Succulents They are very hardy plants and, therefore, are recommended as a preferred option for novices who want to get started in gardening. People who are absent-minded, busy, and rushed also find these specimens as an alternative, given their resilience and the little care they require. But this does not mean that we should be careless and let our guard down, since succulents They can also become sick, damaged, or die if not properly cared for. Among the main causes are some of the most common mistakes when growing them.
We could list up to five glaring mistakes we make when we have succulents at home without much knowledge. Although each species has its own unique needs, the key factors to consider are basically the same: sun, temperature, water, and soil. It's important to evaluate each of these aspects when deciding to care for a succulent to ensure its health and beauty.
First common mistake that harms the cultivation of succulents: irrigation
The first of Most common mistakes when growing succulents It is not paying attention to the water we pour into it. We believe that plants need water and that the more water, the more beautiful and healthy they will grow, when quite the opposite is true. That is, in general, plants need water like we do, but not all species will require the same amount of irrigation.
There will be specimens that demand water in abundance, having to check that the substrate is always moist. While other plants, such as succulents, accumulate water deposits in their leaves and, in some cases, in their stems, so they do not need as much watering. In these cases, watering should be moderate, waiting until the soil has dried completely before giving it more water.
Overwatering will cause the succulent to suffer from root rot, among other diseases and conditions such as fungal growth, due to moisture. It's essential to understand that succulents are water-storing plants, and their watering should be controlled and spaced out.
Moderate irrigation, depending on the climate you live in. In dry climates, you may need to water less frequently, while in humid environments, you still need to be careful to avoid waterlogging. Additionally, placing a substrate that absorbs moisture well, such as a mixture based on sand, perlite or volcanic rock, which facilitates drainage and prevents water from being retained.
The pot does not drain well: second mistake when growing succulents
It will also be very good for you to do holes in the pot wherever you're growing it. Or buy a pot with enough holes to allow water to drain completely, avoiding buildup that could damage the roots.
If you bought a pot without holes and now discover it doesn't have any, make them yourself with a suitable drill bit. If you're not comfortable with this, it's recommended to replace it with one with a good drainage system, as this is key to the health of your plants. Additionally, you can add a drainage-promoting material to the bottom, such as volcanic rock, gravel, or perlite, to further improve water drainage.
More mistakes you should not make with a succulent: lack of sun
Succulents can look beautiful in the living room, bathroom, kitchen, and other indoor spaces, but we forget one key detail: they need sun. And plenty of direct or filtered sunlight to stay healthy and look radiant.
They are such hardy plants that they can survive even without sunlight, but they don't look as pretty or healthy. At least six hours of sunlight a day is recommended, preferably in the morning, to avoid sunburn. If grown indoors, place them in a location with good natural light or receive artificial light if necessary. Outdoors, protect them from intense midday sun to prevent leaf damage.
For indoor plants, if you can't expose them to enough natural light, consider using artificial lights specifically for plants, which ensure the necessary amount of light for optimal growth.
Too small pots damage the succulent
We often see succulents in pots that are too small, often for aesthetic reasons or due to lack of knowledge. However, a small pot limits the plant's growth and can cause its roots to suffocate or become waterlogged with excess water. The pot should be proportional to the root size so the plant can develop properly.
Remember that neither a pot that is too large nor too small is a good fit. The ideal option is one that allows enough space for the roots to grow unrestricted, but without retaining too much moisture. This will help maintain the succulent's balance and health.
A good choice of substrate, key in cultivation
The substrate for growing succulents is one of the most important factors. It must be light, porous, and well-drained to avoid excessive moisture, which can cause fungus and root rot. Ideally, use a mixture of coarse sand, perlite, volcanic rock, or gravel, in appropriate proportions.
The right substrate promotes plant growth, coloration, and overall health. It's also recommended to renew the substrate periodically to prevent compaction and deterioration of its original quality. Before planting or repotting, make sure the substrate is light, well-drained, and suitable for succulents.
For more information on suitable materials, see our guide on pots and substrates for succulents.
Regular inspection and care: key to healthy plants
Succulent care doesn't end with planting. It's essential to regularly inspect the plant, remove dry leaves, and check for pests. It's also important to repot the plant when needed, generally every one or two years, to ensure the roots have enough space and the substrate maintains its properties.
Consistent and proper care prevents succulents from becoming ill or dying prematurely, and also enhances their beauty and resilience.
The right substrate, another pillar in cultivation
Finally, using the right substrate—light, porous, and of good quality—is essential. A universal substrate isn't enough; it must be specifically designed for succulents, providing good drainage and adequate aeration to avoid moisture and fungal problems. The quality and regeneration of the substrate directly influences the plant's health and growth.
Check out our guide on pots and substrates for succulents to choose the best option.
