Why is my succulent going limp?
If you notice that your succulent is going limp and its top leaves are appearing withered and shriveled, it is likely that your plant is being underwatered. Succulents are known for their ability to store water in their leaves and stems, but they still need regular watering to thrive.
When a succulent doesn’t receive enough water, its leaves will start to lose their plumpness and become dehydrated. This can happen for various reasons, such as forgetting to water your plant or not providing enough water during its growing season or a heatwave.
To remedy this issue, it’s important to water your succulents more frequently and thoroughly. A good rule to remember is that succulents need more water during a heatwave or when they are in their active growing season.
Here are some tips to properly water your succulents:
1. Check the soil moisture: Before watering, check the moisture level of the soil. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil and see if it feels dry. If it’s dry, it’s time to water.
2. Water thoroughly: When you water your succulents, make sure to thoroughly soak the soil until water flows out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system gets hydrated.
3. Don’t let them sit in water: While it’s important to water your succulents thoroughly, it’s equally important to allow the excess water to drain out. Succulents do not like to sit in waterlogged soil, as it can lead to root rot. Make sure your pots have good drainage holes and remove any excess water that accumulates in the saucer or tray.
4. Adjust watering frequency: The frequency of watering depends on various factors such as the type of succulent, the temperature, and the humidity levels. Generally, succulents need to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot weather or their active growing season, you may need to water them more often.
5. Observe and adjust: Pay attention to how your succulents respond to watering. If you notice that the leaves are still looking shriveled even after watering, it may be a sign of underwatering. On the other hand, if the leaves start to look mushy and translucent, it may indicate overwatering. Adjust your watering routine accordingly.
Personal Experience: I once had a succulent that started going limp and its leaves were shriveling up. I realized that I had been neglecting to water it regularly, especially during a particularly hot summer. I increased the frequency of watering and made sure to thoroughly soak the soil each time. Within a few weeks, my succulent started to regain its plumpness and looked healthy again.
If your succulent is going limp and its leaves are withered and shriveled, it is likely due to underwatering. Remember to water your succulents more frequently and thoroughly, especially during hot weather or their growing season. Observing and adjusting your watering routine based on the plant’s response will help ensure the health and vitality of your succulents.
