Why is my succulent drooping?

Question

I bought a few succulents two weeks ago, replanted them in soil, and put them on my coffee table. This week, two of the succulents began drooping -- their leaves opened more and kind of flattened against the soil. I'm not sure if these means they're getting too much or too little water, too much or too little sun, etc. How much and how often should I be watering these guys?
I was told succulents are unkillable so I'm feeling pretty gardening-challenged at the moment! PLEASE help! Thanks :)

I was told succulents are unkillable so I'm feeling pretty gardening-challenged at the moment! PLEASE help! Thanks :)

Wendy Adams · Answer

What kind of soil did you repot them in? If it was regular potting soil it may hold too much moisture and that could cause the plants to drop leaves. Succulents like to stay on the dry side and can even take their needed moisture from the air. I would recommend spritzing them with water or keeping them in a humid environment where they can just soak up moisture from the atmosphere. A soil with a sandy texture and lots of drainage is best for these types of plants. I have an aloe I've only watered 3 times in 5 months, but since it's in my bathroom, it takes in moisture from the shower. Just try not to over water it while it's inside the house.

Jan Goodin · Answer

I agree with Wendy. Get some soil for cactus and succulents. Good luck.

Douglas Hunt · Answer

Wendy and Jan are definitely right about the soil and watering. And your light level could be an issue, too. Most succulents want bright light.

DORLIS · Answer

i use potting soil mixed almost even portions with 'turkey grit'. if you live near a farm store, they should have some. it isn't rounded like pea gravel and will not compact.

Patti @Hearth and Vine · Answer

Drainage as mentioned is a key factor however, in my experience as mentioned by @Doug some of the succulents sold now just won't work well in the home as they are more of a desert plant. Some do okay, but all need bright light. Sempervivums aka hens and chicks seem to do better indoors, also Jade plants.

Lynne Cooper · Answer

Mix some river sand into your soil, and perlite if you can get it. It opens the soil up and allows free drainage. Succulents hate wet roots. Make sure you have good drainage in your pot. Lay some rocks over the drainage hole so it doesn't get blocked. Water once a week in summer and once a fortnight in winter. As long as they get good light they should be OK. Perhaps a warm spot in winter wouldn't hurt. I've grown succulents withouht direct sun and they are fine. They just grow slower and darker. More sun will see a lighter colour and more red in the leaves. Drooping is normally caused from too much water.

Janie · Answer

Too light light - but be careful to introduce more light slowly - by increasing 1 extra hour of morning sunlight every few days. Avoid the noon sunlight though.

Why is my succulent drooping?

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Why is my succulent drooping?

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