Beginner’s Guide to Succulent Care: How to Keep Your Plants Happy and Healthy

Succulents are loved for their unique shapes, vibrant colors, and most of all, their easy-going nature. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or new to the world of greenery, succulents are the perfect plants to add a touch of nature to your home or garden. If you’ve just picked up your first succulent, or you’re looking to improve your succulent care routine, this guide will walk you through the essentials.

Here’s everything you need to know to keep your succulents happy and thriving!

1. Understanding Succulents

Succulents are drought-resistant plants that store water in their thick leaves, stems, or roots. This ability to retain water makes them well-suited to dry, arid climates, and allows them to go long periods without being watered. However, this doesn’t mean they don’t need proper care! Let’s dive into the key components of caring for your succulents.

2. Watering: Less is More

One of the most common mistakes succulent beginners make is overwatering. Since succulents store water in their leaves, they require far less frequent watering than other houseplants. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a quick way to lose your succulent. On the flip side, underwatering can cause the plant to shrivel.

Watering Tips:

Wait for the Soil to Dry: Only water your succulent when the soil is completely dry. Stick your finger an inch into the soil—if it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few more days.
Water Thoroughly: When you do water, give it a good soak. Let the water flow through the soil and out of the drainage holes, and avoid misting the plant. Succulents prefer a deep soak rather than frequent light watering.
Watering Frequency: During the warmer months (spring and summer), water your succulents about once every 1-2 weeks. In the cooler months (fall and winter), cut back to once a month or less, as succulents go into dormancy and require even less water.

3. Light: The Right Amount of Sun

Succulents are sun-loving plants, but they can be sensitive to too much direct sunlight, especially if you’re growing them indoors. The key is finding the right balance of light to keep your succulent looking vibrant and healthy.

Light Requirements:

Bright, Indirect Light: Succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. If you’re keeping your succulent indoors, place it near a window that gets plenty of light throughout the day. A south or east-facing window is ideal.
Avoid Harsh Sunlight: Outdoor succulents should be placed in a spot where they’ll get bright light but avoid harsh, direct sun during the hottest parts of the day, as this can cause sunburn on their leaves.
Signs of Too Much or Too Little Light: If your succulent’s leaves are turning brown or translucent, it could be sunburned. On the other hand, if your plant is stretching and growing tall with gaps between leaves, it’s not getting enough light and is reaching for it.

4. Soil: Well-Draining is Essential

Succulents are very particular about their soil. They need a soil mix that drains quickly to prevent water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to root rot. Using the right type of soil is crucial for succulent care.

Soil Tips:

Use a Cactus/Succulent Mix: Regular potting soil retains too much moisture, so opt for a special cactus or succulent mix that promotes better drainage.
DIY Soil Mix: If you prefer to make your own succulent soil, you can mix regular potting soil with coarse sand and perlite to create a well-draining blend.
Pot with Drainage Holes: Always use pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Succulents don’t like sitting in wet soil for long periods.

5. Repotting: Give Your Succulent Room to Grow

Repotting is an important step in succulent care. Over time, your succulent may outgrow its pot, or the soil may become compacted, affecting drainage. Repotting ensures your succulent has enough space to thrive.

Repotting Tips:

When to Repot: Repot your succulent every 1-2 years, or if you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. Spring and summer are the best times to repot, as this is when succulents are in their active growth phase.
Use the Right Pot: Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the previous one and has drainage holes. Avoid pots that are too large, as they hold more soil and water, which can increase the risk of overwatering.
Handle with Care: Succulents can be delicate when it comes to their roots. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it into the new pot with fresh soil.

6. Temperature and Humidity

Succulents are hardy plants that can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they prefer warm, dry environments. They do not thrive in cold, damp conditions, so it’s important to keep this in mind if you live in a cooler climate.

Temperature Tips:

Ideal Temperature: Succulents prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods, as this can damage the plant.
Keep Indoors During Cold Months: If you have outdoor succulents, bring them indoors when temperatures drop in the fall and winter to protect them from frost.
Low Humidity: Succulents thrive in low-humidity environments. If you live in a humid area, make sure your succulents are in a space with good air circulation, and water them less frequently to prevent excess moisture buildup.

7. Dealing with Pests

Succulents are generally pest-resistant, but they can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like mealybugs or aphids. These pests can weaken your plant if not dealt with quickly.

Pest Control Tips:

Inspect Regularly: Check your succulent’s leaves, particularly underneath, for signs of pests.
Use Rubbing Alcohol: If you spot pests like mealybugs, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and dab it on the affected areas. This will kill the pests without harming the plant.
Maintain Air Circulation: Good air circulation and proper watering will help keep pests at bay.

Final Thoughts

Succulent care doesn’t have to be complicated! By following these basic tips on watering, lighting, soil, and repotting, your succulents will stay healthy and happy. Whether you’re keeping them indoors or outdoors, these resilient plants can thrive with just a little bit of attention. Plus, once you get the hang of it, succulents can bring endless joy and beauty to your home.

Looking for more tips or new additions to your succulent collection? Check out our wide range of high-quality succulents here and start growing your indoor jungle today!