What should I do if I over-watered my succulent and repotted it in a new pot?

Oh no, I'm sorry to hear that you've over-watered your succulent! Don't worry, though, I'm here to help you fix the situation and get your succulent back on track.

When a succulent is over-watered, its roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot and other issues. Repotting your succulent in a new pot is a good first step, as it allows you to assess the root system and make any necessary changes. Here's what you should do:

1. Remove the succulent from the pot: Gently take your succulent out of the pot, being careful not to damage the roots. If the soil is wet and compacted, you can gently shake off the excess moisture.

2. Inspect the roots: Take a close look at the roots of your succulent. Healthy roots should be firm and white or light brown in color. If you notice any mushy or blackened roots, it's a sign of root rot. Use clean scissors or pruning shears to trim away any damaged roots.

3. Let the roots dry: After trimming the roots, allow them to dry for a day or two. This will help prevent further rot and allow the plant to recover.

4. Choose the right soil: Succulents need well-draining soil to thrive. Use a specialized succulent or cactus mix, or create your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand. This will ensure that excess water can easily drain away from the roots.

5. Repot the succulent: Select a new pot that is slightly larger than the previous one. Fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of fresh soil, then carefully place the succulent on top. Add more soil around the roots, gently pressing it down to secure the plant. Leave a small gap between the soil surface and the rim of the pot to prevent water from overflowing.

6. Water sparingly: After repotting, it's important to adjust your watering routine. Succulents prefer to be slightly under-watered rather than over-watered. Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again, and be sure to water deeply but infrequently. Remember, it's better to underwater than to overwater.

7. Provide proper light and temperature: Succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Place your repotted succulent in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Additionally, make sure the temperature is suitable for your succulent's specific needs. Most succulents prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C and 27°C).

By following these steps, you can give your over-watered succulent a chance to recover and thrive once again. Remember, patience is key when it comes to nursing a succulent back to health. Keep a close eye on your plant and make adjustments as needed. With proper care, your succulent will bounce back and bring you joy for years to come.

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.