Don't worry when your succulent leaves become wilted and soft! Whether it's due to underwatering, overwatering, or other factors, there are solutions to help your succulents bounce back.

With their adorable appearance and low-maintenance nature, succulents are beloved by many plant enthusiasts. However, the issue of wilted leaves can be a source of concern. Let's dive into the causes and solutions.

1. Underwatering and Drought

Although succulents are drought-tolerant, they still need water. When the soil dries out completely, succulents will use up their stored water, causing the lower, older leaves to soften and wrinkle first, gradually affecting the upper leaves.

The solution is to water thoroughly and place the plant in a ventilated area. The leaves should regain their plumpness in 1-2 days. However, if the plant has been underwatered for a long time, avoid giving it a large amount of water all at once. Instead, gradually replenish the water.

2. Overwatering and Root Rot

Succulents prefer dry conditions. Overwatering can cause the roots to suffocate and rot, preventing the absorption of nutrients and water. The leaves will become soft and translucent and may fall off with just a gentle touch. In severe cases, the stem will also turn black and rot.

If you notice this, stop watering immediately, remove the plant from its pot, trim the rotten roots, let the wounds dry, and repot it in well - ventilated, granular soil. If the root rot is extensive, you may need to take cuttings from the healthy top part of the plant.

3. Normal Phenomenon During the Acclimatization Period

When succulents are newly potted or repotted, the lower leaves may soften while the upper, new leaves remain normal. This is because the root system hasn't fully recovered and can't absorb water properly, which is a normal part of the adjustment phase.

During this period, keep the soil slightly moist and avoid direct sunlight. After 1-2 weeks, when the roots have established, the leaves will recover. Do not frequently uproot the plant to check on it.

4. Environmental Factors

Temperature extremes can affect succulents. In summer, high temperatures may cause succulents to enter a state of heat dormancy, leading to leaf softening and waterlogging. In winter, low temperatures can cause frost damage, making the leaves translucent and soft.

To address this, improve ventilation and provide shade in summer, and move the plants to a warmer indoor location in winter, trimming any frost-damaged leaves. Insufficient light can also cause succulents to have thin, soft leaves and elongate. Gradually increase light exposure by first placing the plant in indirect light and then moving it to a spot with more direct sunlight once it has acclimated.

5. Pest and Disease Infestation

Pests like mealybugs and scale insects can bite the sap from succulents, causing the leaves to wilt.

If you spot these pests, use insecticides to treat the roots or spray the plant. Black rot, a fungal disease, spreads quickly, causing the stem to turn black and the leaves to wilt rapidly. In such cases, promptly cut off the affected top part of the plant, treat it with a fungicide, and then take cuttings. At the same time, improve the growing environment to prevent recurrence.

The wilting of succulent leaves is often the result of a combination of factors. In daily care, it's important to observe carefully, accurately identify the cause, and take appropriate measures. With attentive care, your succulents will soon regain their vitality and continue to beautify your living space.