Should You Water a Newly Planted Succulent?

Succulents are one of the most popular houseplants around the world, owing to their unique and attractive appearances. Whether you're looking to adorn your home or office space, succulents are a great option. That said, newly planted succulents require extra care and attention, and one of the biggest questions that come up is whether or not to water them. In this article, we'll answer this question, so keep reading!

Understanding Succulents

Before discussing whether you should water newly planted succulents, it's essential to understand what they are and how they grow. Succulents are plants that have thick, fleshy, and water-storing leaves, stems, and roots. They are naturally adapted to hot and dry climates and can survive for long periods without water.

With this in mind, it's important to note that overwatering is the most common cause of death in succulents. This is because they are adapted to storing water, and their roots are prone to rotting when subjected to excessive moisture. Therefore, it's more appropriate to underwater succulents than to overwater them, especially when they're newly planted.

When to Water Newly Planted Succulents

When planting a new succulent, you need to prepare its potting mix and ensure that it has adequate drainage holes. The best time to water a newly planted succulent is after a few days when it has adjusted to its new environment. This is because overwatering can stress the plant and increase the risk of root rot.

However, if the succulent starts showing signs of dehydration, such as droopy leaves or wrinkled stems, it's time to water it. In this case, you should ensure that the soil is completely dry before watering it. Additionally, make sure to water the plant thoroughly, so that the soil is fully soaked. Once this is done, let the soil dry completely before watering it again.

How to Water Newly Planted Succulents

The best way to water a newly planted succulent is by the soak and dry method. This involves watering the plant until the soil is sufficiently wet and then letting it dry out completely before watering it again. To ensure that you're not overwatering the plant, you can use a moisture meter or stick your finger into the soil to check its dryness.

If you're unsure of whether or not to water a newly planted succulent, it's always better to err on the side of caution and wait a few more days. This gives the plant an opportunity to settle in and adjust to its new environment. Once the succulent has established its roots and is growing healthily, you can then adjust its watering schedule to suit its specific needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, succulents are unique and beautiful plants that require specific conditions to thrive. New succulents need a little extra care and attention, especially when it comes to watering. It's best to underwater them than to overwater them, use the soak and dry method, and give them adequate time to adjust to their new environment. By following these tips, you'll be able to grow healthy and beautiful succulents that will brighten up your environment.