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What to Do When Succulent Leaves Turn Soft? Causes and Solutions

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There are many reasons why succulent leaves turn soft. If this happens just after repotting or during the dormant period, no special treatment is needed; if it is caused by overwatering or underwatering, the roots need to be trimmed and the plant repotted; if it is caused by sunburn or frost damage, the leaves that have turned to mush should be removed, and after sterilization the plant can be repotted.

1. Just after repotting

This situation is normal, because the roots of a newly repotted succulent have not fully grown out yet, so its ability to absorb water is relatively poor. Succulent growers only need to wait patiently for its roots to grow out. But if this situation persists for a long time, the roots need to be trimmed appropriately.

2. Mushy leaves caused by overly wet potting soil

Succulents do not like being too wet. If they remain in an overly wet environment for a long time, black rot and even mushiness can occur. At this point, the mushy leaves should be removed promptly, the black rot eliminated by beheading, and the mushy areas sterilized. After that, let the plant dry for a period of time and repot it.

3. Dry, withered leaves caused by normal metabolism

Because of the metabolism of the leaves at the base of the succulent plant, nutrients are gradually used up, so the leaves dry up. This is a normal phenomenon. At this time, the dried leaves should be removed promptly to prevent rot and pests.

4. Withered leaves during the dormant period

When a succulent is dormant, dried and softened leaves may also appear. This is a normal phenomenon. At this point, the frequency of watering needs to be reduced, or even stopped entirely; in summer, keep it ventilated, and in winter, just maintain the temperature.

5. Wrinkled leaves caused by lack of water

Not watering for a long time can also cause succulent leaves to turn soft and become wrinkled. At this time, water should be replenished promptly; if the situation is serious, it is recommended to take the plant out of its pot in time, inspect it and trim the roots.

6. Sunburn or frost damage

Temperatures that are too low or sunlight that is too strong can also easily damage its leaves. In this case, depending on the condition of the plant, remove the leaves that have turned to mush, then carry out sterilization treatment, and after drying in the air, simply repot the plant.

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