If you’re a beginner, we highly recommend using pots with drainage holes. Though it is possible to grow succulents in pots without drainage holes, the risk of rot is much higher as water may sit at the bottom of the pot and keep the soil wet for an extended amount of time. It also takes more effort and expertise as you have to carefully monitor the watering schedule and the amount of water needed to keep the succulents in their best shape and health. Luckily, you can add drainage holes to most containers with a diamond tip drill bit. For glass containers, you can add a layer of pebble and charcoal to encourage good drainage.
Terracotta pot with drainage hole | Click here to purchase
Succulents rot easily if they sit in water for too long. It is extremely important to provide fast draining soil that doesn’t retain water to allow the roots to breathe. Using fast draining soil + pot with drainage holes allows you to be more carefree when watering your succulents. Fast draining soil designed specifically for succulents and cacti can be easily found in local garden centers or home improvement stores at an affordable price. You can also create your own soil mix by simply mixing light, porous potting soil + fluffy materials such as perlite or pumice.
Some succulent species need more water than others. Most will have wrinkles and dropping leaves when they need more water. But you should not water your succulents too often. Generally, simply check the top of the soil, if it’s completely dry, it’s time to water. Make sure to thoroughly soak the soil and then give it some time to dry out. Don't water it again until the soil becomes completely dry.
It’s always better to underwater than overwater. Therefore, for beginners, we recommend that you water once every 2 weeks at first, then observe your succulents’ reactions and adjust the watering schedule accordingly. Learning to tell if your succulents are overwatered or underwatered might seem daunting but it can be done.
For most plants and succulents, the best type of water to use is rain water or distilled water. Tap water often contain lots of mineral like magnesium or calcium that can build up in the soil or appear on the leaves as white dot. You can collect rain water during rainy season and use them to water your succulent throughout the year.
Watering bottle | Click here to purchase
Don't hesitate to comment below if you have any questions for us on watering techniques. We would also love to learn effective ways you use to keep your succulents happy and healthy.
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