What should I do if my succulent is shriveling and turning?

If you've noticed that your succulent is shriveling and turning, don't panic! This is a common issue that many succulent owners face, and with the right care, you can help revive your plant and get it back to its healthy, vibrant state.

There are a few potential reasons why your succulent might be shriveling and turning, so let's explore some possible causes and the steps you can take to address them:

1. Watering issues: Overwatering or underwatering can both lead to succulent shriveling. First, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, your succulent may be underwatered. On the other hand, if the soil feels wet or soggy, overwatering could be the culprit. Adjust your watering routine accordingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

2. Lighting conditions: Succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. If your succulent is not receiving enough light, it may stretch and become weak, leading to shriveling and turning. Place your succulent in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement with a grow light.

3. Poor soil drainage: Succulents require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. If your succulent is planted in heavy or compacted soil, it may not be able to absorb water properly, leading to shriveling. Consider repotting your succulent using a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for succulents. You can find a simple recipe for a succulent soil mix on our website, Succulent Help.

4. Temperature and humidity: Succulents prefer warm and dry conditions. If your succulent is exposed to extreme temperatures or high humidity, it may struggle and show signs of stress. Keep your succulent in a room with temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26°C) and ensure proper air circulation to prevent excess humidity.

5. Pest infestation: Certain pests, such as mealybugs or spider mites, can cause succulents to shrivel and turn. Inspect your plant closely for any signs of pests, such as webbing, tiny bugs, or sticky residue. If you spot any pests, treat your succulent with a natural pest control method or consult our website, Succulent Help, for further guidance.

If your succulent is already shriveled and turning, here are some additional steps you can take to help revive it:

1. Trim away damaged leaves: Carefully remove any shriveled or discolored leaves using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This will allow your succulent to focus its energy on healthy growth.

2. Provide a gentle mist: Mist your succulent with water using a spray bottle to provide some hydration. Avoid spraying directly on the leaves to prevent rot. This can help revive your succulent and provide temporary relief until the underlying issue is resolved.

3. Be patient: Reviving a succulent takes time, so be patient and consistent with your care routine. Monitor your plant closely and make adjustments as needed. With proper care, your succulent should start showing signs of improvement within a few weeks.

Remember, each succulent is unique, and it may take some trial and error to find the perfect care routine for your plant. By addressing the potential causes of shriveling and turning, providing the right conditions, and being attentive to your succulent's needs, you can help it recover and thrive once again.

For more detailed information on succulent care, including tips on choosing the best soil, identifying different types of succulents, and more, visit our website, Succulent Help. We're here to support you on your succulent journey!

Avery Patel

Blogging, social media, cooking, traveling

Avery Patel is a succulent blogger and social media influencer. She shares her passion for succulents with her thousands of followers on Instagram and TikTok. When she's not creating content, she enjoys cooking and traveling.