How to care for your Succulents

Unlike most houseplants, succulents are drought tolerant and retain moisture in their leaves. This means that they like well draining soil containing sand, perlite, and other materials which support drainage. You can find succulent potting soil at most hardware and plant stores. 

As mentioned before, succulents retain water in their leaves. This is what allows them to successfully live in arid, desert environments. The number one way most people kill their succulents is through overwatering. The best rule of thumb for watering your succulents is to only water them when the soil is completely dry. The best way to figure this out is by simply sticking your finger in the soil. Typically they need to be watered about once a week, and more often during hot spells. It is best to water the soil directly to allow for better root absorption. If you are watering your succulent and notice that the water seems to be running right through it/ it isnt retaining moisture, you can soak your plant in a pan of water for a few hours to allow the roots to absorb the water. Just remember, when growing succulents, they do not require as much water as your typical houseplant.

All succulents need light, some more than others. The hardier succulents can withstand bright direct light, while the softer succulents prefer bright indirect light (like in a sunny window). I typically keep my succulents in sunny windows during the winter months and then bring them outside for summer in a bright, covered area (I usually use my screened in porch). Keep in mind, when growing succulents that are hardy, it is best practice to leave them outdoors all year round. 

The signs of over and under watering can be quite similar. When a plant is overwatered the leaves will start to droop, become translucent, or mushy. Conversely, when overwatered the plants leaves will turn brown and fall off. If your plant is under watered, simply give it more water. If it is over watered, allow the plant to dry out completely. Ensure there is no water pooled around the bottom if you have your plant set in a dish. 

In order to make sure your succulent is getting enough light on all sides, it is best practice to rotate your arrangement every few days to allow different parts to get light. This will help your succulent to grow straight, rather than leaning to reach sunnier areas. 

You do not need to fertilize your succulents, but if you do it is recommended to do so during the spring and summer months. Do not over fertilize your plant or it may cause it to grow too quickly and weaken.