1. Overwatering in the Heat
One of the biggest and most common mistakes is overwatering. Many plant lovers assume that the heat means their succulents need more water—but that’s not true.
Succulents are drought-tolerant by nature. In summer, they actually go through a period of dormancy to protect themselves from the intense heat. During this time, they grow slower and need less water, not more.
Tip: Only water when the soil is completely dry. Stick your finger an inch into the soil—if it feels dry, it’s safe to water. And always make sure the pot has good drainage.
2. Leaving Them in Direct Afternoon Sun
Yes, succulents love the sun—but even they have their limits. In the peak summer heat, especially during the harsh afternoon hours, the sun can scorch the leaves of your succulents, causing sunburn. You’ll notice brown, crispy patches on their leaves if this happens.
Tip: Give your succulents some morning sun and move them to partial shade in the afternoon. If they’re outdoors, place them in an area where they get filtered light or under a shade cloth during the hottest part of the day.
3. Using the Wrong Soil
Summer heat can make poor soil choices even worse. If your succulents are planted in soil that holds too much moisture, it can lead to root rot—a silent killer. Regular potting soil is usually too dense and holds water longer than succulent roots can handle.
Tip: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. You can also make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or pumice to help improve drainage.
4. Not Adjusting for Humidity
If you live in a humid area, summer can bring high moisture levels in the air—even if you’re not watering often. Humidity can make it harder for the soil to dry out and increase the risk of fungal issues or rot.
Tip: Increase airflow around your succulents by spacing them out and using fans if they’re indoors. Avoid crowding them together, especially in containers. Consider using terra cotta pots, which allow the soil to dry faster than plastic ones.
5. Ignoring Signs of Stress
During the summer, succulents can show signs of stress—like changing color, dropping leaves, or looking “shriveled.” These are signs that something isn’t right. It could be too much sun, not enough water, or poor soil conditions. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious problems quickly.
Tip: Check your succulents regularly. If something looks off, don’t panic— just observe and adjust. Move them to a shadier spot, check the roots, or water more mindfully. Being proactive makes a big difference.
Succulents are incredibly resilient, but even they need a little extra care during the hot summer months. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can help your succulents survive and even thrive through the season.
- Water only when dry
- Protect from strong afternoon sun
- Use fast-draining soil
- Watch for humidity issues
- Pay attention to stress signals
With just a few mindful tweaks to your summer plant care routine, you’ll enjoy healthy, happy succulents that keep growing strong. Stay cool and happy planting!
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