Should I water succulents after repotting?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Do not water a succulent directly after repotting. Allow 5-7 days for the damaged roots to heal. Freshly damaged roots can absorb water very quickly, which can cause rot. That is also why you want to wait before you allow water to infect the plant. Rest is best for your plants before receiving water.
Light Management
- Place in bright indirect light for 7 days
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- South-facing windowsills work well
Dehydration Monitoring
- Check for leaf wrinkling daily
- Gently squeeze lower leaves
- Soil should remain completely dry
Emergency Watering
- If severe dehydration occurs
- Mist soil surface lightly
- Never soak the root zone
Place your repotted plants in the right way. Select a stable location with temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Do not place them on drafty windows or near heaters and heating vents. Maintain a humidity level between 40%-50%. These conditions minimize stress for the plants while roots recover. Your succulents establish roots with improved environmental stability.
Distinguishing between true dehydration and transplant shock is pretty simple. Transplant shock - Slight drooping with no wrinkles! Transplant shock resolves on its own. True dehydration (thirst) - Wrinkles and shriveling of leaves on lower leaves. Only provide water if severe wrinkles appear on multiple lower leaves. Mist the soil lightly, rather than saturating it.
Once the waiting period has passed, resume normal watering cautiously, providing a thorough soak until water drains from the holes, and then revert to the dry cycle. Check for any new roots by gently tugging on the plant. If it resists, it seems promising, as it may have successfully recovered. Your patience has clearly been rewarded with healthier plants!
Read the full article: Best Soil for Succulents: Ultimate Guide
