Echeveria Care Guide
Below is a guide on how to care and pot Echeveria Succulents;
Why you should be using PRO MIX:
- Gritty Mix: Provides fast drainage, essential in hot and humid areas. Prevents roots from sitting in water.
- Kanuma: Absorbs some moisture but stays light and airy—helps balance out the dry-down.
- Akadama: Holds just enough moisture to support roots, while keeping the mix well-aerated.
This is a good mix for humidity control, especially when you’re growing rot-sensitive plants like Echeverias.
Potting Instructions
1. Pick the Right Pot
- Choose terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots for breathability.
- Make sure pots have generous drainage holes.
- Avoid plastic pots—they trap humidity.
2. Potting Step-by-Step
- Place mesh or a coffee filter over the drainage hole.
- Fill ¾ of the pot with dry PRO MIX.
- Set the Echeveria in and fill in around the roots.
- DO NOT WATER IMMEDIATELY – wait 2–3 days for root wounds to callous over before first watering.
Watering in Humid Climate
Echeverias HATE sitting in wet soil, especially in a humid places. Stick to the “soak and dry” method.
Watering Frequency
Season |
How Often |
Notes |
Summer (Wet) |
Every 10–14 days |
Check that the soil is bone dry first |
Dry Heatwaves |
Every 7–10 days |
More evaporation = faster drying |
Winter (Cooler) |
Every 3–4 weeks |
Plants go semi-dormant |
After Rain |
Skip |
Move pots under cover if outside |
How to tell it’s time to water:
- Stick your finger into the mix ~5 cm deep – it should feel dry and crumbly.
- If you're unsure, wait an extra day or two – Echeverias prefer drought over rot.
Light Requirements
- Echeverias love bright light – ideally 6 hours of morning sun.
- In locations with intense midday heat, provide shade after 11am.
- Indoors: Use a bright windowsill or supplement with grow lights.
Airflow Is Critical
- Space plants out to avoid trapping moisture.
- Keep in open, breezy areas – verandas and covered patios are ideal.
- Avoid glass domes or enclosed terrariums outside.
Fertilizing
- Use a diluted succulent fertiliser (¼ strength) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer.
- Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Issues in hot climates
Problem |
Cause |
Fix |
Mushy Leaves |
Over-watering or poor drainage |
Let mix dry, trim affected parts |
Stretchy Growth |
Not enough sunlight |
Move to brighter spot |
Black Spots |
Sunburn from harsh midday sun |
Provide filtered light in peak hours |
Mealybugs |
High humidity attracts pests |
Wipe with alcohol + improve airflow |
Quick Checklist
- Use breathable pots
- Let roots dry before first watering
- Water only when completely dry
- Avoid full midday sun
- Ensure good air circulation
- Use top dressing
- Fertilise lightly in growing season