Succulents are renowned for being resilient and low maintenance, however, problems can still arise. Like all flora, succulents can succumb to various disease. Here are some tips to save your indoor plant if you found symptoms such as yellowing, wrinkled, or withered leaves, stem rot, or brown spots.
While caring for succulents is generally straight forward, spotting signs of trouble indicates the need for immediate intervention and perhaps a bit more nurturing. Identifying and addressing succulent problems can be challenging, but once pinpointed, corrective measures can be taken, such as improving soil quality or adjusting light exposure.
Some common succulent problems come up again and again, even seasoned, proficient gardeners may encounter them. We’ve listed the most frequent issues with succulents along with effective remedies for them, use this guide as a resource if you have any concerns about your plant. Identify the cause of your succulent’s problems, then take our suggestions to preserve it, your succulent will appreciate it, and it won’t take long for it to appear vibrant and robust once more!
Yellowing Leaves
There are several causes for changes in leaf coloration. If you see that the color of your houseplant is changing, it could be due to improper watering or nutrient deficiencies.
To restore your succulent’s vigor and green hue, assess your watering habits. Overwatered plants exhibit swollen leaves; reduce watering to allow the soil to dry out. Conversely, shriveled leaves indicate dehydration, requiring increased hydration.
If you have been watering your succulents according to all the guidelines, then maybe the soil is simply lacking in nutrients. It’s likely that your plant has already absorbed all of the nutrients if it has been in the same soil mixture for some time. Consider repotting by using new succulent mix or adding fertilizer to rejuvenate the soil and improve plant health.
Shedding Leaf
Leaf falls in succulents often indicates overwatering, where excess moisture could causes leaves to become mushy and easily fall off.
Reduce the watering of your plant right away if it appears to be overwatered and allow the soil to thoroughly dry out. Try removing the plant from the pot, drying the roots, and replanting in a fresh, dry mix if the soil is too wet to salvage.
Dead Lower Leaves
Do not be alarmed if you see your succulent’s lower leaves becoming crispy and brown. The bottom leaves of the plant will begin to wither as the upper portion grows. This is the normal part of the plant’s growth cycle. You can simply remove the wilted leaves from the plant if you don’t like the way they appear.
Brown Spots
Be alert when you notice brown spots on succulent leaves as it can have a variety of causes. Excessive exposure to light and sudden exposure to intense light can cause the plant get sunburnt. Succulents require gradual acclimatization to new light conditions to prevent damage.
Avoid rapid shifts from shade to direct sunlight. Instead, gradually increase light exposure over days to minimize stress on the plant.
Overwatering is another factor contributing to brown spots. Your succulent may rot due to too much moisture, and its leaves may turn brown. Reduce watering or you can also dry the plant’s roots and replant it.
Wrinkled Leaves
Dehydration in succulents is indicated by wrinkled or shriveled leaves, signaling insufficient water intake. Although these houseplants don’t require a lot of water to thrive, they risk becoming dehydrated if they receive no hydration at all. Finding the ideal moisture balance is important since too much or too little can both be harmful. If the leaves on your succulent resemble raisins, thoroughly soak the soil during watering. You can resoak the plant after two weeks if the soil is dry. Avoid watering if the soil remains damp after two weeks.
Rotting Stem
Stem rot in succulents is typically a consequence of overwatering. To salvage the plant, trim the stem above the affected area and discard the lower portion.
Allow the cutting to air dry for a few days then only replant it in dry, well-draining succulent soil.
Stretched Out Leaves
Etiolation is the term for when your succulent grows taller but has scant and elongated leaves with big gaps between them. This occurs when succulents do not receive adequate light.
To correct etiolation, relocate the succulent to a brighter location with ample sunlight. Alternatively, prune the stretched growth and encourage new growth under suitable lighting conditions to restore the plant’s compact form.
Achieving Growth Success
In mastering indoor succulent care, patience and attentiveness are key allies. Each succulent has unique requirements, and understanding them enhances your ability to nurture thriving plants. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, the satisfaction of seeing your succulents flourish indoors is immensely rewarding.
By addressing these common succulent issues promptly and effectively, you can ensure your plants remain vibrant and thriving, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and longevity. Enjoy the journey of watching your succulent family thrive and bring natural beauty to your indoor space.