How To Water Succulents

Learning how to water succulents is the single most important skill for keeping these popular plants alive and thriving. Many new plant owners get it wrong, but with a few simple principles, you can master their care. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to water your succulents perfectly every time.

Succulents store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, which is what gives them their plump, full appearance. This adaptation allows them to survive in arid environments. However, in our homes, this means they have very different needs than your typical houseplant. Overwatering is the fastest way to harm them, while underwatering is usually an easy fix.

This core method is often called the “Soak and Dry” method. It mimics the natural rainfall patterns succulents are used to in their native habitats. The goal is to completely saturate the soil, then let it dry out fully before even thinking about water again.

The Golden Rule: When to Water

Do not water on a schedule. Forget “once a week.” Instead, water only when the soil is completely dry. The best way to check this is the finger test. Stick your finger about two inches into the soil. If you feel any dampness or coolness at all, wait. If it’s completely dry, it’s time.

Another great indicator is the look of the leaves. A well-hydrated succulent has firm, plump leaves. When it’s thirsty, the leaves may start to look slightly wrinkled, thinner, or feel softer to the touch. It’s better to wait for these slight signs than to water early.

The Right Way to Do It: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these numbered steps whenever your plant signals it’s ready for a drink.

Check the Soil: Confirm the soil is 100% dry using the finger test. Don’t skip this step, even if you think it’s been long enough.
Choose Your Water: Use room-temperature water. Cold water can shock the roots. If you can, use filtered or rainwater, as some succulents are sensitive to minerals in tap water, but tap water is fine for most.
Water Thoroughly: Take your plant to the sink or use a watering can with a long spout. Pour water evenly over the soil until it runs freely out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root ball gets moisture.
Let it Drain: Leave the plant in the sink or on a drain rack for at least 15-20 minutes. Let all excess water drip out. Never let your succulent sit in a saucer of standing water—this leads to root rot.
Return to Its Spot: Once fully drained, place the plant back in its bright, sunny location.

Choosing the Perfect Pot and Soil

Your watering success depends heavily on the pot and soil you use. They work together to create the right environment for the roots.

Pot Must-Haves: Always use a pot with a drainage hole. This is non-negotiable. Terracotta pots are excellent because they are porous and allow the soil to dry out faster than plastic or ceramic pots.
Soil is Key: Regular potting soil holds too much moisture. You need a fast-draining succulent or cactus mix. For even better drainage, you can amend a store-bought mix with perlite or pumice (about a 50/50 ratio).

Seasonal Watering Adjustments

Succulents have active and dormant growing seasons, and their water needs change.

In spring and summer (active growth), they will need water more frequently as they are growing and using more energy. You might find the soil dries out quicker.

In fall and winter (dormancy), their growth slows way down. They will need water much less often—sometimes as little as once a month or even less. Always rely on the dry soil test, not the calendar.

Spotting and Fixing Watering Problems

Here’s how to diagnose common issues related to watering.

Signs of Overwatering

This is the most common problem. Signs include:
– Yellow, translucent, mushy leaves that may fall off at a touch.
– Black or brown, soft stems or leaves.
– The plant looks generally unwell while the soil is still wet.

Fix: Stop watering immediately. Let the soil dry out completely. If the stem is soft or rotting, you may need to cut off the healthy top part and re-propogate it. Ensure the pot has drainage and the soil is gritty enough.

Signs of Underwatering

While less dangerous, it still happens. Signs include:
– Dry, crispy, or shriveled leaves, usually starting at the bottom.
– Slow growth or leaf drop (though some leaf drop is normal).
– The entire plant may look deflated or wrinkled.

Fix: Give the plant a thorough soak using the step-by-step method above. It should plump back up within a few days. Underwatered succulents recover much better than overwatered ones.

Special Cases and Tips

Watering Propagated Babies: For leaf or stem cuttings, mist the soil lightly every few days until roots establish. Once they have a small rosette, you can begin light watering, transitioning to the “soak and dry” method as they grow.
Outdoor vs. Indoor Succulents: Outdoor succulents, especially in hot, dry climates, may need more frequent watering than indoor ones due to sun and wind. Always use the soil test.
Bottom Watering: You can place your pot in a tray of water and let the soil soak it up from the bottom for about 15 minutes. This encourages deep root growth. Just remember to remove it and let it drain afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I water my succulent?
There’s no set schedule. Water only when the soil is completely dry, which could be every 7-14 days in warm months or every 3-4 weeks in winter. Always check first.

Can I use a spray bottle to water my succulents?
No, misting is not a sufficient watering method for established succulents. It only dampens the top layer of soil and can cause weak roots. Deep, thorough watering is essential.

What’s the best time of day to water succulents?
Morning is ideal. This allows any accidental water on the leaves to evaporate during the day, reducing the risk of sunburn or rot. Evening watering leaves the plant damp overnight, which can invite fungal issues.

How do I know if my succulent needs water?
Use the finger test (dry soil 2 inches down) and look for visual cues like slightly wrinkled or softer leaves. The pot will also feel very light when the soil is dry.

Why is my succulent dying even though I water it?
This is almost always due to overwatering and/or poor drainage. Check that your pot has a hole and that you’re using gritty soil. The plant may be sitting in wet soil for to long, causing root rot.

Mastering how to water succulents takes the mystery out of their care. Remember the core mantra: soak the soil completely, then let it dry out fully. By paying attention to your plant’s signals and providing the right pot and soil setup, you’ll have happy, healthy succulents for years to come. Their resilience is part of there charm, so don’t be afraid to learn as you go.