Succulents are beloved for their resilience and easy care, but even these hardy plants can struggle without proper attention.
If you’ve noticed your succulents turning mushy, losing their vibrant leaves, or looking sad, don’t worry.
These common issues are fixable! In this guide, you’ll learn the top reasons why succulents die and actionable tips to save them.
Why Are Your Succulents Dying? 6 Causes and Solutions
1) Overwatering: The #1 Succulent Killer
Overwatering is the most common reason succulents meet an untimely end. Signs of overwatering include:
How to fix it: Stop watering your succulent immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If rot has already set in, gently remove the plant from its pot, cut off the rotted sections, and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
2) Underwatering: Yes, It’s Possible!
While less common, underwatering can also harm your succulents. Signs of underwatering include:
How to fix it: Water your succulent deeply, soaking it thoroughly until water flows out of the pot’s drainage holes. However, avoid overcompensating; succulents thrive on a regular schedule – typically every 2-3 weeks depending on your climate.
3) Poor Drainage: The Silent Threat
Succulents need excellent drainage to avoid waterlogged roots, which can lead to rot.
How to Fix Poor Drainage?
- Use pots with drainage holes to prevent standing water.
- Use cactus or succulent-specific soil for proper aeration.
- If you love decorative pots without drainage, use them as outer covers and keep your succulent in a draining pot inside.
Pro tip: Add a layer of pebbles to the bottom of the pot to improve drainage further.
4) Not Enough Sunlight: A Common Mistake
Succulents thrive in sunlight, and lack of light can leave them leggy and pale.
Signs of insufficient sunlight:
- Long, stretched stems with widely spaced leaves
- Faded or pale colors
How to fix it: Move your succulent to a sunny windowsill or outdoors if temperatures allow. Gradually increase sunlight exposure to avoid sunburn. Aim for 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily to keep your plant thriving.
5) Pest Problems: Tiny Invaders
Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats can wreak havoc on your succulents.
How to spot pests:
How to fix pest issues:
- Remove pests manually using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Spray the plant with neem oil for long-term prevention.
- Keep the soil dry to discourage fungus gnats.
Pro tip: Quarantine infested plants to prevent pests from spreading to others.
6) Temperature Stress: Too Hot or Too Cold
Extreme temperatures can shock succulents, causing them to struggle or die.
Signs of temperature stress:
How to fix it: Keep indoor succulents in a comfortable temperature range of 60-80°F. Protect outdoor succulents from frost or intense midday heat. Bring them indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F.
Conclusion
Succulents may be tough, but even they need the right care to thrive.
By identifying and addressing issues like overwatering, poor sunlight, or pests, you can revive your succulents and enjoy their beauty for years to come.
These resilient plants often bounce back quickly with just a bit of attention. Follow these tips, and your succulents will thank you with lush, healthy growth.
