How to Water Succulents: 8 Steps
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Introduction: Succulents are beautiful, low-maintenance plants that come in a variety of shapes and colors. One of the most crucial aspects of succulent care is learning how to water them properly. These plants are drought-tolerant, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need water. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to water succulents to encourage their growth and maintain their health.
Step 1: Determine When to Water
The first step is knowing when your succulent needs water. Succulents store energy in their leaves, allowing them to thrive in arid environments. Make sure the soil is completely dry before considering watering, as overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
Step 2: Check the Soil
Stick your finger one inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water your succulent. If there’s still moisture at that depth, hold off for a few more days and check again later.
Step 3: Use the Right Type of Water
Avoid using tap water containing chlorine or other chemicals that can be harmful to your plants. Instead, opt for filtered or rainwater to best nourish your succulents.
Step 4: Choose the Right Container
A well-draining container is vital for succulent health. When selecting a pot for your plant, make sure there is at least one drainage hole at the bottom. This allows excess water to escape and keeps your succulent from sitting in soggy soil.
Step 5: Soak, Don’t Spray
Spraying succulents with a fine mist can lead to rot or uneven watering. Instead, soak the soil around the plant by slowly pouring water onto it until you see moisture coming out of the bottom drainage hole.
Step 6: Wait for Water Absorption
Wait about ten minutes for the plant to absorb water from the soil. If there’s still a significant amount of water left on the surface, pour it out to avoid overwatering.
Step 7: Drain Excess Water
Empty any standing water from the saucer under your pot. It’s crucial not to let your succulents sit in a pool of water as this will lead to root rot and other issues.
Step 8: Monitor Your Succulent for Signs of Over or Under Watering
Keep an eye on your succulent after watering. If you notice puckered or flat-looking leaves, your plant may need more water. Brown or yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, so adjust accordingly.
Conclusion:
With these eight steps in mind, you’ll be able to provide your succulents with the proper care they need to thrive. Remember that succulents are drought-tolerant plants, and it’s always better to under-water than over-water them. With the right balance, your succulents will flourish and add beauty to your home or garden.