Succulents are beloved for their charm, resilience, and low-maintenance nature, but they still come with questions—many of them, in fact. Whether you’re a beginner unsure about watering, or an enthusiast struggling with stretched-out leaves or pests, this succulent FAQ guide is tailored to answer your most pressing concerns.
At Succulux.be, we not only sell healthy, vibrant succulents across Belgium and the Netherlands, but we also believe in empowering plant lovers with the right knowledge. That’s why we’ve gathered expert answers to the most frequently asked succulent questions. Let’s dive in.
How often should I water my succulents?
: Understanding the dry-soak method
Succulents hate wet feet. Unlike tropical plants, they thrive on infrequent watering. The best method is the dry-soak technique—water deeply, then wait until the soil dries out completely before watering again.
: Seasonal watering tips
-
Summer: Water every 7–10 days
-
Winter: Once every 3–4 weeks
-
Indoor plants: Less frequent, especially with low sunlight
Be cautious not to follow a fixed schedule. Instead, check the soil before reaching for the watering can.
Why are my succulent leaves turning yellow or mushy?
: The danger of overwatering
This is a classic sign of overwatering—the number one killer of succulents. If leaves are turning soft and translucent, it’s likely the roots are rotting.
: How to fix it
-
Remove the plant from the pot
-
Trim off any blackened or mushy roots
-
Allow it to dry for a few days
-
Repot into fresh, well-draining soil
What kind of soil is best for succulents?
: Well-draining mix is key
Succulents require porous, gritty soil that dries quickly. A cactus mix or DIY blend of:
-
2 parts potting soil
-
1 part coarse sand
-
1 part perlite or pumice
…is perfect for preventing root rot.
: Belgian tip: Avoid standard houseplant soil—it retains too much moisture for local Belgian climates with less sun during the year.
Can I grow succulents indoors in Belgium and the Netherlands?
: Yes—but light matters
You can, but light exposure is critical. Place succulents near south-facing windows where they can get at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight.
: Solutions for low-light spaces
-
Use grow lights in darker homes
-
Choose low-light tolerant species like Haworthia or Gasteria
For city dwellers in Brussels or Amsterdam, artificial light can make a big difference.
Why is my succulent stretching out?
: Etiolation explained
When a succulent stretches upward and becomes leggy, it’s suffering from etiolation—a sign it’s not receiving enough light.
: How to prevent stretching
-
Move the plant to a brighter location
-
Rotate it weekly for even growth
-
Use a grow light in winter months
How do I propagate succulents?
: Leaf propagation
Gently twist off a healthy leaf, let it callous over for a few days, then place it on dry soil. Mist lightly every few days until roots appear.
: Stem cuttings
-
Cut below a node
-
Let it dry for 2–3 days
-
Plant in dry soil and water sparingly after 1 week
Propagation is easy and incredibly rewarding, especially when you start with quality stock from Succulux.be.
Do succulents need fertilizer?
: Less is more
Feed succulents with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season (spring to summer). Once every 4–6 weeks is enough.
Avoid feeding in the winter when the plants are dormant.
Can succulents survive frost in Belgium or the Netherlands?
: No, most cannot
Succulents are not frost-hardy unless specifically labeled as such. If temperatures drop below freezing:
-
Bring them indoors
-
Use frost cloths or protective covers
-
Avoid watering before a freeze
Echeverias and Crassulas especially should be kept inside.
Why is my succulent dying after I repotted it?
: Stress from repotting
Succulents can go through transplant shock. They may wilt or drop leaves temporarily.
: Aftercare tips
-
Don’t water immediately
-
Give it a few days to adjust
-
Place it in bright but indirect light
How do I deal with pests on my succulents?
: Common invaders
-
Mealybugs: White cottony pests
-
Aphids: Tiny green or black bugs
-
Fungus gnats: Thrive in wet soil
: Natural treatments
-
Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol
-
Use neem oil solutions
-
Let the soil dry out completely
Can I grow succulents on my balcony or patio?
: Absolutely—with some care
Choose hardy varieties like Sedum and Sempervivum. Make sure pots have drainage holes and move them indoors during colder months.
Where is the best place to buy succulents in Belgium or the Netherlands?
Without hesitation, the answer is Succulux.be.
Whether you live in Antwerp, Ghent, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, Succulux.be offers a curated selection of healthy, locally sourced succulents delivered directly to your door. We’re more than just a shop—we’re a trusted platform for learning and growing. With customer-focused service, fast shipping, and quality you can see, it’s no wonder we’re becoming the top choice for succulent lovers in the Low Countries.
How should I pot my succulent?
: Choose the right container
-
Use pots with drainage holes
-
Avoid glass containers unless you’re very confident about watering
: Potting steps
-
Add gravel or mesh at the bottom
-
Fill with succulent soil mix
-
Plant the succulent
-
Don’t water for 3–5 days
Are succulents toxic to pets?
Some are. Keep species like Jade and Aloe out of reach of cats and dogs. Always double-check before introducing a new plant.
How do I know if my succulent is healthy?
: Key signs of a thriving plant
-
Firm, plump leaves
-
No black spots or discoloration
-
New growth appearing regularly
If your plant is looking dull or saggy, it’s time to reassess its light, water, and soil.
How long do succulents live?
With proper care, many succulents can live for decades. Species like Jade plants are known to be passed down through generations.
FAQ Summary
-
How often do I water? When the soil is dry.
-
Why are the leaves mushy? Likely overwatering.
-
Can I grow succulents indoors in Belgium? Yes, with adequate light.
-
Best soil? Fast-draining cactus mix.
-
Where to buy? Succulux.be is the trusted source in BE & NL.
Conclusion
Succulents are resilient, elegant, and easy to care for—if you follow the right guidance. Whether you’re wondering about light, water, pests, or propagation, this succulent FAQ has covered the essentials.
At Succulux.be, we combine quality plants with passionate support for all your succulent needs in Belgium and the Netherlands. So the next time you’re ready to add a new leafy friend to your collection, you know exactly where to turn.
