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How to Grow Succulents in a Container Without Drainage

Succulent plants need very little moisture, so it's important that when you water them, the liquid has a place to go. For this reason, the plants are typically grown in containers with drainage holes. With care and judicious watering, you can grow succulents in containers that lack these holes. Expect to water about half as often as you would otherwise water the plants, and always err on the side of less water rather than more.

Instructions

    • 1

      Place the container of succulents in an area where they receive full sun exposure, such as in a south-facing window.

    • 2

      Push a finger under the soil to check the soil's moisture level. If the soil feels wet or damp, do not water. Wait until the top inch of soil feels dry and dusty to the touch before watering.

    • 3

      Pour water slowly into the container, stopping when you've added liquid up to the halfway point between the soil line and the lip of the container. Watch as the water seeps into the soil. If the water leaches into the soil slowly, do not add more water. If the water flows rapidly into the soil, perform a second round of watering.

    • 4

      Remove excess water immediately if you think you have overwatered. Signs of overwatering include water standing in the pot and soil that feels boggy and moist hours or even days after watering. This is critical when growing succulents in a pot without drainage holes. To remove the water, bring the container to a sink or move it outside. Tilt the container to pour water out, allowing the excess water to flow out before righting the pot. To be safe, you can also drain out excess water this way several minutes after watering your succulents.

    • 5

      Allow the plant air circulation to promote health, especially if you think you overwatered. Air and sunlight can help the soil leach out moisture before the roots rot.