Are you a succulent parent looking to grow your cuties in a beautiful pot but worried about the lack of drainage holes? Others might say "Nooooo!" But at Happy Succulent Care, we say "Yes, you can!" — though it may seem challenging.
It's definitely possible with the right knowledge and techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the risks, tips, and best practices for keeping your succulents thriving in containers without proper drainage.
Key Takeaways:
- Succulents can survive in pots without drainage holes, but it increases the risk of root rot and other issues.
- When watering succulents in pots without drainage, use a well-draining soil and water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Alternative watering methods such as bottom watering and self-watering pots can help prevent overwatering in succulents without drainage holes.
The Risks of Growing Succulents in Pots Without Drainage
Let's face it, succulents and drainage holes usually go hand in hand.
Growing succulents in containers without drainage holes can present several risks, primarily due to the potential for water to accumulate at the bottom of the pot, leading to soggy soil and root rot.
Succulents have unique water needs, just "soak and dry" so they're particularly sensitive to overwatering, which can result in several watering problems and ultimately harm the plant's health.
When you grow succulents in pots without drainage, there's a higher risk of water accumulating at the bottom, creating a soggy environment that can harm your plant's health.
Can Succulents Survive in Pots Without Drainage?
The short answer is yes, succulents can thrive in pots without drainage holes. However, it requires extra care and attention to ensure they receive the right amount of water.
The key is to use a well-draining soil mix and water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
So watch for signs of stress such as yellowing leaves or mushy stems, indicating overwatering. Conversely, wrinkled or shriveled leaves are signs of underwatering. Adjust your watering routine accordingly to keep your succulents happy and thriving.
A Word of Caution About Terrariums
Terrariums typically don't have drainage holes, so we don't recommend them for beginner succulent growers. They can easily become a death trap for succulents if not managed properly. If you're absolutely in love with terrariums and want to give them a try, make sure to follow the guidelines we've outlined in this article closely.
Choosing the Right Soil for Succulents Without Drainage
One of the most important factors in successfully growing succulents in pots without drainage is using a well-draining soil mix. Look for a mix that includes materials like pumice, perlite, or coarse sand. These components create air pockets in the soil, allowing water to flow through more easily and preventing it from pooling at the bottom of the pot.
At Happy Succulent Care, we love using Bonsai Jack's gritty mix or adding pumice to our glass containers. The gritty mix is specifically designed for optimal drainage, while pumice helps keep the soil looking clean and tidy in glass planters. Aim for a consistent particle size of around 1/4″ (6mm) throughout the pot for the best results.
Watering Your Succulents in Pots Without Drainage
Watering succulents in pots without drainage requires a bit of finesse. The goal is to give your plants enough water to thoroughly soak the soil, but not so much that it pools at the bottom. Here are a few tips to help you get it right:
- Measure Your Water: Use a measuring cup or a squeeze bottle with measurements to keep track of how much water you're giving your succulents. Pour water equal to about half the volume of your planter. For example, if your pot holds 1 cup of soil, use 1/2 cup of water.
- Observe and Adjust: Keep an eye on your succulents after watering. If you notice signs of overwatering, like yellowing leaves or mushy stems, cut back on the amount of water. If the leaves start to shrivel or the plant looks thirsty, slightly increase the water quantity.
- Water Only When Dry: Resist the urge to water on a set schedule. Instead, check the soil moisture with your finger and only water when it feels completely dry. This is especially important for pots without drainage, as the water doesn't evaporate as quickly.
- Use a Moisture Meter: This handy tool takes the guesswork out of watering. Simply stick the meter in the soil and wait for it to display the moisture level. You're aiming for a reading of zero, or very close to it. Check out our guide on precisely when to water succulents for more tips.
Alternative Watering Methods for Succulents in Non-Draining Pots
If you're still feeling a bit nervous about watering your succulents in pots without drainage, there are a couple of alternative methods you can try:
- Bottom Watering: Place your pot in a tray filled with water, allowing the soil to absorb moisture from the bottom up. Remove the pot from the tray after about 30 minutes and let any excess water drain out.
- Self-Watering Pots: These specialized pots have a built-in reservoir that slowly releases water into the soil as needed. They're a great option if you tend to forget to water your succulents or worry about overwatering.
- Pot-in-Pot Method: Plant your succulents in a smaller plastic pot with drainage holes, then place that pot inside a larger decorative planter without holes. This allows you to remove the inner pot for watering and ensures proper drainage.
- Drill Drainage Holes: If you're feeling handy, you can always drill your own drainage holes in your favorite planter. Start with a small pilot hole and gradually increase the size until you have a hole that's about 1/2″ (1.2 cm) in diameter. Place a piece of screen or mesh over the hole to keep the soil from falling out.
Signs of Watering Problems in Succulents Without Drainage
Even with the best intentions, sometimes things can go wrong. Keep an eye out for these signs that your succulent is getting too much or too little water:
- Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, mushy or translucent stems, and soggy soil are all indicators that your succulent is getting too much water. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
- Underwatering: Wrinkled, shriveled leaves that feel soft to the touch are a sign that your succulent is thirsty. Give it a good drink and monitor the soil moisture more closely in the future.
Other Caring Considerations for Succulents in Non-Draining Pots
In addition to proper watering, there are a few other factors to keep in mind when caring for succulents in pots without drainage:
- Fertilize Lightly: Succulents don't need a lot of fertilizer. Cacti only require feeding once or twice a year during the growing season, while other succulents can be fertilized three to four times in the summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply the solution in place of regular watering, making sure to soak the top 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) of soil.
- Provide Adequate Light: Succulents need plenty of bright, direct light to thrive. Outdoors, aim for a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Indoors, place your planter near a south-facing window or use a grow light if natural light is limited. Keep the light about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) above the plant and leave it on for 14 to 16 hours per day.
The Bottom Line: Mastering the Art of Watering Succulents Without Drainage
Watering succulents in pots without drainage may feel daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, you'll become a pro in no time. Remember, it's better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering. These resilient plants can bounce back from a dry spell much easier than they can recover from being waterlogged.
With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of trial and error, you'll be able to confidently grow healthy, happy succulents in any planter your heart desires — drainage hole or not! At Happy Succulent Care, we're here to support you on your journey to becoming a succulent pro, even in challenging growing conditions.