Why your succulents fail (& how to fix it!)
Let’s start with what you’re going to need (transparency disclaimer: if you buy through the links shared below, I earn a small commission)
1. A terracotta pot (with no coatings applied to inside)[2 for $5 @ Dollar General]
2. Potting mix [8 qts for $5 at Dollar Tree or $5.50 at Walmart]
3. Organic pearlite [2 qts for $8 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4gkKWZO]
4. Repotting mat (optional-but handy!) [$6 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47A5mvk]
5. Your store bought succulents (venture to the clearance section!)[$5 at Walmart]
NOW…Ever wonder “why do my succulents keep passing on to greener pastures?” 👀 The reason, I discovered, is the same as is why your Venus Flytrap won’t succeed either; Most store succulents fail because of how they’re sold. Here’s the issues:
1️⃣ Plastic containers hold too much water → succulents need fast drainage, but plastic pots trap moisture and cause succulent root rot.
2️⃣ Compacted nursery soil → that dense peat moss is perfect for shipping, but terrible for succulent care. It suffocates roots and makes succulents mushy.
3️⃣ Oversized pots with too much soil → when there’s more soil than roots, it stays wet for weeks, which is the number 1 reason for succulent problems and failure.
✨ How to fix it (Beginner Succulent Tips):
✅ Repot into terracotta pots for airflow + quick drying.
✅ Use a proper succulent soil mix (I do 1:1 potting soil + perlite, or add pumice/LECA chunks).
✅ Water using the “soak and dry” method → deep water, then wait until soil is completely dry before watering again. Do this about 5 days after repotting. Otherwise, you risk losing them to root rot because of transplant shock.. they’re too stressed to drink!
👉 I’ve added pictures with quick succulent care tips that will save your plants, prevent succulent root rot, and help your succulents actually thrive instead of raising a white flag in a month. The pot was a hand-painted gift from my SO specifically for these succulents. I loved it and think it gives it some personality.
#succulents #gardeningtipsforbeginners #repotting #gardeningforbeginners #planttips
If you've ever struggled with keeping your succulents alive, understanding the key reasons behind their failure can save you a lot of frustration. One major factor is the type of pot you use. Plastic containers tend to hold excess moisture, creating a damp environment that succulents dislike. These plants prefer airy soil conditions and fast draining pots such as terracotta, which help absorb excess moisture and promote healthy roots. Another problem is compacted nursery soil. While peat moss-based soil is great for shipping succulents, it doesn't allow roots to breathe. This suffocates the roots and leads to mushy, unhealthy plants. Mixing your potting soil with organic perlite or pumice improves drainage and aeration, mimicking the succulent’s natural environment. Additionally, oversized pots can retain too much wet soil, especially when the root system is small. Succulents thrive when their roots have enough space but aren’t overwhelmed by wet soil. Using appropriately sized pots prevents prolonged dampness that invites root rot. After repotting your succulents into terracotta pots with a 1:1 mixture of potting soil and perlite, use the "soak and dry" watering technique. Water deeply and then let the soil dry completely before watering again, usually about five days after repotting. This approach helps prevent transplant shock—which can make succulents too stressed to absorb water—and reduces the risk of root rot. When repotting, gently expose and stretch out the roots, removing about 80% of old soil so the plant can establish well in fresh, well-draining soil. Remember to avoid covering the succulent’s stems with soil, as they prefer being slightly crowded but exposed. By using these practical tips and understanding the natural preferences of succulents for dry, airy soil and proper drainage, you can transform your gardening experience. Soon, your plants will thrive and no longer seem to "raise the white flag" just weeks after bringing them home.
