How to Water Succulent Container Plants

Many plants fall into the succulent plant category, including cactus, jade and aloe vera. Succulent plants typically have thick leaves that help store water for the plant during drought. That doesn't mean that a succulent plant won't suffer if it isn't watered sufficiently, however. Signs of insufficient water include shriveling of leaves. Too much water may lead to leaf drop and root rot. The correct amount of watering is required to keep succulents looking healthy.

Things You'll Need

• Watering can

Instructions

1. Water succulent plants from the top, covering the entire surface for even coverage. Keep pouring the water until it begins to seep out of the bottom holes of the plant container. When the water has finished seeping out of the pot, empty the plant pot's saucer.

2. Give succulent plants water again only after the soil has completely dried. This may take up to two weeks, depending on the size of the plant, size of the plant pot and temperature of the room the plant is in.

3. Reduce the watering frequency during the dormancy period, which for most succulents is during the winter months. If you've been watering the plant once a week, for example, extend that time by an extra day until you are watering only every two weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Tap water is acceptable for succulents, but for the healthiest plants, try rainwater or distilled water.

• Proper potting soil will help in keeping the succulent's plant pot well drained so that the plant is not standing moist for too long. Choose a commercial mixture specifically made for cacti and succulents, as these are better draining soils than standard potting mixtures.

References

• Succulent-plant.com: The Cultivation Page About Growing Cacti And Other Succulent Plants
• Cactus & Succulent Society of San Jose: Cactus and Succulent Care for Beginners
• University of Illinois Extension; Try Cacti and Succulents for Easy-Care Houseplants; Sandra L. Mason; November 2007
• University of Rhode Island; Cacti And Succulents