How to Water Succulents - Everything You Need To Know!

Succulents are extremely drought-tolerant plants that can survive for long periods without water. In fact, succulents are designed to thrive in conditions with infrequent rainfall, making them perfect for forgetful gardeners or those who tend to underwater. Their ability to store water in their leaves and stems allows them to withstand neglect and survive with minimal moisture, making them incredibly resilient. However, this doesn't mean they don't need water at all!

To properly water succulents, use the "soak and dry" method: thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.

In fact, proper watering is crucial for succulents to grow and flourish. But how do you know when to water, and how much is too much? With their delicate balance of water storage and drought tolerance, succulents require a thoughtful approach to watering.

In this article, we'll explore the tips and tricks of watering succulents, covering everything from spotting the signs of thirst to avoiding the pitfalls of overwatering.

How Much Water Do Succulent Needs?

Succulents are like camels—they absorb water quickly and store it in their leaves, stems, and roots, allowing them to go long periods without needing more. Because of this, they thrive best with the soak-and-dry method—water deeply until excess drains out, then wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. Overwatering is a common mistake, leading to root rot, while underwatering can cause wrinkled or shriveled leaves. Finding the right balance is essential, as succulents need deep but infrequent watering to stay healthy and thrive in dry conditions.

The 2 Best Watering Practices for Thriving Succulent Plants

1. Soak and Dry Method: The "Soak and Dry" method is one of the most effective techniques for watering succulents. This method involves thoroughly soaking the soil until water drains out from the bottom of the pot, then allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Don't water unless the soil is dry—you can check this using the two-finger technique by inserting your fingers about an inch into the soil to feel for moisture. The key to this technique is to mimic the natural rainfall patterns in the succulent's native environment, where they experience periods of heavy rain followed by long dry spells. By letting the soil dry out between waterings, you encourage the plant’s roots to grow deeper, searching for moisture, which leads to a stronger and more resilient root system. This method also prevents the roots from sitting in water, reducing the risk of root rot.

2. Bottom Watering: Bottom watering involves placing the plant pot in a shallow tray of water and allowing the soil to absorb water through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot.

This method is particularly useful for succulents that are sensitive to wet leaves or stems, as it ensures the roots receive moisture without soaking the upper parts of the plant.

To use this method, fill a tray with water and place the pot in it for about 15-30 minutes or until the soil’s top layer feels moist. Bottom watering is ideal when the soil has become compacted or if you notice the water isn’t penetrating the soil evenly from the top. It also promotes deep root growth by encouraging the roots to reach downward for water.

How long can Succulents go without water? 

Succulents can survive 1 to 3 months without water, depending on factors such as species, size, and environmental conditions. During the dormant season (fall and winter), succulents can often survive for 2-4 months without water. However, it's always best to water your succulents when the soil feels dry to the touch to ensure they receive the moisture they need to thrive.

The Art of Watering Succulents is Striking a Balance Between Underwatering and Overwatering

Succulents are unique in their ability to store water, but this characteristic can lead to confusion when it comes to finding the right watering balance.

Underwatering Succulent: Signs & Treatments

Underwatering occurs when your succulent plants do not receive enough water over an extended period. Because succulents store water in their leaves, stems, and roots, they can survive on limited moisture, but they still require regular watering to maintain their health. While succulents are drought-tolerant, consistent underwatering can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to damage or disease.

Wrinkled or shriveled leaves: These are a clear indication of underwatering. When succulents lack water, their leaves lose their plumpness and firm texture, becoming wrinkled and creased. Water your succulent thoroughly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Increase the frequency of watering, but ensure the soil has a chance to dry out slightly between waterings.

Limp or Squishy Leaves: These are a sign of severe underwatering. When leaves become soft and limp, they are prone to rot and damage. Water your succulent immediately, and consider repotting it in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce the frequency of watering, but ensure the soil remains moist.

Slow Growth or No Growth: It is a sign that your succulent is not receiving enough water. Underwatered succulents conserve energy and resources, leading to stunted growth. Increase the frequency of watering, and ensure the soil is consistently moist. Provide your succulent with bright, indirect light and maintain optimal temperatures to promote healthy growth.

Leaves Develop Brown Tips or Edges: Brown tips or edges on leaves indicate dehydration and stress. When succulents lack water, their leaves develop brown, crispy edges. Trim off the brown tips or edges to prevent further damage. Water your succulent thoroughly, and adjust the frequency of watering to prevent future underwatering.

Soil Feels Extremely Dry: When the soil feels extremely dry, it's a clear sign that your succulent needs water. Water your succulent thoroughly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil regularly to ensure it doesn't become too dry or waterlogged.

Overwatering Succulent: Signs & Treatments

Overwatering occurs when these plants receive too much water, either from excessive watering frequency or inadequate drainage. Unlike typical houseplants, succulents are adapted to store water in their leaves, stems, and roots, which means they need less frequent watering. When overwatered, the soil remains consistently moist, preventing the roots from drying out properly.

Black or Brown Spots: These spots on leaves or stems indicate fungal diseases caused by overwatering. Remove affected leaves or stems, and treat the succulent with a fungicide. Adjust watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation to prevent further moisture buildup.

