A guide to watering succulents: how to water them correctly for healthy growth.

Understanding the growth habits of succulents, watering frequency, watering methods, soil selection, and precautions

Succulents have become increasingly popular in home gardening in recent years due to their unique shapes and easy-care characteristics. Many beginners encounter a common question when caring for succulents: How to water them correctly? Both excessive and insufficient watering can lead to poor growth in succulents. This article will provide a detailed analysis of succulent watering techniques to help you grow healthy succulents.

Understanding the growth habits of succulents

Succulents are native to arid and semi-arid regions, so their water requirements are relatively low. It is crucial to understand their growth habits before watering. Succulents prefer a sunny and well-ventilated environment and require less water.

Watering frequency

The watering frequency of succulents depends on various factors such as climate, soil, and containers. Here are some common watering frequencies:

1. Spring and autumn: Water once every 7-10 days.

2. Summer: Water once every 3-5 days, avoiding the high-temperature period at noon.

3. Winter: Water once every 15-20 days, or even once a month.

Watering methods

1. Watering time: Choose to water in the morning or evening, avoiding the high-temperature period at noon.

2. Watering method: Try to use a watering can or a narrow-necked bottle to water, avoiding direct watering on the leaves to prevent leaf rot.

3. Watering depth: Water thoroughly but do not let the water linger in the soil for too long.

Soil selection

The soil for succulents should have good drainage and breathability. Here are some suitable soil choices for succulents:

1. Decomposed leaf soil: Good breathability and water retention.

2. Sandy soil: Good drainage but poor water retention, requiring the addition of decomposed leaf soil or other organic matter.

3. Vermiculite: Good breathability and drainage but poor water retention.

Precautions

1. Avoid overwatering: Succulents are not tolerant of waterlogging, and excessive watering can lead to root rot.

2. Pay attention to the plant's condition: Observe the condition of the succulents when watering, such as wilted leaves and dry soil.

3. Regularly check the soil: Regularly check the soil moisture to adjust the watering frequency.

Watering succulents is a science that requires patience and practice. By understanding their growth habits, selecting suitable soil, and mastering the correct watering methods, we can grow healthy and beautiful succulents. I hope this article can provide you with help and wish you a smooth journey in caring for succulents.

References:

[1] Zhang Xiaofang, Li Ming. Techniques for caring for succulents [J]. China Flower and Horticulture, 2019, 38(12): 32-33.

[2] Zhao Fang, Liu Yang. Watering techniques for succulents [J]. China Flower and Horticulture, 2018, 37(10): 28-29.