overwatering and General-Succulents
Quick answer
If overwatering is what's going on with your General-Succulents, the most likely cause is: Succulents store water in fleshy tissues and evolved for drought conditions — overwatering creates anaerobic soil that promotes root rot and kills more plants than underwatering ever does
Start here:
- 1. Test soil moisture with finger 1-2 inches deep or hydrometer before watering — only water if completely dry
- 2. Water deeply from top until it flows from drainage holes, then let it drain fully
Why overwatering happens to General-Succulents
Succulents store water in fleshy tissues and evolved for drought conditions — overwatering creates anaerobic soil that promotes root rot and kills more plants than underwatering ever does
How to correct overwatering on General-Succulents
- 1
Test soil moisture with finger 1-2 inches deep or hydrometer before watering — only water if completely dry
- 2
Water deeply from top until it flows from drainage holes, then let it drain fully
- 3
Use 50%+ perlite/grit in cactus soil mix for fast drainage
- 4
During dormancy (winter/cool months), water only every 3-4 weeks to maintain slight root moisture
- 5
Never let pots sit in standing water — empty saucers after 30 minutes
Keep overwatering from repeating on this General-Succulents
Water only when soil is completely dry. Use 'soak and dry' method: water deeply, then wait until bone-dry before rewatering. During cool weather (45-60°F dormancy), keep roots barely moist.