Introduction

As beloved additions to indoor and outdoor gardens, succulents are known for their ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. However, just like any living plant, they can face various challenges that may cause them to wither or die. This article delves into the most common reasons succulents die and offers practical tips to help you keep your succulents healthy.

Over-Watering: The Silent Killer

Over-watering is one of the most frequent issues that can lead to succulent demise. These plants are adapted to thrive in arid environments, storing water in their tissues during periods of drought. When watered excessively, succulents become susceptible to root rot, which can quickly spread to the rest of the plant, leading to its death.

Key Points:

Water only once every week or two, ensuring the soil is thoroughly dry between waterings. Avoid very soggy soil, as it attracts pests and fungal diseases. Use a potting mix specifically designed for succulents or amend regular soil with sand, well-rotted compost, or peat moss.

Insufficient Sunlight: The Stretching Out Syndrome

Lack of adequate sunlight can cause succulents to become etiolated, or stretched out, leading to a less attractive appearance and a weakened state that can eventually result in death. While most succulents can tolerate a range of light conditions, inadequate exposure to sunlight over time can be detrimental.

Key Actions:

Move your succulents to a spot with plenty of natural light, ensuring they receive at least 6 hours of indirect or direct sunlight daily. In case of etiolation, cut off the head and propagate new plants from cuttings.

Uncommon Culprits of Succulent Death

Besides over-watering and insufficient sunlight, other factors can contribute to a succulent's demise. These include
pest infestations, particularly by mealybugs, scale insects, and fungus gnats, as well as soil contamination due to the use of certain specialty displays or potted rocks. Additionally, animals such as snails, deer, or rats may nibble on succulents, and some plants may be sensitive to pesticides or sprays.

The Danger of Freeze Damage and Sunburn

Abiotic factors such as freeze damage and sunburn also pose threats to the health of your succulents.

Freeze Damage:

Prevent indoor succulents from exposure to cold drafts or windows during cold weather. Cover outdoor succulents with a cotton sheet on nights when temperatures dip near freezing. Self-healing is common if the freeze is not severe, and the cactus usually outgrows the damage within a few years.

Sunburn:

Gradually acclimate indoor succulents to full sunlight. Plant cacti in the same direction as they were previously oriented. Avoid sudden exposure without a period of acclimation.

Conclusion

Proper care and attention can significantly extend the life of your succulents. By avoiding common pitfalls and understanding the specific needs of these plants, you can ensure their health and longevity. Regular monitoring, appropriate watering and sunlight, and taking care to address any issues early on will go a long way in keeping your succulents thriving.