Succulents and cacti are beloved for their hardiness and low-maintenance nature, making them perfect companions for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts. However, even these tough plants can face challenges from time to time. Whether you’re dealing with yellowing leaves, pests, or other issues, troubleshooting common problems doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little know-how, you can solve these problems quickly and keep your plants happy.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some common issues with succulents and cacti and offer simple solutions to help get your plants back on track.

1. Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering or Underwatering?

Problem: Yellowing leaves are one of the most common issues with succulents and cacti. The cause can often be traced back to improper watering.

Solution:

  • Overwatering is usually the primary culprit. When succulents and cacti are overwatered, their roots sit in excess moisture, causing the roots to rot and leading to yellowing leaves. To fix this, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again, and ensure the pot has good drainage.

  • Underwatering can also cause yellowing, especially if the plant’s leaves are shriveled or dry. If your plant is thirsty, give it a good soak, allowing water to run through the drainage holes. After that, allow the soil to dry out before watering again.

Tip: Always check the soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter before watering. Succulents and cacti prefer to dry out fully between waterings.

2. Stretching or Leggy Growth (Etiolation): Insufficient Light

Problem: If your succulents or cacti start growing tall and leggy, this could be a sign of etiolation—when a plant becomes stretched out due to insufficient light. In an attempt to reach for more sunlight, the plant will grow long, thin stems with sparse leaves.

Solution:

Move your plant to a brighter location, preferably near a south or west-facing window where it can get direct sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, you can also supplement with grow lights. For optimal growth, succulents and cacti need around 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Tip: Ensure your plant isn’t too close to a window with direct sunlight, as it can cause sunburn, especially during hot afternoons. Try rotating your plant regularly to ensure even growth.

3. Drooping Leaves: Overwatering, Poor Drainage, or Root Rot

Problem: If the leaves of your succulent or cactus are wilting or drooping, it could indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or root rot.

Solution:

  • Overwatering is the most likely cause. If the soil stays too wet for too long, it creates the perfect environment for root rot. To fix this, check the roots for any mushy, discolored spots. Trim away any affected roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil with good drainage. Ensure the pot has a drainage hole.

  • Root rot is also a concern. If your plant is showing signs of root rot, you may need to carefully remove it from the pot, cut away rotting parts, and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.

Tip: Always let the soil dry out completely between waterings. If you’re unsure, it’s better to underwater than overwater.

4. Brown or Black Spots: Sunburn or Fungal Infection

Problem: If your plant’s leaves develop brown or black spots, it could be due to sunburn, fungal infections, or poor watering practices.

Solution:

  • Sunburn happens when a succulent or cactus is exposed to intense, direct sunlight, especially after being in a shaded spot for too long. To solve this, move your plant to a location with indirect light or gradually introduce it to brighter conditions to prevent shock.

  • Fungal infections are often the result of excess moisture, poor air circulation, or high humidity. To treat fungal infections, remove any affected leaves, increase airflow around your plant, and avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. If the infection persists, consider using a mild fungicide.

Tip: Always water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves. Good air circulation and proper spacing between plants can also help prevent fungal growth.

5. Pests: Mealybugs, Spider Mites, and Scale

Problem: Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can invade your succulents and cacti, sucking out sap and weakening the plant. You might notice sticky residue, webbing, or small, white or brown spots on your plants.

Solution:

  • Mealybugs: These pests appear as small, white, cotton-like clumps. To remove them, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently dab it onto the bugs. This will kill them on contact.

  • Spider Mites: These tiny pests are often found on the undersides of leaves and may leave webbing behind. Spray your plants with a mixture of water and mild dish soap, or use an insecticidal soap specifically designed for houseplants.

  • Scale Insects: These pests appear as small, raised bumps on the plant. They can be wiped away with rubbing alcohol and a soft cloth or cotton ball.

Tip: Regularly inspect your plants for pests, especially in warmer months, as these critters tend to be more active during the growing season.

6. Leaves Turning Red or Purple: Stress or Sunlight Exposure

Problem: Some succulents and cacti may develop a red or purple hue on their leaves when they are stressed. While this can be a natural response to changes in temperature, water, or light, it may also indicate excessive sun exposure or sudden environmental shifts.

Solution:

If you notice this color change, it’s likely your plant is adapting to its environment, especially in the cooler months or after a change in light conditions. If the plant is in direct sunlight, try moving it to a location with more filtered light. On the other hand, some succulents, such as "Echeveria" and "Sedum," may turn red or purple naturally when stressed.

Tip: If your plant is healthy otherwise, don't panic! This coloration can sometimes be a sign of stress-induced beauty rather than a problem.

7. Root Rot: How to Fix and Prevent It

Problem: Root rot is often caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or infected soil. It usually results in mushy, discolored leaves or stems and a foul smell coming from the soil.

Solution:

If you suspect root rot, carefully remove the plant from its pot and examine the roots. Trim away any mushy, blackened, or rotten roots with sterile scissors. After cutting, let the plant sit in a dry area for a day or two to allow the remaining healthy roots to callus over. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil, and avoid watering for a few days.

Tip: To prevent root rot in the future, ensure your pot has drainage holes, and always let the soil dry out completely between waterings. If your climate is humid, consider using a mix that drains quickly.

8. Leaves Shriveling or Curling: Lack of Water or Humidity

Problem: Shriveling or curling leaves often indicate that your plant is either underwatered or suffering from low humidity. This is particularly common in plants like "Aloe" or "Haworthia."

Solution:

  • Underwatering: If your plant’s leaves look shriveled and dry, it’s likely underwatered. Give your plant a good soak, allowing water to run through the drainage holes. Afterward, let the soil dry out before watering again.

  • Low Humidity: Succulents and cacti typically don’t need high humidity, but some tropical species may benefit from slightly higher humidity levels. If your plant is showing signs of shriveling in a dry environment, consider moving it to a more humid area or adding a humidity tray nearby.

Tip: If you live in a dry climate, especially during winter when indoor air can get quite dry, mist your plants occasionally or use a humidifier to help maintain the right moisture balance.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting common issues with succulents and cacti doesn't have to be overwhelming. By understanding the typical challenges these plants face, such as overwatering, light deficiencies, pests, and root rot, you can address problems early and implement simple solutions to keep your plants healthy. Regular observation, attention to their environmental needs, and timely interventions will ensure that your succulents and cacti continue to thrive in your home.

Keep troubleshooting, and your plants will thank you with vibrant growth and beauty.