Watering Your Succulents - A Fine Line.

Let’s take a closer look at the proper way to water your succulents. 

How little is too much? How few is too frequent?

It’s important to have a comprehensive understanding of why we water succulents (or any plant) the way we do. Knowing why sets the experts apart from the wanna-bees. 

SO! Let’s start with a short review of the basics. Succulents are plants that thrive in arid climates with limited water resources.These suckers are expecting a drought; they are equipped to survive in an ecosystem that contains scarce water. Their genetic makeup allows them to store water in various structures, such as their thickened and fleshy leaves and/or stems. 

As we have previously discussed in a few of Horticult’s riveting blog posts, the correct way to water succulents involves dispensing enough water so that your soil is completely soaked and you see water coming out of your container’s drainage hole. This allows the plant’s fleshy stems and leaves to soak up as much water as they can. Equivalently critical, you do not want to water them again until the soil has dried completely. At that point your succulent is parched and ready for a big gulp!

By now you’re probably thinking, we’ve heard this already. You’re being redundant. How many times is she going to tell us this? This was just a review young grasshopper, now we’re diving into the dirty details.

Now! Why is it important to wait until the soil dries out? Remember, succulents have more water storage tissues than Beyonce has hit songs.  When you water a succulent too much, it will fill it’s water storage tissues to a point of damage. If this happens, your plant will start to bloat [think you + too much cheese dip]. You willnotice overly puffy looking stems & leaves and a general look of unhealthiness. Additionally, overwatering can lead to root rot. Ultimately, either one of these issues (Gaia forbid a combination 🙏🏼) will lead to your carefully-cared-for-and-overly-researched plant’s demise. 

With that being said, watering too little can be just as big of a problem. Make sure you are using a watering device that will dispense a generous amount of water at a time, like a watering can or pitcher. Stay away from spray bottles or spritzers that may only mist the surface of the plant. Your succulent wants to absorb water into every fleshy nook and cranny available. Why take a light shower when you could soak in a bubble bath, am I right? Succulents agree whole heartedly. 

REAL QUICK SUMMARY:

Initially, when you plant your succulents in their container, drench the soil using a watering can or pitcher. Continue to dispense water until you notice it trickling out of the drainage hole. It’s important to make sure water drains properly and isn’t stagnant in container (if it is, make the necessary adjustments). Check on soil daily to see if it has dried out. Eventually, you will notice the soil is free from any moisture. When this occurs, it’s time to give your parched succulents a drink, and start the process over again!