How Often to Water Succulents Indoors and Outdoors

Watering succulents correctly is essential to keeping these drought-tolerant plants healthy. Due to their ability to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, succulents require less frequent watering than most plants. However, understanding the right frequency depends on several factors such as the type of succulent, season, potting mix, and environmental conditions. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of when and how to water your succulents, ensuring they thrive indoors and outdoors.

Factors Influencing Succulent Watering Frequency

Type of Succulents

Succulents vary in their watering requirements based on their ability to store water and sensitivity to moisture.

Aloe, Jade Plants (Crassula), and Echeveria: These succulents have thick, fleshy leaves that act as natural water reservoirs, allowing them to tolerate longer periods between waterings without stress. Their drought tolerance makes them well-suited for drier environments or for gardeners who may forget to water regularly.

Haworthia and Living stones (Lithops): These succulents are more sensitive to overwatering than other types. They prefer less frequent watering because their roots are prone to rot if exposed to too much moisture. Adapted to very dry conditions, these plants thrive when the soil dries out quickly, and overwatering can be particularly harmful.

Seasonal Changes

Succulents have active growing seasons (spring and summer) and dormant periods (fall and winter). During active growth, they require more water because they are actively producing new leaves or roots. In winter, when many succulents go dormant, they need much less water—perhaps just once a month.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Conditions

Outdoor succulents exposed to more light, wind, and higher temperatures typically need more frequent watering than those grown indoors. Indoor succulents, especially in cooler or more humid environments, require less water since the evaporation rate is slower.

Succulent Soil and Drainage

Succulents thrive in well-draining soil. Soil that retains moisture can cause root rot if the plant is overwatered. Using a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite ensures quick drainage, reducing the need for frequent watering.

Container Type and Size

Succulents in terra cotta pots dry out faster than those in plastic or glazed pots because the porous nature of terra cotta allows water to evaporate more quickly. Smaller pots also dry out faster, requiring more frequent watering.

Desert Rose – Adenium obesum

Watering Schedule: General Guidelines

Spring and Summer (Active Growth):
Water every 7 to 10 days. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to prevent overwatering.

Fall and Winter (Dormancy):
Water every 3 to 4 weeks, or even less if the environment is humid. During dormancy, succulents require minimal moisture to avoid rot.

Indoor Succulents:
Water approximately every 10 to 14 days. Monitor the soil moisture to ensure it dries between waterings.

Outdoor Succulents:
In warm, dry climates, water every 5 to 7 days. In cooler or more humid conditions, water every 2 to 3 weeks.

String of Pearls – Senecio rowleyanus

How to Water Succulents Correctly

Soak and Dry Method
The “soak and dry” method is the best way to water succulents. It involves soaking the soil thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s holes, then waiting for the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

Avoid Overhead Watering
To keep succulents healthy, it’s best to avoid watering directly on the leaves, as excess moisture on foliage can promote rot or fungal issues. Instead, water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the roots where it is needed most.

Check Soil Moisture Before Watering
Always test the moisture level by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait a few more days.

Signs You’re Overwatering or Underwatering

Overwatered Succulents

• Leaves appear swollen, soft, or mushy.
• The plant becomes discolored, often yellow or brown.
• Roots may develop rot, and leaves may drop off easily.

Underwatered Succulents

• Leaves look shriveled and wrinkled.
• The plant stops growing, and older leaves may turn crispy or dry.
• In extreme cases, the plant may go into dormancy as a survival strategy.

Adjusting Watering for Special Conditions

• High Humidity:
  Water less frequently since moisture in the air slows down soil drying.
• Low Light:
  Succulents in low light need less water as they use water more slowly.
• Heatwaves:
  In extreme heat, water more frequently to prevent dehydration.

Aloe vera (Barbados Aloe)

Watering Succulent Arrangements and Terrariums

Succulents planted in arrangements or terrariums may require less frequent watering since these setups typically have more restricted airflow. Use a watering can with a narrow spout or a spray bottle to avoid overwatering and ensure the water reaches the roots.

Succulents in arrangements or terrariums require careful watering, as these enclosed or clustered setups limit airflow, slowing down the drying process. With less air circulation, the soil in these environments can stay moist longer, increasing the risk of overwatering and root rot.

When watering, a watering can with a narrow spout or squeeze bottle allows precise control, ensuring water reaches the soil and roots without wetting the leaves. This approach helps avoid moisture-related diseases and fungal issues. In closed terrariums, water sparingly and monitor humidity levels to prevent condensation buildup.

For open arrangements, watering once every 2-3 weeks is usually sufficient, depending on environmental conditions. Always check the soil moisture before watering—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. Remember, succulents thrive on the soak-and-dry method to mimic their natural arid habitats.

Common Watering Mistakes

Using the Wrong Soil: Regular potting soil retains too much moisture, causing root rot. Always use a well-draining succulent mix.

Overwatering in Dormancy: Reduce watering in fall and winter to match the plant’s needs.

Inadequate Drainage: Pots without drainage holes increase the risk of overwatering and root rot. Always use containers with proper drainage.

Christmas Cactus – Schlumbergera x buckleyi

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should You Water Indoor Succulents?

Indoor succulents generally need watering every 10 to 14 days during the growing season (spring and summer). In winter, when they go dormant, watering should be reduced to once a month or even less. Always ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to prevent root rot​

How Do You Know When a Succulent Needs Water?

A succulent needing water shows clear signs, such as wrinkled or shriveled leaves, soft or slightly drooping foliage, lack of firmness in the leaves. Check the soil also—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. Well-hydrated succulents have plump, firm leaves​.

Should Succulents Be Misted or Watered?

Succulents should be watered directly at the base, not misted. Misting can promote fungal growth and rot on leaves. The roots, not the leaves, are responsible for absorbing water, making the soak-and-dry method ideal for healthy succulent care​.

Do Succulents Need to Be in Direct Sunlight?

Yes, most succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight or direct sun for a few hours daily. However, prolonged exposure to intense afternoon sun, especially indoors, can cause sunburn. Succulents like Echeveria and Aloe prefer brighter conditions, while others, such as Haworthia, tolerate lower light​.

What Does a Succulent Look Like When It Needs More Sun?

When a succulent lacks sunlight, it may exhibit leggy growth (stretched stems and widely spaced leaves), pale or dull coloration, and the plant may lean toward the light source. This condition, called etiolation, indicates the plant is trying to reach for more light.

How Long Can a Succulent Go Without Water?

Succulents can typically survive several weeks to months without water, depending on the type and environment. In cooler conditions, some can go up to 3 months, but in hot weather, they may need water every 1-2 weeks. Succulents like Aloe can survive longer without water than those like Haworthia.