Maegan-Leigh JacobsSucculents are popular for their ability to thrive with minimal care, especially when it comes to watering. These resilient plants, which hail from arid regions, store water in their thick leaves, allowing them to go longer without being watered. But just how often should you water them to keep them healthy?
The golden rule for watering succulents is simple: Water only when the soil is completely dry. If the soil still feels even slightly damp, hold off on watering.
Succulents prefer their soil to be bone dry between waterings, unlike many other houseplants that need constant moisture. Watering too frequently can lead to root rot, which can kill your succulent.
Succulents are a fantastic way to bring a touch of natural beauty and modern design to your space. Their unique shapes and subtle colours make them a trendy choice for any room.
Factors that affect how often to water succulents
1. Seasonal changes
During the warmer months of spring and summer, succulents enter their growing phase, requiring more frequent watering. You might find yourself watering them a few times a week as they absorb moisture to support new growth. However, in the cooler winter months, succulents enter dormancy, meaning they need far less water. During this time, watering them once or twice throughout the entire season is often sufficient.
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2. Size of the container
The size of the container your succulent is in plays a big role in how often it needs water. Larger pots hold more soil, which retains moisture for a longer period, so they require less frequent watering. On the other hand, smaller, shallow containers dry out faster and will need more frequent watering.
Read more: Everything you need to know about succulent care
3. Amount of light
Succulents that receive plenty of sunlight—about 10 hours or more per day—will need more water compared to those in shadier spots. Outdoor succulents usually require more water than indoor ones due to greater sun exposure and harsher environmental conditions.
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4. Humidity levels
If your succulents are in a humid environment, they will need less frequent watering compared to those in dry, hot climates. For instance, succulents in a dry, sunny location may need daily watering, while those in a cooler, more humid area might only need watering once every week or two.
How to water your succulents
Now that you know how often to water your succulents, it’s important to know the correct way to do it. Succulents are adapted to survive in desert conditions where rainstorms are infrequent but intense.
To mimic this, water your succulent thoroughly by pouring water slowly until it drains out of the pot’s bottom. This deep watering encourages the roots to grow deeper, helping the plant become more resilient.
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Remember, the key is to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Stick to the cycle of “dry out, drench, dry out, drench,” and your succulents will thrive.
ALSO SEE: HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU MOW YOUR LAWN?
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