How often should I water my succulents and where should I place them?

Watering and proper placement are crucial for the health and well-being of your succulents. As a succulent enthusiast with years of experience, I'm here to guide you through the process.

Watering:

One of the most common mistakes people make with succulents is overwatering. Succulents are adapted to survive in arid conditions and store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. Therefore, they have different watering needs compared to other houseplants.

To determine when to water your succulents, you need to consider a few factors:

1. Soil moisture: Before watering, check the moisture level of the soil. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still moist, wait a few more days.

2. Season: Succulents have different watering requirements depending on the season. During the active growing season (spring and summer), they may need more frequent watering. In contrast, during the dormant period (fall and winter), they require less water.

3. Climate: The climate you live in also affects how often you should water your succulents. In hot and dry climates, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler and more humid climates, less frequent watering is necessary.

Remember, it's better to underwater than overwater your succulents. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, while underwatering can be easily corrected.

Placement:

Proper placement is essential for the overall health and growth of your succulents. Here are some guidelines to help you find the best location for your succulents:

1. Light: Succulents thrive in bright light, so place them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight per day. South or east-facing windows are usually ideal. If you notice your succulents stretching or leaning towards the light, it's a sign they need more sunlight.

2. Temperature: Most succulents prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Avoid placing them in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations or drafts.

3. Indoors: If you're keeping succulents indoors, choose a room with good air circulation. Avoid placing them near heating or cooling vents, as the temperature fluctuations can be detrimental to their health.

4. Outdoors: When placing succulents outdoors, consider the specific needs of each plant. Some succulents can tolerate full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Make sure to acclimate your succulents gradually to prevent sunburn.

In conclusion, watering your succulents should be done based on the moisture level of the soil, the season, and your climate. Remember to err on the side of underwatering rather than overwatering. As for placement, provide your succulents with bright, indirect sunlight and a suitable temperature range. Whether indoors or outdoors, ensure proper air circulation and avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.

By following these watering and placement guidelines, you'll be well on your way to keeping your succulents healthy and thriving. Happy succulent growing!

Meredith Hyatt

Hiking, reading, experimenting with soil mixes

Meredith Hyatt is a passionate succulent grower with over a decade's experience in nurturing and propagating these resilient plants. She takes pleasure in experimenting with varying soil compositions and breeding new plants from cuttings. When she's not immersed in her succulent garden, Meredith takes to the trails for some hiking or unwinds with a good book.