How to water your succulents correctly
Learn how to keep your succulents healthy with this handy watering guide.
Succulents are drought-tolerant plants that store water in their leaves, stems and roots, so they need watering less often than other plants. Watering them correctly keeps them healthy for longer, and getting the method and conditions right helps them avoid root rot and grow well.
This guide covers everything you need to know about watering succulents, including our own reliable method, the 3 D's: Drench, Drain, Dry!
The 3 D's watering method
We wanted to make watering succulents simpler so that people make fewer mistakes. The 3 D's were easy to remember, so that is the method we use.
First, Drench: water thoroughly until the excess flows out of the drainage holes. Second, Drain: let all the excess water run out of the pot. For that you need free draining soil. Third, Dry: let the soil dry out fully before you water again. Or, as we put it: "Drench, drain, dry, then it won't die!"
Watering indoors
Use the 3 D's for indoor succulents too: drench the soil until water drains from the bottom, then let it dry out completely before you water again. That is usually about once a week. Keep an eye on humidity, as high humidity slows the soil drying, and adjust how often you water to match. A watering can with a narrow spout, or a small water bottle, stops you splashing water onto the leaves. Always choose pots with drainage holes, or if you use decorative pots, make sure you can remove the excess water.
Bottom watering method
Bottom watering works well for small indoor pots. Stand the pot in a tray of water for 10-15 minutes so the soil soaks up moisture through the drainage holes, then take it out and let it drain completely. Watering from below encourages deep root growth and keeps excess moisture off the soil surface, which reduces the chance of rot.
Watering outdoors
Water outdoor succulents (typically Aeoniums, Sedums and Sempervivums) early in the morning. This lowers the chance of sunburn and of the humidity spotting that dark Aeoniums can get. If you grow in the UK and your succulents are planted in the ground, you can leave the rain to water them during the growing season, as long as the soil is free draining.
Plants in pots and planters need watering more often, because soil in a pot dries out much faster than soil in the ground. You may need to water 3 times a week or more in the growing season. Succulents can take that much water while they are in growth (April-September), provided their soil is free draining.
Good drainage
Use a gritty, well-draining mix (such as John Innes No. 2 with added perlite) and always choose pots with drainage holes. If you use decorative pots without drainage, measure the water with a jug so you don't give too much, and remove any excess after watering. In outdoor beds, plant on mounds or raised areas so water drains away better.
Avoiding water on the leaves
Always water directly at the base of the plant, and don't mist. Succulents take up water through their roots, not their leaves. If the leaves get wet by accident, gently shake off the excess or dry them with a soft cloth.
Best type of water for succulents
Rainwater or distilled water is best, as neither contains harmful minerals or chemicals. You can use tap water, but avoid hard water that is high in calcium and chlorine. If tap water is your only option, filtered water is a good alternative.
When and how to feed succulents
Feed succulents every 2-4 weeks while they are actively growing in spring and summer. Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser such as any liquid seaweed feed, Miracle-Gro or tomato feed. Succulents are not too fussy. Don't feed in autumn and winter when growth slows, as over-fertilising can lead to weak, leggy growth. Feeding in winter also leaves the plant more exposed to frost.
Watering through the seasons
Water more in spring and summer, when plants are actively growing. In autumn, cut back gradually to prepare them for dormancy. In winter, water sparingly: many succulents go dormant and need little or no water.
Recognising overwatering and underwatering
Overwatering causes yellow, mushy or translucent leaves, black spots or soft stems, and often leads to root rot. Underwatering shows as wrinkled, shrivelled or dry leaves, slow growth, or roots pulling away from the soil.
Final watering tips
Look at your plants regularly and adjust your watering to suit them. Always check the soil with your finger or a moisture meter before you water. If in doubt, wait a few more days, because succulents cope with drought better than with too much water. Happy growing!
Thank you for reading!
If you have any other care questions, email us at info@surrealsucculents.co.uk and we will be happy to help.
You can find more of our care guides in the Plant Care & Advice section.
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