Watering Succulents: How Often and How Much

Succulents are among the most popular houseplants due to their low-maintenance nature and stunning appearance. However, even though they are hardy plants, watering succulents is a delicate job if you want to keep them longevity. How often to water succulents? How to water succulents? These are the two questions we are going to explore today. 

How Often Do You Water Succulents

It’s hard to conclude a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to watering succulents, as the frequency of watering depends on several factors(seasons, container types, humidity levels, temperature, etc.). Here, we’ll explain the frequency of watering succulents roughly by season. 

During the warmer months(spring and summer), when the temperature is above 20 ℃, succulents are typically in their active growing phase. In this period, they may require water more frequently, usually every 10 or 14 days.

In winter, when the temperature reaches 5℃ or below, succulents go into dormancy, meaning their growth slows down significantly. During this time, you can reduce the watering frequency to every 3-4 weeks, or even longer. 

Succulents are drought-tolerant plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, meaning they can go for extended periods without needing water. So, no matter which season your succulents are experiencing, always make sure the soil is thoroughly dry before watering again. If the soil isn’t dry and crumbly, hold off on watering.

How to Water Succulents Properly

Succulents, originally from desert regions, are adapted to infrequent but heavy rainfalls. So, when it’s time to water, think of desert monsoons, where the rain comes down in heavy sheets. Similarly, when you water your succulent, make sure to soak the soil thoroughly.

Start by pouring water slowly around the base of the plant, ensuring it flows out of the drainage holes in the pot. This ensures that the water reaches deep into the soil, hydrating the entire root system. Instead of giving small, frequent waterings that only wet the top layer of soil, focus on giving your succulent a deep, generous drink every time.

Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. When the soil feels dry to the touch and crumbly, it’s time to water again. This cycle – dry, then drench – is the best way to keep your succulents healthy. 

Avoid leaving your plant sitting in water, as this can lead to root rot, which is a common cause of succulent death. Just remember: a succulent can bounce back from being a bit too dry, but not from sitting in waterlogged soil.

Final Thoughts on Watering Succulents

To sum up, it’s generally suggested to water your succulents every 10 days or every other week on warm days. When the weather gets cold, water your succulents every 3-4 weeks. These are not distinct rules, remember, so adjust the frequency as your plant displays signs of drought or overwatering, and do check the soil status before watering.