Hey everyone! My partner just got really into succulents for their birthday, and while we've both loved them, we haven't had the best track record in taking care of plants before. I'm worried that we might be giving them too little or too much water, especially since our last efforts ended poorly. The succulents we just got were super dry right after we got them, so I watered them gently. But now, just a few days later, the soil looks dry again, with cracks forming. I'm really anxious about overwatering because I suspect root rot might be our enemy from past experiences. Any tips on how to care for them properly and avoid these issues?
3 Answers
First off, don't stress too much! Succulents tend to be pretty resilient. When it comes to watering, it's all about the soil. If it's bone dry, definitely soak them! Try bottom watering—as in, placing the pots in a bowl of water for a bit so the soil can absorb it. This helps avoid dry patches on the top. Just keep an eye on the leaves; when they start to look wrinkly, that's a sign they need some water. But remember, too much moisture can lead to root rot, so it's better to let them dry out a little between waterings. Good luck! You've got this! ?
Yeah, for sure! As long as you have good drainage in your pots, you can be a little more generous with watering.
I definitely relate to the struggle with root rot; it can feel like a nightmare! If you can share pictures of your succulents and their soil setup, that’ll help get better advice. Remember, ruling out root rot is key, so if you feel it's too moist, consider repotting in fresh, dry soil and let them sit out for a bit before watering again. They thrive on neglect!
I agree with this! Sometimes just a change in soil can do wonders for them.
Absolutely! And keeping them on the dry side is usually safer than overwatering.
One thing I learned is that regular potting soil is a no-go for succulents! You gotta use a cactus mix or make your own by mixing regular soil with something gritty like pumice or perlite. This helps with drainage. Also, be mindful of the light—make sure they're getting enough sunlight, too! That's super important for their health. Keep an eye on moisture levels and remember: it’s okay to let them dry out completely between waterings. You got this! ?
Exactly! And if you notice the leaves looking too soft or squishy, it might be time to hold off on watering for a bit.
Right! And don’t forget, some varieties might go dormant in winter, so adjust your watering schedule then!
Absolutely! Drainage is key—it'll help protect against that pesky root rot.