As a succulent enthusiast, there's nothing more heartbreaking than watching your beloved plant wither away due to underwatering. However, don't lose hope just yet! With the right care and attention, you can still revive your dying succulent and bring it back to its former glory. In this article, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to identify, treat, and prevent underwatering in succulents.
Table of Contents
Identifying an Underwatered Succulent
Before we dive into the rescue mission, it's essential to identify the signs of an underwatered succulent. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms:
• Wrinkled, shriveled, or puckered leaves: This is often the first sign of underwatering, as the plant begins to conserve water by reducing the size of its leaves.
• Soft, mushy, or brittle stems: A healthy succulent stem should be firm and sturdy. If it feels soft or mushy, it may be a sign of underwatering.
• Leaf drop: As the plant becomes more stressed, it may start to drop its leaves to conserve energy and water.
• Discoloration: Underwatered succulents may develop yellow, brown, or grayish hues, especially on the lower leaves.
The Consequences of Underwatering
Underwatering can have severe consequences for your succulent, including:
• Reduced growth: Succulents need water to grow and thrive. Without it, they may become stunted or stop growing altogether.
• Increased susceptibility to disease: Weakened succulents are more prone to fungal infections, root rot, and other diseases.
• Permanent damage: If left untreated, underwatering can cause permanent damage to the plant's roots, stems, or leaves.
How to Water an Underwatered Succulent
Now that you've identified the problem, it's time to take action. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to water your underwatered succulent:
• Water sparingly: Start by giving your succulent a small amount of water, just enough to moisten the soil. This will help prevent overwhelming the roots and causing further stress.
• Check the soil: Before watering again, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water again.
• Water thoroughly: Once the soil is dry, water your succulent thoroughly, making sure the pot drains well to prevent waterlogged soil.
• Monitor and adjust: Keep a close eye on your succulent's response to watering, and adjust your watering schedule as needed.
Reviving the Roots
Underwatering can cause significant damage to the roots of your succulent. To revive them, try the following:
• Prune dead roots: Use a pair of sterile scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged roots. This will help prevent the spread of disease and encourage new growth.
• Repot with fresh soil: Transplant your succulent into a well-draining potting mix, taking care not to disturb the roots too much.
• Provide humidity: Mist the soil and surrounding area with water daily to create a humid microclimate, which can help stimulate root growth.
Nourishing Your Succulent
While your succulent is recovering, it's essential to provide it with the necessary nutrients for growth and recovery. Consider:
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength to provide your succulent with a nutrient boost.
• Providing indirect sunlight: Move your succulent to a spot with bright, indirect sunlight to promote photosynthesis and growth.
Preventing Future Underwatering
To avoid future underwatering, make sure to:
• Water consistently: Establish a regular watering schedule, taking into account the climate, soil type, and pot size.
• Monitor soil moisture: Regularly check the soil moisture to ensure it's not too dry or too wet.
• Choose the right pot: Select a pot with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When reviving an underwatered succulent, it's essential to avoid common mistakes that can exacerbate the problem:
• Overwatering: Avoid giving your succulent too much water, as this can lead to root rot and further stress.
• Ignoring the signs: Don't ignore the signs of underwatering, as this can lead to permanent damage or even death.
• Not adjusting for climate: Failing to adjust your watering schedule according to the climate can lead to underwatering or overwatering.
Conclusion
Reviving an underwatered succulent requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can help your succulent recover and thrive once again. Remember to monitor your plant's progress, adjust your care routine as needed, and provide the necessary nutrients for growth and recovery. With time and care, your succulent will be back to its beautiful, plump self in no time.
At Botanic Beam, we're committed to providing you with the most in-depth information on plant care. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us. Happy planting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs of an underwatered succulent?
An underwatered succulent typically exhibits signs such as wrinkled or shriveled leaves, stems that have become soft and mushy, and a general loss of plumpness. The leaves may also start to pucker or develop brown spots. In severe cases, the plant may start to drop its leaves or produce new growth that is weak and spindly.
How often should I water my succulent?
The frequency of watering depends on the type of succulent, the size of the pot, the climate, and the time of year. As a general rule, water your succulent when the soil feels dry to the touch, usually every 7-10 days in the summer and less often in the winter. It's better to err on the side of caution and underwater than to overwater.
What is the best way to water my succulent?
Water your succulent thoroughly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves to prevent rot. Use room-temperature water, and avoid getting water on the crown of the plant (where the leaves meet the stem).
How can I tell if my succulent is thirsty?
Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. You can also lift the pot to gauge the weight of the soil; a dry pot will be much lighter than a wet one.
Why is my succulent dying despite regular watering?
Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot and kill your succulent. Check for signs of overwatering, such as soft, mushy stems, yellowing leaves, and a sour or unpleasant smell from the soil. Reduce watering frequency and ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.
Can I revive an underwatered succulent?
Yes, it's possible to revive an underwatered succulent. Start by giving the plant a good soaking, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Then, reduce watering frequency to prevent further stress. Provide bright, indirect light, and maintain a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). With proper care, your succulent should recover.
How long does it take for a succulent to recover from underwatering?
The recovery time depends on the severity of the underwatering and the overall health of the plant. With proper care, a mildly underwatered succulent may recover within a few weeks. However, if the plant is severely stressed, it may take several months for it to fully recover.
Why do succulents need less water than other plants?
Succulents have adapted to survive in dry, arid environments with limited water availability. They store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, allowing them to survive for extended periods without water. This unique adaptation makes them more drought-tolerant than other plants.
Can I use tap water to water my succulent?
Tap water can be used to water your succulent, but it's essential to check the water quality in your area. Tap water may contain high levels of fluoride, chlorine, or other chemicals that can harm your succulent. Consider using filtered or distilled water to ensure the best results.
How often should I fertilize my succulent?
Fertilize your succulent during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter) when the plant is not actively growing.
What are the best potting mixes for succulents?
Look for potting mixes specifically designed for cacti and succulents. These mixes typically contain a blend of perlite, vermiculite, and sand, which provide good drainage and aeration. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much water and cause root rot.
How can I prevent root rot in my succulent?
Prevent root rot by ensuring good drainage, avoiding overwatering, and providing adequate air circulation. Use a well-draining potting mix, and make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating in the soil.
Can I propagate an underwatered succulent?
Yes, you can propagate an underwatered succulent, but it's essential to wait until the plant has recovered and is healthy enough to produce new growth. Take leaf or stem cuttings, and allow them to dry for a few days to form a callus before planting.
Why is my succulent not growing new leaves?
Lack of growth can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or inadequate light. Ensure your succulent is receiving bright, indirect light, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Fertilize during the growing season, and prune dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.
How can I tell if my succulent is pot-bound?
Check for signs of pot-bound roots, such as slow growth, yellowing leaves, or roots growing out of the drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its pot, and inspect the roots. If they're circling or tangled, it's time to transplant your succulent into a larger pot with fresh potting mix.
Can I use a humidifier to help my succulent recover?
While succulents prefer dry air, a humidifier can help maintain a consistent humidity level, especially in dry environments. However, be cautious not to create a humid microclimate that can lead to root rot or other problems.
Why is my succulent developing brown spots?
Brown spots can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or fungal infections. Check the soil moisture, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Remove any affected leaves or stems, and treat the plant with a fungicide if necessary.
Can I save a succulent with root rot?
It's challenging to save a succulent with advanced root rot, but you can try to rescue it by removing the affected roots, repotting the plant in fresh potting mix, and reducing watering frequency. However, prevention is key, so ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering in the first place.
How can I prevent pests from infesting my succulent?
Check your succulent regularly for signs of pests, such as mealybugs, spider mites, or scale. Isolate new plants, and avoid overwatering, which can attract pests. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations, and maintain good air circulation to prevent pest problems.
Can I grow succulents outdoors?
Yes, many succulent species can thrive outdoors in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. However, protect your succulents from extreme temperatures, frost, and intense rainfall. Bring them indoors during the winter months or provide adequate protection.
How can I prune my succulent to encourage new growth?
Prune your succulent to maintain shape, encourage new growth, and remove dead or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, and make cuts just above a leaf node. This will encourage the plant to produce new growth from that point.
What are the most common mistakes when caring for succulents?
Common mistakes include overwatering, underwatering, inadequate light, poor drainage, and neglecting to fertilize. Be mindful of your succulent's needs, and adjust your care routine accordingly to ensure the best results.
Can I grow succulents in low-light conditions?
While succulents prefer bright, indirect light, some species can tolerate low-light conditions. However, low light can lead to weak, spindly growth. If you must grow succulents in low light, choose species that are adapted to shade, such as Aloe or Echeveria.
How can I create a succulent arrangement?
Choose a variety of succulent species with different textures, colors, and shapes. Plant them in a well-draining potting mix, and arrange them in a visually appealing way. Add decorative rocks or pebbles to enhance the display, and ensure good air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.