5 Tips for Taking Care of Succulents

A little grace, a little sunlight, and a bit of trial and error

If I’m being honest, I’ve never been the woman with a greenhouse full of thriving plants or a Pinterest-worthy shelf of succulents that always look perfect. But I have grown to love these quirky, charming little plants—and over time, I’ve learned a few things that help them survive (and sometimes even thrive) in my home.

So if you’ve ever felt like a plant parent failure or wondered why your succulent keeps shriveling or stretching, this post is for you. Here are five simple tips that can help—even if you’re still figuring it out like I am.

1. Give Them Bright, Indirect Light
Succulents love light, but not all light is created equal. A bright windowsill that gets morning sun is perfect. If they start reaching or leaning (called “stretching”), it’s a sign they’re not getting enough light. Rotate them every week or so to keep them growing evenly.

2. Don’t Overwater (Really, Don’t)
This might be the biggest mistake I’ve made. Succulents store water in their leaves, so they don’t need to be watered like your average houseplant. Wait until the soil is completely dry—then water deeply, letting the water drain out the bottom. Think soak and dry, not a little sip every day.

3. Use the Right Soil and Pot
Succulents need well-draining soil, not the regular potting mix most plants use. Look for cactus or succulent soil, and choose a pot with a drainage hole. If water sits too long, the roots will rot—and that’s a hard fix.

4. Keep an Eye on Their Leaves
Succulent leaves will often tell you what’s going on. Wrinkled or soft leaves? Could be thirsty. Mushy or transparent? Too much water. Falling off? Might need more light. Don’t panic—just adjust and see how they respond. They’re more forgiving than you think.

5. Start Small and Stay Curious
You don’t have to become an expert overnight. Pick one or two types (like jade or echeveria) and learn as you go. I’ve killed a few, rescued others, and even grown new plants from fallen leaves. It’s all part of the process.

The more I care for these little plants, the more they remind me that growth takes time, light, and the right conditions—but never perfection.
And it’s also a gentle reminder of something deeper:
“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
— Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

From the very beginning, God invited us to be caretakers of His creation—not just the land and animals, but the little things, too. Tending a few succulents might not seem like much, but it’s one small way we practice stewardship, patience, and grace right at home.
So if you’ve ever felt like you just can’t keep a plant alive—take heart. Even the greenest thumbs start somewhere, and there’s joy to be found in the learning.

With dirt on my hands and grace in my heart,
Aimee