Waterlogged Soil: It is a clear indication of overwatering. When the soil is consistently waterlogged, roots rot, and succulents become susceptible to disease. Stop watering immediately, and repot the succulent in fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure good air circulation to prevent further moisture buildup.

Soft, Mushy Stems: These are signs of severe overwatering. When stems become soft and mushy, they are prone to rot and collapse. Cut off the affected stems, and repot the succulent in fresh, well-drained succulent soil. Reduce watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation.

Yellowing or Droopy Leaves: These leaves indicate too much water. When leaves turn yellow or droop, it's a sign that the roots are rotting. Remove yellow or droopy leaves, and adjust watering frequency. Ensure the soil has a chance to dry out slightly between waterings.

Root Rot: It is a common consequence of overwatering. When roots rot, succulents become susceptible to disease and pests. Repot the succulent in fresh, well-drained soil, and trim away affected roots. Reduce watering frequency, balance soil moisture, and ensure good air circulation.

By understanding this balance, you can ensure your succulents receive just the right amount of moisture.

Detailed Succulent Plant Watering Requirements

Always check to see if the soil is completely dry, but the general rule is to wait until the soil is dry before watering. When it comes to watering your succulent plants, they need a balance of moisture and dryness, making watering a delicate task. With their unique ability to store water, succulents have distinct needs that set them apart from other plants. Understanding their watering requirements is crucial for their survival and success.

1. How Often to Water Succulents - Based on Location

The watering schedule for succulents depends largely on their location, as environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure play significant roles in determining their water needs. Whether succulents are grown indoors or outdoors, the goal is to replicate the natural conditions they are adapted to, which typically involve infrequent but deep watering followed by periods of dryness.

Indoor Growing Succulent Watering Needs

• Watering Frequency: When growing succulents indoors, it is crucial to understand their specific watering needs. Indoor plants generally require less frequent watering than those grown outdoors due to the stable, controlled environment. Indoor spaces typically have lower light levels and less airflow, which means the soil takes longer to dry out.
  
  A good rule of thumb is to water succulent plants only when the top 2 inches of soil is dry; which is usually every 2 to 4 weeks. During winter, when indoor succulents may enter a dormant phase, reduce watering even further.
• Consider the Environment: Factors like the type of pot, humidity levels, and indoor heating can affect how often your indoor succulents need water.
  
  Pots without drainage holes or made from materials like plastic can retain moisture longer, so be mindful of overwatering.

Additionally, in drier indoor environments, such as those with central heating, succulents may need slightly more frequent watering.

Outdoor Growing Succulent Watering Needs

2. When to Water Succulents - Based on Seasons

Tap Water vs. Filtered Water: What's Best for Succulents?

Water quality plays an essential role in the health of your succulents. While succulents can be relatively hardy, the type of water you use can impact their growth, appearance, and overall well-being.

Tap water is generally safe for most succulents, filtered water offers a cleaner alternative that can help prevent potential issues caused by mineral buildup and chemicals. If you notice white spots or deposits on your succulents, or if you are growing particularly delicate varieties, switching to filtered water might be worth considering. Alternatively, you can also use rainwater to give your succulent plant the best care possible. Rainwater is ideal for plants because it contains healthy minerals and is safe to drink due to impurities being removed. 

Use Fast-Draining Soil to Prevent Overwatering

The type of soil plays a crucial role in succulent care, as succulents do not tolerate heavy, water-retaining soils. Well-draining soil prevents water from sitting around the roots, reducing the risk of rot. In contrast, soils that hold excess moisture may require less frequent watering, but this is not beneficial—it can suffocate roots and lead to waterlogged conditions.

Soil structure and composition also affect watering needs. Compacted soils with fine particles restrict drainage and airflow, increasing the likelihood of root rot. Instead, a loose, well-aerated mix allows for proper drainage and encourages healthy root growth.

Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive. 

The Importance of Proper Watering for Succulents

• Prevents Overwatering: The adequate watering helps prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot, fungal infections, and even death. Outdoor plants generally require more water than indoor plants, and this is especially true for succulents.
• Supports Physiological Processes: Watering succulent plants correctly allows them to absorb the right amount of moisture to carry out their physiological processes, such as photosynthesis, growth, and reproduction.
• Maintains Structural Integrity: Proper watering helps maintain the structural integrity of succulents, keeping their leaves and stems firm and plump, and preventing them from becoming shriveled and weak.
• Reduces Stress:  The balanced watering reduces stress on succulents, making them less susceptible to pests and diseases. This also helps the plants thrive and maintain their vibrant colors.

Final Thoughts

Overall, watering succulents is an art that requires patience, observation, and a gentle touch. You should be peculiar about your succulent's watering cycles so they can survive happily indoors and outdoors. When the soil becomes dry, it is the best to water your plants. By understanding the unique needs of these drought-tolerant plants, you can provide them with the perfect balance of moisture and dryness. Remember, it's not about frequent watering, but about thoughtful and intentional hydration. With the right approach, your succulents will thrive, and you'll be rewarded with their stunning shapes, vibrant colors, and low-maintenance charm.