Tending to a dying succulent can be a daunting task for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. But the reality is that succulents are hardy plants that can bounce back from the brink with the right care. Before you give up and toss that wilting, shriveling, or overly brown succulent, use this survival guide to learning how to save a dying succulent.
1. Diagnosing the Problem
Firstly, you need to identify what’s wrong with your succulent. Overwatering, underwatering, improper lighting, temperature fluctuations, and pests are common culprits. Symptoms can include drooping or wilting, yellowing or browning leaves, or soft, mushy, or shriveled stems and leaves. Look closely at your plant and do some research to help pinpoint the problem.
2. Remove the Unhealthy Parts
If you notice any rotting or dead parts in your succulent, it’s crucial to remove them to prevent the spread of disease. Use a clean, sharp pair of garden shears or a knife for this purpose. Be sure to sterilize your tool between each cut to avoid cross-contamination. After you’ve removed the unhealthy parts, allow the wounds to ‘callous’ or dry over for a few days before moving on to the next step.
3. Correct Watering Techniques
Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why succulents die. If your succulent shows signs of rot or has soft, mushy stems or leaves, it’s likely being overwatered. Correct this by reducing watering frequency. Succulents prefer deep, infrequent watering – a good soaking whenever the soil has completely dried out.
Underwatered succulents will display shrunken, wrinkled leaves. If you notice these signs, water your plant more frequently. Be careful, though; balance is key. The last thing you want is to transition from an underwatered plant to an overwatered plant.
4. Lighting Conditions
Improper lighting conditions can be detrimental to succulents. If your succulent isn’t receiving enough light, it may become etiolated, or leggy, as it stretches towards the light source. To rectify, gradually increase the amount of light your succulent receives daily. Too much light, however, can cause succulents to get sunburned, identified by white, bleached out, or brown patches on the leaves. In this case, shift your succulent to a location with less intense sunlight.
5. Maintain Optimal Temperature and Airflow
Succulents thrive in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Temperature fluctuations can cause stress and damage. Make sure your plant is not placed near heating ducts or air conditioners.
Additionally, ensure your succulent is getting adequate airflow. Stagnant air can increase the likelihood of fungal diseases.
6. Repotting your Succulent
A cramped or oversized pot can spell disaster for your succulent. If your plant has outgrown its pot, it’s time for a new home. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the succulent’s root ball where it can grow comfortably. If the pot is too large, soil may retain excess water and could cause root rot.
When re-potting, always use a fast-draining succulent or cactus mix. Ordinary potting soil retains too much moisture.
7. Dealing with Pests
Pests like mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites can cause significant damage to succulents. Inspect your plant frequently. If you notice pest activity, consider using a solution of mild dish soap and water to spray on the plant, or for a heavy infestation, a pre-mixed insecticidal soap.
Saving a dying succulent is more than possible with the right knowledge and care. But remember, prevention is always better than a cure. As you get more familiar with your plant’s normal growth cycle and habits, you’ll be able to prevent most issues from occurring in the first place. By maintaining proper watering, lighting, temperature, and regularly inspecting for pests, you can ensure that your succulent thrives.
So the next time you see a succulent dying, don’t panic. Follow this survival guide to bring it back to its vibrant and lively form. Always remember, succulents are survivors. With proper care, they can bounce back from the verge and flourish again.
