Tips for Outdoor Succulents
Outdoor succulents do enjoy a drink of rain, but too much water is risky. The key is good drainage and protection:
- Choose well-draining soil: Mix soil with sand, gravel, pumice or perlite so water does not sit around the roots. Terracotta pots help too, since they let excess moisture escape.
- Cover or move plants: When heavy storms are expected, shield succulents with an umbrella, tarp or move potted plants under a porch. This prevents them from getting drenched.
- Elevate and slope planting areas: If you have succulents in the ground, plant on a slight slope or mound so rainwater runs off. You can also dig small trenches to channel water away.
- Prune and remove debris: Trim away any rotting stems or dead leaves, and clear away plant debris. This keeps moisture from hiding around the base of your plants and reduces fungal problems.
- Empty saucers and wipe leaves: After heavy rain, tip out water from saucers under pots and wipe water off leaves. Succulents will suffer if they sit in puddles.
- Avoid poor containers: Don’t leave succulents in pots without drainage holes; they drown without a way for water to escape. Also, metal or plastic planters can retain moisture or rust – clay pots are best.
- Watch for pests: Wet weather brings slugs and snails. If pests chew leaves, use pet-safe slug bait or hand-pick them at night.
Tips for Indoor Succulents
Indoor succulents won’t get rainfall, but the season can still affect them. Rooms may be more humid and darker. Here’s how to help them thrive:
- Water sparingly: Because indoor humidity tends to rise in rainy weather, the soil will stay moist longer. Only water your succulents when the soil is completely dry.
- Provide bright light: Rainy days can be dull. Place your succulents in a sunny window or use a grow light so they get enough light to stay healthy.
- Improve air circulation: Good airflow prevents mold and fungus. You can open a window or use a small fan to keep the air moving around your plants.
- Avoid leaf wetness: Don’t mist your succulents during the rainy season. Keeping leaves dry prevents fungal issues.
- Check pots and drainage: Make sure indoor pots have drainage holes and that saucers aren’t holding water. If excess water collects, empty it out to keep roots from staying too wet.
- Use stored rainwater: If you collected rainwater outside, it’s wonderful for plants. It’s free of chemicals and rich in natural nutrients. Use it to water your indoor succulents (once it’s settled) instead of tap water.
Conclusion
The rainy season doesn’t have to be stressful for your succulents. By using fast-draining soil, adjusting watering, and protecting plants from heavy downpours, you can help succulents stay healthy and even enjoy the occasional rain “shower.” In fact, a light rain can wash dust off leaves and give them a lovely fresh look. Just keep an eye out for too much moisture – if you follow these friendly tips, your succulents will ride out the rains and bounce back happily when the sun returns.







