Succulents and cacti are the ultimate plant companions for indoor gardeners. They’re low-maintenance, stylish, and resilient. Yet, even the most seasoned plant enthusiasts can run into issues when caring for these desert darlings. Whether you’re a proud green-thumb based in Belgium or the Netherlands, or you’re new to indoor gardening, you might be unintentionally making a few common mistakes that impact the health of your plants.
This guide highlights the five most frequent mistakes indoor gardeners make when caring for succulents and cacti, and how you can fix them to keep your plants thriving.
Overwatering: The Silent Killer
Watering succulents and cacti can be tricky. Unlike most houseplants, succulents and cacti are designed to survive in arid conditions and store water in their thick, fleshy leaves. Overwatering is one of the top mistakes gardeners make. Even with good intentions, too much water can lead to root rot, which is often fatal.
How to Tell if You’re Overwatering
- Soft, mushy leaves are a clear sign. Healthy leaves should be firm and plump.
- Leaf discoloration (yellowing or translucent leaves) often indicates too much moisture.
- Odor from the soil might suggest rotting roots, a surefire sign of overwatering.
How to Water Succulents and Cacti Properly
- Adapt to their needs: Water only when the soil is completely dry. For most indoor succulents and cacti, this could mean watering as little as once every 2–3 weeks, depending on the season.
- Use the “soak and dry” method: Water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom, then allow the soil to dry fully before watering again.
By watering sparingly, you’re mimicking the natural conditions of these desert plants, reducing the risk of overwatering issues.
Insufficient Light: More Than Just a Sunny Spot
Insufficient light is another common mistake when caring for succulents and cacti. While they’re not all sun worshippers, most species thrive with plenty of bright, indirect light. If your succulents are starting to look “off,” they could be suffering from poor lighting conditions.
Signs Your Succulents and Cacti Needs More Light
- Stretching (etiolation): Long, leggy growth with widely spaced leaves is a giveaway that your succulent isn’t getting enough light.
- Color fading: Succulents lose their vibrant hues and turn pale when deprived of sufficient light.
- Weak stems: Thin, floppy stems indicate lower light levels than what your plant needs.
Lighting Solutions
- Place plants near a bright window: South or east-facing windows are ideal; ensure they receive 4–6 hours of light daily.
- Rotate regularly: Turn your plants every few weeks to ensure even light exposure.
- Supplement with grow lights: If natural light is limited (especially during winter in Belgium or the Netherlands), consider full-spectrum LED grow lights to keep your plants thriving.
Poor Soil Choices for Succulents and Cacti
Succulents and cacti won’t survive in just any soil. Regular potting mix holds too much moisture, which can be harmful to these plants. Poorly draining soil keeps roots soggy, reducing oxygen and increasing the risk of disease.
The Ideal Soil for Succulents and Cacti
- Well-draining mix: Choose a cactus or succulent-specific potting mix, or make your own by combining 2 parts potting soil, 1 part sand, and 1 part perlite or pumice.
- Aeration is key: Sand and perlite improve air circulation around the roots, ensuring they stay healthy and dry.
Additional Tips
- If repotting your plants or transferring them to a new home, always inspect the roots and trim away any signs of rot before adding fresh soil.
Inadequate Drainage for Succulents and Cacti
Even with the perfect soil mix, poor drainage can sabotage your succulents and cacti. Many indoor gardeners unknowingly use pots without drainage holes, which can trap water and promote root rot.
Why Drainage Matters
Succulents and cacti depend on quick-draining conditions to mimic their natural environments. Without proper drainage, the water can’t escape, and roots are left sitting in soggy conditions for too long.
Fixing Drainage Issues
- Always use pots with drainage holes: This is non-negotiable for healthy succulents and cacti. The holes allow excess water to escape, avoiding any pooling at the bottom.
- Add a drainage layer: Before adding soil, place a thin layer of gravel, pumice, or coarse sand at the bottom of the pot. This helps water move through the soil more efficiently.
- Avoid decorative pot traps: If you’re using a decorative outer pot without holes, make sure your plant sits in a separate inner pot with drainage.
Pro Tip
If you must use a pot without holes, water your plant even more conservatively to avoid water buildup. However, plants living in pots with proper drainage will always be happier.
Wrapping It Up
Caring for succulents and cacti doesn’t have to be difficult. By fixing these common mistakes, you’ll not only help your plants thrive, but you’ll also take your indoor gardening game to the next level. Here’s a quick recap:
- Avoid overwatering by practicing the “soak and dry” method.
- Ensure your succulents receive enough bright, indirect light.
- Invest in the right soil mix designed for succulents and cacti.
- Use pots with proper drainage to keep roots healthy and happy.
By addressing these areas, your succulents and cacti will reward you with vibrant growth and stunning beauty. Whether you’re in Belgium, the Netherlands, or beyond, happy plants equal happy gardeners!
Remember, gardening is a learning experience. Every mishap is another step toward mastering your craft. If you’re looking for more tips and advice, stay tuned to our blog for resources that can help you perfect the art of indoor gardening.
