Watering Succulent Plants: How Often Should You Do It?

One of the most common mistakes that new succulent plant owners make is overwatering. Succulents are a special type of plant that is adapted to survive in dry environments with limited water. So, if you water them too often, their roots may become too wet, and they may start to rot. In this article, we will discuss how often you should water your succulent plants, and what factors you need to consider before deciding on a watering schedule.

The Type of Succulent Matters

Before anything else, you need to understand that succulent plants come in different types, and each type has its own watering needs. Some succulents, such as cacti and agave plants, are native to hot and windy desert environments, and they require less water than other succulent plants that are adapted to more humid climates, like Sempervivum and Echeveria.

So, before you start watering your succulent plant, research the type of succulent you have and learn about its natural habitat. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions about how often to water your plant.

The Soil and Environment are Also Important

In addition to the type of succulent you have, other factors that can influence how often you should water include the type of soil you use, the size of the pot, the amount of sunlight the plant gets, and the humidity levels in the room.

If you are using a well-draining soil mix for your succulent, you may not need to water as often as if you were using a soil that retains more moisture. Similarly, if your succulent is in a large pot, it may require less frequent watering than a plant in a small container.

If your succulent is in a hot and dry environment, it may need more water than if it were in a cooler, more humid room. Finally, if you live in a dry and arid area, you may need to water your succulent more often than if you lived in a place with a more temperate climate.

How Often Should You Water Your Succulent?

Given all these variables, it's hard to give a definite answer to the question of how often to water your succulent. However, as a general rule of thumb, most succulent plants should be watered once every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and less often during the dormant season (fall and winter).

During the summer months, when succulents are actively growing, you may need to water more often, especially if the weather is hot and dry. However, during the winter months, you should reduce your watering frequency since the plant is in a dormant state and does not require as much water.

How Do You Know When to Water Your Succulent?

To know when it's time to water your succulent, you should check the soil's moisture level using a moisture meter or by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. If the soil is very dry, then it's time to water your plant.

Another way to tell when your succulent needs water is by looking at its leaves. If the leaves are wrinkled, flat, or feel dry and papery to the touch, it's a sign that the plant is thirsty and needs water.

On the other hand, if the leaves are plump, firm, and shiny, it means the plant is well-hydrated, and you don't need to water it yet.

The Bottom Line

In summary, watering your succulent plant is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It depends on the type of succulent, the soil and environment, and the season. As a general rule of thumb, most succulent plants should be watered once every two to three weeks during the growing season and less often in the dormant season. However, you should monitor your plant's moisture level and adjust your watering frequency accordingly.