5 Mistakes People Make With Succulents

Succulents are known for being easy-care plants that anyone can grow. However, that doesn't mean you can just set them on a table and forget all about them. Although they are easy to grow, mini succulents still require some attention to keep them looking their best. Your succulents might not thrive if they aren't getting enough attention. They can seem indestructible, and people tend to neglect them. However, there are some conditions in which these plants cannot survive.

Make sure they are happy and healthy by not making these mistakes (and fixing the errors you're already making).

 

Containers without drainage

 

Although it's tempting to plant cute succulents in fun containers, if your new echeveria is placed in a small ceramic pot that doesn't allow water to drain, it won't work out well as succulents prefer their soil to be dry. Containers with no drainage holes increase your chances of overwatering your plants since moisture will pool in the bottom and drown the plant's roots.

 

You shouldn't put pebbles on the bottom of a pot that doesn't have holes either. It hinders drainage and prevents water from escaping the soil - because the soil will retain the excess water rather than allow it to pass through the pebbles Also, rocks elevate the soil layer that is soggy and overwatered, making it closer to the roots and crown, which can lead the succulents to rot.

 

All this can be fixed by placing your mini succulent in a smaller container with drainage holes and then placing it in the beautiful hole-less container you want to use.

 

Misting instead of watering

 

As succulents do not require much water to survive, there is a myth that misting them is an excellent way to avoid overwatering. For plants that need extra humidity, such as ferns, air plants and tropical indoor plants, misting the leaves can be a great way to keep them happy. But for succulents, it can cause damage and even cause them to rot. Instead, you can use a container with drainage and a succulent potting mix, then give them a good soaking after the soil is completely dry.

 

Not watering enough

 

Although succulents can survive without water for weeks or even months, it doesn't mean they don't need it altogether. Succulents can survive drought by storing extra water in their roots and leaves, but if your plants are left without water for more than a week, they will start to fade and eventually drop their leaves.

 

Instead, pay more attention to the soil. It's time for watering when it is dry. You can test it by sticking your finger in the pot; if you feel moisture, wait a few days before watering again. You can also use an inexpensive moisture meter. Give your plant a good soak if the soil is dry. Always let the excess water drain, and never leave the pot in a puddle. You should also avoid leaving water on the leaves as this can lead to rot; use a towel or a cloth to remove any water droplets.

 

Not giving them enough sunlight

 

Succulents are desert plants, and most of them require a lot of direct sunlight or bright light to thrive. However, their reputation for being tough houseplants means they can be grown anywhere, even in dim rooms without much natural light. Although some succulents can tolerate low light conditions, most thrive in brighter lighting.

 

Succulents can lose their colour quickly if they don't get enough light. They also tend to become leggy, which means that their stems will stretch to seek the light.

 

Planting too many together or with non-succulents

 

Although many beautiful succulent arrangements exist, most will not survive beyond a few years. Succulents can survive in tight spaces better than other plants, but eventually, they will start competing for water, soil nutrients, and space. So, do not put them all together and avoid planting succulents together with plants that require different care. Planting a drought-tolerant plant in the same moist soil-loving container as a fern will damage both plants. A dish garden is an excellent option for long-term succulent arrangements. You can still plant multiple plants in one container while giving them enough room to thrive.

Summing up

Keeping your succulents healthy and growing is easy when you avoid all the above-mentioned mistakes. And if you are searching for some beautiful potted succulents online, look no further than Sara's Garden, the one-stop shop for all your green gifting needs.