10 Worst Mistakes Beginners Make When Growing Succulents

Are you new to the world of succulents and eager to watch these charming plants thrive? While succulents are often praised for being low-maintenance, they do have specific needs that, if not met, can lead to disappointment. Many beginners make common mistakes that hinder their succulent-growing success. But don’t worry—understanding these pitfalls will set you on the path to becoming a succulent expert.

1. Overwatering Your Succulents

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is overwatering. Succulents are adapted to dry environments and don’t need as much water as other plants. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which is often fatal for succulents. The key is to water them sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to water your succulents once every two weeks, but this can vary depending on the climate and the size of the pot. Always check the soil moisture before watering and remember, it’s better to underwater than to overwater.

2. Using the Wrong Soil

Succulents need well-draining soil to thrive. Many beginners make the mistake of planting succulents in regular garden soil, which retains too much moisture and can lead to root rot. Instead, use a special succulent or cactus mix, which is designed to drain quickly and keep the roots dry. You can also make your own mix by combining regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or pumice. The right soil mix is crucial for healthy succulent growth, so don’t overlook this important detail.

3. Choosing the Wrong Pot

The type of pot you use can have a significant impact on the health of your succulents. Beginners often choose pots that don’t have drainage holes, which can trap water at the bottom and cause root rot. Always opt for pots with drainage holes, which allow excess water to escape. Additionally, avoid pots that are too large for your succulent, as this can lead to overwatering. A pot that’s just slightly larger than the plant’s root system is ideal.

4. Placing Succulents in Insufficient Light

Succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. A common mistake is placing them in areas that don’t receive enough light, leading to leggy, stretched-out plants. While some succulents can tolerate low light, most need at least six hours of sunlight a day to maintain their compact shape and vibrant colors. If you notice your succulent is growing tall and sparse, it’s a sign that it needs more light. Consider moving it to a brighter spot or supplementing with a grow light.

5. Ignoring Temperature Requirements

Succulents are generally hardy, but extreme temperatures can stress them out. Beginners often overlook the temperature needs of their succulents, placing them in areas that are too hot or too cold. Most succulents prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. If you live in a climate with cold winters, be sure to bring your succulents indoors before the first frost. Conversely, protect them from scorching sun and heat during the summer months by providing some shade or moving them indoors during the hottest part of the day.

6. Neglecting Proper Air Circulation

Good air circulation is essential for preventing fungal infections and rot in succulents. Beginners sometimes crowd their succulents too closely together or place them in enclosed spaces where air doesn’t circulate well. Ensure your succulents are spaced out enough to allow air to move around them. If you’re growing succulents indoors, consider placing a fan nearby to improve air flow. This simple step can help keep your succulents healthy and free from disease.

7. Not Fertilizing Succulents Properly

While succulents are not heavy feeders, they do benefit from occasional fertilizing, especially during their growing season. Beginners often either neglect to fertilize altogether or use the wrong type of fertilizer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, and apply it once a month during the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter when succulents are dormant. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth and weak stems, so it’s important to find the right balance.

8. Misunderstanding Dormancy Periods

Many succulents have a dormant period, usually during the winter, when they stop growing and need less water and nutrients. Beginners often don’t recognize when their succulents are dormant and continue to water and care for them as usual, which can cause stress to the plants. It’s important to adjust your care routine based on your succulent’s growth cycle. During dormancy, reduce watering and stop fertilizing until the growing season resumes. Understanding your succulent’s natural rhythms will help you care for them more effectively.

9. Forgetting to Rotate Succulents

Succulents naturally grow towards the light, which can cause them to become lopsided if not rotated regularly. Beginners often forget to rotate their plants, leading to uneven growth and a less attractive appearance. To keep your succulents growing evenly, rotate the pot every few weeks so that all sides receive equal light exposure. This simple habit can make a big difference in the overall health and symmetry of your plants.

10. Ignoring Pest Infestations

Succulents are generally resistant to pests, but they’re not immune. Beginners often overlook early signs of pest infestations, allowing problems to worsen. Common pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can damage succulents if not treated promptly. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, such as discolored leaves, sticky residue, or webbing. If you notice any pests, treat your succulents with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and isolate affected plants to prevent the infestation from spreading. Early intervention is key to keeping your succulents pest-free and thriving.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you grow healthy, beautiful succulents that will brighten up your home or garden for years to come. Remember, the key to successful succulent care is understanding their unique needs and providing the right environment for them to thrive.