Care Guides
How to Water Succulents in Hot Weather
Jul
Succulents store water in their leaves and stems, which makes them forgiving — but summer heat changes the rules. Some succulents grow actively in summer and need more water; others slow down and need less. Here is how to get it right.
The soak-and-dry method
The best approach for nearly all succulents is simple: water deeply, then wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. Pour water until it runs out of the drainage hole, then let the pot drain fully. Never let a succulent sit in a saucer of water.
How often in summer?
There is no universal schedule, but as a starting point:
- Outdoors in pots, full sun: roughly every 5–10 days during heat waves.
- Indoors near a bright window: every 10–14 days.
- In the ground: established plants often need water only during long dry spells.
Check by pushing a finger or wooden skewer two inches into the soil. If any moisture clings to it, wait.
Summer growers vs. summer resters
Many popular succulents such as echeveria, sedum, aloe and most cacti grow happily in summer and appreciate regular deep watering. Others — including aeonium, lithops and some haworthia — slow down in high heat and should be watered sparingly.
What affects watering
- Pot material: terracotta dries out much faster than plastic or glazed ceramic.
- Pot size: small pots dry in a day or two in hot sun.
- Soil: a gritty, fast-draining mix is essential. Regular potting soil holds water too long.
Signs of trouble
Underwatered: leaves wrinkle, deflate or become thin; lower leaves dry up and turn crispy. Usually fixed by a deep watering.
Overwatered: leaves turn translucent, yellow or mushy; stems blacken at the base. This is more serious — stop watering and check the roots for rot.
Water at the right time
Water in the early morning or evening. Avoid splashing water onto leaves in strong midday sun, and avoid leaving water sitting in the rosettes of plants like echeveria.
Get the watering right and summer becomes the season of fastest growth and best color. Browse our succulent collection.
