You’ve likely invested time and care into your indoor succulents, but chances are you’re making a few critical mistakes that could be hindering their health.

Perhaps you’ve chosen a decorative container without proper drainage holes, or you’re misting them too frequently, rather than providing a thorough soak when the soil is dry.

These common errors can lead to root rot, underwatering, and other issues that compromise your plants’ well-being. As you tend to your succulents, it’s important to recognize these pitfalls – but do you know what other mistakes you might be making?

Wrong Container Choices

A potted succulent in a large, dark-colored container with poor drainage holes, resting in a saucer filled with water, on a light-colored background to emphasize the plant's yellowing leaves and soggy roots

When choosing a container for your succulents, you’re setting the stage for potential problems if it doesn’t have adequate drainage. You’re fundamentally inviting root rot and overwatering issues to the party.

Succulents prefer dry soil, and containers without drainage holes can lead to water pooling at the bottom, causing root rot. Even adding pebbles to a non-draining pot won’t solve the issue. To avoid this, consider using a smaller pot with drainage inside a decorative one.

It’s also essential to use a succulent-specific potting mix, which is designed to dry out faster and prevent waterlogging. By making these simple adjustments, you’ll be giving your succulents the best chance to thrive.

Incorrect Watering Methods

A close-up of a succulent plant in a pot, with water pooling around the base and a watering can or cup nearby, with a few droplets on the leaves and some visibly waterlogged soil.

One of the most common mistakes you can make with your succulents is adopting a watering method that actually harms them, such as misting instead of thoroughly watering the soil.

While misting may seem beneficial, it can lead to rot and other problems. Succulents need a good soaking when the soil is dry, not a light misting.

When you do water, make sure to water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can also lead to rot. If you accidentally get water on the leaves, gently blot it off with a paper towel.

Learn more: How to correctly water your succulents.

Underwatering Your Succulents

Dried-out succulent with wilted, shriveled leaves and brown tips, sitting in a dry, cracked potting soil, on a windowsill with a faded, water-stained planter

Neglecting to water your succulents adequately can have just as devastating an impact on their health as overwatering, causing them to shrivel and drop their leaves.

You might think succulents are super hardy and can survive without water for weeks, but that’s not entirely true. While they can tolerate some drought, they still need regular hydration to stay healthy.

Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger; if it’s dry, it’s time to water. Use a moisture meter for accuracy, and make sure excess water drains completely. Avoid leaving pots in puddles, as this can lead to root rot.

Inadequate Lighting Conditions

a succulent with wilted, elongated stems and pale, faded leaves, placed in a shaded corner of a room with a small, obstructed window, dimly lit with soft, diffuse natural light

Now that you’ve mastered the art of watering your succulents, it’s time to shine a light on another common mistake that can hinder their growth: providing inadequate lighting conditions.

Most succulents thrive in bright, direct sunlight, but you might be unknowingly depriving them of the light they need. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and a loss of vibrant colors.

To avoid this, check your plant tags for specific lighting requirements. If your home is dimly lit, consider investing in grow lights to supplement the natural light.

Some succulents, like snake plants, can tolerate low light, but they’re the exception rather than the rule.

Poor Plant Grouping Decisions

cluttered indoor shelf with succulents of varying sizes and light requirements grouped together, some over-shading others, with a few plants stretching towards a nearby window.

Grouping your succulents with other plants without considering their unique care requirements can lead to disappointing results and even harm the health of your succulents.

You might be tempted to create a lush display by combining succulents with other plants, but this can be a recipe for disaster.

Succulents have specific needs, such as infrequent watering and high light, that may not be compatible with other plants.

For example, pairing succulents with ferns or peace lilies, which prefer moist soil and low light, can lead to overwatering and root rot.

To avoid this, group your succulents with other plants that have similar care requirements, such as cacti or other drought-tolerant plants.

This will guarantee that all your plants thrive and receive the care they need.

Conclusion

Now that you know the most common mistakes to avoid, take a fresh look at your indoor succulents.

Check your container choices, watering methods, and lighting conditions to guarantee they meet your plants’ specific needs.

Also, reconsider plant groupings that may be compromising their health.

We also have a full guide here on how to save a dying succulent.

By making a few simple adjustments, you can create an environment where your succulents will thrive.

With proper care, they’ll reward you with vibrant colors, unique shapes, and low-maintenance companionship.

5 Common Mistakes You Probably Make With Your Indoor Succulents