Here’s How To Bring Your Succulent Back To Life And Help It Thrive Again After Overwatering, Underwatering, Leaf Burn, Or Battling Pests
Succulents are often hailed as the low-maintenance wonders of the plant world, able to thrive on neglect and minimal water. Yet, even these hardy little plants can fall victim to the very same conditions they’re known for enduring.
But whether you inherited a succulent that’s seen better days or your green thumb hasn’t been up to par lately, there’s no need to worry. You can actually revive succulents, and it’s not as difficult as it might seem.
So, with just a few tweaks to your care routine, you can totally coax your plant back to life and help it thrive again.
Signs Your Succulent Needs Some Help
The first step in succulent CPR is recognizing the distressed SOS signals. If your plant has become a bit too leggy, its leaves are turning yellow or falling off, or it’s showing signs of squishiness and rot, it’s definitely time to intervene.
These are some pretty clear indicators that your succulent isn’t living its best life and needs a little extra TLC to get back on track. Here’s everything you need to know about reviving these plants, whether they fell victim to overwatering, underwatering, leaf burn, or pests.
Reviving An Overwatered Succulent
Overwatering is the arch-nemesis of succulent care. This habit can lead to root rot, which is a tricky situation that requires immediate attention.
First, you should stop watering your plant entirely and let the soil dry out. If the plant is severely affected, you may also have to repot it in fresh, dry soil.
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Just be sure to remove any mushy, blackened roots before replanting. Also, pick a pot with adequate drainage and use a well-draining soil mix to prevent overwatering mishaps in the future.
Saving An Underwatered Succulent
Yes, succulents are drought-resistant, but they do need water to survive. So, underwatering is a common issue, but thankfully, it’s also an easy fix.
If the leaves are looking shriveled and dry, it’s time to quench your plant’s thirst. Give your succulent a thorough soaking, allowing water to run through the drainage hole at the bottom of your plant pot.
Then, wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. Also, remember that consistency is key, meaning a regular watering schedule will help prevent future dehydration episodes.
Reviving A Succulent From Leaf Burn
Succulents love light, but too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf burn, which is characterized by discolored or crispy leaves.
If your plant is showing signs of sun distress, be sure to move it to a spot with indirect light. Then, you can gradually reintroduce it to brighter conditions to avoid further stress.
Remember, a little shade is not a sign of defeat. It’s a strategic retreat for recovery.
Saving Your Succulent From Pests
Pests such as mealybugs and spider mites can wreak havoc on succulents, too.
Isolating the affected plant is a good first step to prevent the pests from spreading. Then, gently clean the leaves with a soft brush or a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
When it comes to persistent pest problems, you can even consider using a natural insecticide or neem oil as a safer alternative to harsh chemicals.
Top Tips For Succulent Health
Now, while you can revive your succulents, prevention is always better than curing, and understanding what your succulent really needs is key to maintaining its long-term health.
That’s why you should make sure that your plant gets plenty of indirect sunlight, is watered properly according to the season, and is housed in a pot with soil that promotes good drainage.
Last but not least, monitoring your plants regularly for signs of distress can help you catch issues early and keep your succulents safe and happy.
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