🚫 When NOT to Water Succulents: 7 Crucial Situations You Must Know

Watering is vital for succulents, but sometimes it can do more harm than good. Knowing when NOT to water is just as important as watering correctly. Here are 7 situations where watering can be dangerous to your succulent's health. 🌵💧

1️⃣ Continuous Rainy Days or High Humidity

Why avoid watering:

• High humidity slows evaporation.

• Prolonged moisture can lead to mould and root rot. 🦠

What to do:

• Delay watering until drier weather.

• Keep good airflow. Use fans if necessary. 💨

2️⃣ Hot and Windless Days

Why avoid watering:

• Poor air circulation and heat can suffocate roots and cause rot. 🌡️

How to check:

• Insert your finger 2-3 cm into the soil. If it's still moist, skip watering. 👆

3️⃣ Extreme Temperatures

High heat (>35°C ）:

• Succulents enter dormancy.

• Roots absorb poorly and rot risk increases. 🔥

Cold (<5°C ):

• Water metabolism slows or stops.

• Watering may cause frost damage or root rot. ❄️

Tip:

• Water during cooler times (morning/evening) and restrict watering in winter.

4️⃣ During Dormancy

Why avoid watering:

• Summer dormant plants (e.g. Lithops): Minimal or no water in summer.

• Winter dormant plants (e.g. Cactus): Reduced water in winter. 💤

Signs of dormancy:

• Growth stops and outer leaves shrink slightly.

5️⃣ After Repotting or Root Pruning

Why avoid watering:

• Roots are damaged and vulnerable to infection. 🩹

What to do:

• Wait 3-7 days before resuming light watering.

• Gradually increase water as roots heal. ⏳

6️⃣ When the Plant is Sick or Has Root Rot

Symptoms:

• Black leaves, mushy stems, and softened parts. ⚠️

Treatment:

• Stop watering immediately.

• Remove the plant, trim rotten roots, and dry before replanting. ✂️

7️⃣ Pots Without Drainage Holes

Risk:

• Water cannot drain, leading to extremely high risk of waterlogging. 🚱

Solution:

• Use breathable pots or add a bottom layer of pebbles (e.g. volcanic rocks). 🪨

💡 Bonus Watering Tips

• Observe leaves: Bottom leaves that are slightly shrivelled (but not dry) indicate thirst.

• Seasonal adjustment:

  • Spring/Fall (growing seasons): Use the "soak and dry" method.

  • Summer/Winter: Limit watering.

• Water quality: Avoid direct tap water (chlorine). Use rainwater or let tap water sit 1-2 days. 🚰

By following these guidelines, you'll prevent common mistakes and keep your succulents healthy and happy. When in doubt, it's always safer to under-water than over-water. 🌿✨#SucculentCare #PlantTips #Gardening 🌱