How Often Should You Water Newly Planted Succulents

If you are new to planting succulents, you might wonder how often you should water them. Succulents are known for their ability to store water in their leaves, stems, and roots, but too much or too little water can be harmful to them. Watering frequency depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of succulent, the size of the pot, and the environment they are growing in. In this article, we will discuss some general guidelines to help you determine the best watering schedule for your newly planted succulents.

Factors Affecting Watering Frequency

Several factors can affect how often you water your newly planted succulents. These include:

Type of Succulent: Different types of succulents have different water needs. Some succulents, such as cacti, prefer dry soil and can go weeks without water. Other succulents, such as Haworthias, prefer moist soil and should be watered more often.

Size of Pot: The size of the pot also affects how often you should water your succulents. Smaller pots dry out faster than larger ones, so succulents in small pots may need to be watered more frequently. However, it is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Environmental Factors: The climate you live in, as well as the environment your succulents are growing in, can also affect watering frequency. Succulents growing in hot, dry climates may need to be watered more often than those growing in cooler, more humid environments.

Guidelines for Watering Succulents

While different succulents have different water needs, there are some general guidelines you can follow to determine how often to water your newly planted succulents. These include:

Observe the Soil: One way to determine if your succulents need water is to check the soil. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it's time to water. If it feels moist, you can wait a few more days before watering.

Look for Signs of Thirst: Another way to tell if your succulents need water is to look for signs of thirst. Some signs that your succulents are thirsty include wrinkled leaves or a droopy appearance.

Water Deeply: When you do water your succulents, it is important to water deeply. This means watering until water comes out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the water reaches the roots, which is where it is needed most.

Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering is a common mistake when it comes to caring for succulents. It is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between watering to prevent root rot.

Conclusion

Watering frequency for succulents depends on various factors, including the type of succulent, pot size, and environment. While observing the soil and looking for signs of thirst can help determine when to water, it is important not to overwater and to ensure that the water reaches the roots. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your newly planted succulents remain healthy and vibrant.