How To Water Succulents Indoors

Growing succulents indoors can be a gratifying experience, but providing the right amount of water is essential for their success.

Overwatering is the most common mistake when it comes to succulent care and it’s the top reason people give up on these plants, which is a shame!

So let me share this little secret with you: the key to watering succulents indoors is to let the soil in the pot dry out completely between waterings! Yes- that’s the big secret!

Because succulents are sensitive to overwatering, soggy soil that never drains is the quickest way to end up with root rot.

Succulents thrive in well-draining soil. It’s important to use a pot with drainage holes and a soil mix specifically designed for succulents to prevent root rot and ensure your succulents stay healthy and vibrant.

Keep an eye on the leaves; they often tell you when to water. Plump, firm leaves indicate a happy plant, while wrinkled, soft leaves signal it’s time for a drink. With these simple tips, you can enjoy the beauty of succulents in your home without worry.

Understanding Succulents

Succulents are quite fascinating and unique.

They store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, making them drought-tolerant and resilient. It’s how they survive out in the wild with sporadic rainfall.

They come in several different, each offering unique benefits for indoor gardeners.

Types of Indoor Succulents

There are various types of indoor succulents, each with unique care requirements and visual appeal.

Aloe Vera is a popular choice for its medicinal properties and ease of care. It thrives in bright, indirect light and needs watering only when the soil is completely dry.

Snake plant is a succulent that many people grow as houseplants. It thrives indoors and adds modern vibes to any space.

This slow grower grows upright and it’s one f the most resilient succulents you can buy.

Jade Plant is an excellent indoor succulent that prefers bright light and can tolerate dry conditions. It’s known for its thick, woody stems and plump, glossy leaves.

Haworthia is perfect for low-light environments and has attractive, patterned leaves. It requires minimal watering and is quite resilient to neglect.

Watering Basics

Watering succulents indoors can be simple when you know the right timing and frequency. This ensures they stay healthy and vibrant without being overwatered.

When to Water Succulents

Observe your succulents’ leaves for clues. Plump, firm leaves mean they have enough water.

On the other hand, shriveled, soft leaves signal they need watering. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil; it’s time to water if it feels dry.

Morning is the best time, as it allows the soil to dry before nightfall, preventing root rot.

How Often to Water

Frequency depends on various factors. In warmer months, you may need to water every 1-2 weeks. During cooler seasons, once a month might suffice. Always let the soil dry completely between watering. It’s better to underwater slightly than to risk overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other issues.

Bottom Watering Method

Bottom watering allows succulents to absorb water from the pot’s base. Use a shallow container filled with water and place the pot inside.

Let it sit for 15-30 minutes. This method helps prevent root rot, keeping the soil’s surface dry. It’s especially useful for delicate succulents prone to overwatering.

Monitor moisture levels to avoid waterlogging the roots. Ensure pots have drainage holes. After bottom watering, let the excess water drain before placing the succulent back on its saucer.

Using a Watering Can with a Long Spout

A watering can with a long spout offers precision and control. Direct water towards the soil instead of the leaves.

The long spout helps you reach the base without splashing. This method can reduce the risk of fungal infections on leaves, which are common in humid conditions.

It’s ideal for densely packed terrariums or succulents with tight clusters. Pour water slowly to ensure it penetrates deeply and reaches the roots. Avoid quick, heavy pours to prevent soil displacement and root disturbance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Maintaining the right balance of water is crucial for healthy succulents. Common problems include signs of overwatering and underwatering. Knowing what to look for can help you keep your plants thriving.

Signs of Overwatering

Overwatered succulents often have swollen, mushy leaves that may look translucent. This waterlogged condition can lead to root rot, detrimental to your plant’s health. A key indicator is if the leaves start falling off with a slight touch. Check the soil; if it remains wet for several days, you might overdo it on the watering.

Reduce the frequency of watering to remedy overwatering. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Consider repotting the plant in dry soil if root rot is detected. Remove leaves that have turned black and mushy to help the plant recover.

Signs of Underwatering

Underwatered succulents show leaves that are shriveled or wrinkled. They can appear thin and may lose their plump appearance.

The soil may be excessively dry, pulling away from the edges of the pot. You might also notice slow growth or changes in color, such as dullness.

To address underwatering, start by watering your plant thoroughly, allowing water to soak through the soil and out of the drainage hole.

Monitor the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule to ensure the soil isn’t bone dry for extended periods.

Remember, while succulents are drought-tolerant, they still need some hydration to thrive.

Additional Care Tips

Taking care of succulents indoors involves more than just watering. You’ll need the right soil mix and adequate lighting to ensure their health and growth.

Proper Soil Mix

Succulents thrive best in a soil mix that provides excellent drainage. Regular potting soil can retain too much moisture, which can lead to root rot. To create the ideal environment, use a cactus/succulent mix that you can find at gardening stores.

Alternatively, you can make your own mix. Combine two parts potting soil, one part coarse sand, and one part perlite or pumice. This mixture ensures that water drains quickly, reducing the risk of overwatering.

Repotting your succulents in this mix can offer better growth conditions. Choose pots with drainage holes to further improve water management. Regularly check the soil to ensure it remains loose and well-draining.

Adequate Lighting

Lighting is

Succulents need lots of light to stay healthy. Place them near a south-facing window where they can get around six hours of indirect sunlight daily. East and west-facing windows also work well, but avoid north-facing windows if possible.

If natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and provide the correct spectrum for succulent growth. Place your plants under the grow light for about 12 to 14 hours daily.

Rotate your plants regularly to ensure all sides get equal light exposure. Insufficient light can cause succulents to become leggy and lose their compact shape, affecting their overall appearance and health.