How to Water Indoor Succulents

Succulents are plants with thick, fleshy stems or leaves that allow them to store water efficiently in arid conditions. Cacti, the jade plant, Aloe barbadensis, the snake plant, hens and chicks plant and flowering Kalanchoes are all examples of succulents. Knowing when and how to water these succulents is the key to growing them indoors. Succulents require a bright, sunny light source and low relative humidity -- approximately 10 to 30 percent, according to the University of Minnesota Extension website.

Well-drained sandy soil
Clay pot

Instructions

- 1
  Plant your succulent in well-drained, sandy soil inside a pot with drainage holes. This prevents the succulent from rot and decay due to excess moisture. Placing it in a southern-facing window is ideal for many varieties.
- 2
  Add water to your succulent when the leaves begin to droop or have indentations. Allow the water to come out through the drainage holes, and discard the excess. Some varieties may turn gray when they need moisture.
- 3
  Water the succulent thoroughly when you add moisture during the winter months -- enough so that the water comes out the drainage holes. It only needs occasional watering during this time to prevent it from withering or shrinking. Discard any excess water after 3 or 4 minutes. Some varieties, like the barrel cactus, don't require any water during the winter months. Follow the care directions that come with your succulent for the best results.

How to Preserve a Cactus

How to Grow Cacti & Succulents From the Seeds

Growing Cactus