The Golden Rule: Soak and Dry

Succulents store water in their leaves, stems and roots to survive drought. They are adapted to periods of drought followed by heavy rain — not constant moisture. The correct watering technique mimics this: water thoroughly so moisture reaches the roots, then wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. This is the single most important principle.

How to Water Correctly

  1. 1

    Check the soil is completely dry before watering

    Push your finger 3–4cm into the soil. If there is any moisture at all, wait. The soil must be dry all the way through — not just on the surface. A skewer or chopstick inserted deeply can help assess moisture at depth.

  2. 2

    Water deeply at the base of the plant

    When you do water, water thoroughly — pour until water flows freely from the drainage holes. This ensures the entire root system gets moisture. Shallow watering only wets the top of the soil and encourages weak surface roots.

  3. 3

    Empty the saucer after 30 minutes

    Pour away any water that has collected in the saucer. Succulents sitting in water rot very quickly. The drainage hole must be able to work freely.

  4. 4

    Reduce watering drastically in winter

    In winter, most succulents go dormant or grow very slowly. They need very little water — sometimes only once per month. Overwatering in winter is the most common cause of succulent death. When in doubt, do not water.

Signs of Over and Underwatering

  • Overwatering: Soft, mushy, translucent or yellow leaves. Leaves drop with light touch. Stem is soft at the base. The plant looks swollen. Root rot (dark mushy roots if you unpot).
  • Underwatering: Wrinkled, shrivelled leaves. Leaves feel thin rather than plump. The plant looks deflated. Soil pulls away from the pot edges.
Drainage is non-negotiableSucculents must be in pots with drainage holes. No matter how carefully you water, a pot without drainage will eventually waterlog the roots and kill the plant. Decorative pots without holes should be used as outer sleeves only, with the succulent in a plastic pot with drainage inside it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Often yes, if caught early. Remove from the pot and inspect the roots — trim off any black, mushy roots with clean scissors. Let the plant and remaining roots dry for 2–3 days before repotting in fresh, dry succulent mix. Do not water for 1–2 weeks after repotting. If the stem at the base is soft and mushy, the rot has reached the main stem and recovery is unlikely.
Yes — succulents need well-draining, gritty soil. Standard potting mix retains too much moisture. Buy a dedicated succulent and cactus mix, or make your own by mixing 50% standard potting mix with 50% coarse sand, perlite or pumice. The mix should drain freely when watered — water should flow through within a few seconds, not sit on top.