🌵 10 Common Succulent Problems and How to Fix Them | Plant Graft
Succulents are hardy, low-maintenance plants, but even they can run into problems if not cared for correctly. At Plant Graft, we supply premium grafted succulents and luxury plants, and we’ve seen the most common issues succulent growers face. Here’s a complete guide to 10 common succulent problems and how to fix them.
1. Overwatering (Root Rot)
- Problem: Leaves turn mushy, translucent, and roots rot.
- Fix: Remove the plant from wet soil, cut off rotted roots, and repot in well-draining soil.
2. Underwatering (Shriveled Leaves)
- Problem: Leaves look wrinkled and dry.
- Fix: Water thoroughly using the soak-and-dry method.
3. Lack of Sunlight (Stretching/Etoliation)
- Problem: Stems grow tall, thin, and leaves spread apart.
- Fix: Move to a bright spot with at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily.
4. Sunburn
- Problem: Brown, dry patches on leaves due to intense sun.
- Fix: Move plant to partial shade, especially during hot afternoons.
5. Pests (Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites)
- Problem: White cotton-like spots, sticky leaves, or webbing.
- Fix: Wipe with neem oil solution or spray with mild insecticidal soap.
6. Wrong Soil Mix
- Problem: Soil holds too much water, leading to root damage.
- Fix: Use a succulent mix (potting soil + coarse sand + perlite).
7. Improper Pot (No Drainage Hole)
- Problem: Water stays trapped at the bottom.
- Fix: Always use pots with drainage holes. Add pebbles at the base.
8. Leaf Drop
- Problem: Leaves fall off suddenly due to stress or overwatering.
- Fix: Check watering schedule, provide stable sunlight and temperature.
9. Fungal Infections
- Problem: Black spots or mold appear on leaves/soil.
- Fix: Improve airflow, avoid water on leaves, use fungicide if needed.
10. Slow or No Growth
- Problem: Succulent stays the same size for months.
- Fix: Provide balanced fertilizer once a month in growing season (spring/summer).
📊 Quick Reference Table
| Problem | Symptom | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Overwatering | Mushy leaves, root rot | Repot in dry, well-draining soil |
| Underwatering | Wrinkled, shriveled leaves | Water deeply using soak-and-dry method |
| Lack of sunlight | Stretching, thin growth | Move to bright spot (4–6 hrs sunlight) |
| Sunburn | Brown, dry patches | Shift to partial shade |
| Pests | White cotton, sticky leaves | Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Wrong soil | Roots not healthy | Use sandy, gritty soil mix |
| No drainage pot | Waterlogging | Use pots with drainage holes |
| Leaf drop | Leaves falling suddenly | Adjust watering and sunlight |
| Fungal infection | Black spots, mold | Improve airflow, apply fungicide |
| Slow growth | No new leaves/stems | Fertilize in growing season |
🌱 Conclusion
By identifying these problems early, you can save your succulents and keep them thriving. With proper soil, watering, sunlight, and pest control, succulents will reward you with healthy growth.
👉 Want high-quality succulents that grow beautifully? Buy succulents online from Plant Graft and start your collection today!