1. Research Before Buying: Succulents come in various shapes, sizes, and care requirements. Spend some time researching (can’t emphasize this enough) different types to find one that fits your lifestyle and environment. It will save you time and money and might prevent some heartache.

2. Light Requirements: Most succulents need plenty of sunlight. Before buying, consider where you’ll place your plant and ensure it will receive adequate light. Too much or too little can cause problems.

3. Watering Needs: Succulents are known for their ability to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. However, they still need watering, though less frequently compared to other plants. Overwatering is a common mistake among beginners, so be cautious.

4. Well-Draining Soil: Succulents prefer soil that drains super well to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to rot. Look for soil specifically formulated for succulents or add perlite or sand to improve drainage. Click here to learn how to put together your own potting mix.

5. Pot Selection: Choose a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Terracotta pots are popular for succulents because they are porous and help wick away moisture from the soil. In summary, the material isn’t as important as drainage, so if your pot doesn’t come with holes, you will need to drill one (or a few depending on the hole size and how big the pot is)

6. Patience is Key: Most succulents grow slowly, so don’t expect rapid growth, which means you won’t have to worry about repotting for a while. Be patient and enjoy the process of caring for your plant.

7. Avoid Overcrowding: While succulents look great in arrangements, in the long run, overcrowding can lead to competition for resources and increased risk of disease. Give your succulents plenty of space to thrive.

8. Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common pests like mealybugs and spider mites, especially if you have other houseplants. Catching infestations early can prevent them from spreading to your other plants.

9. Seasonal Changes: Succulents may have different care needs depending on the season. For example, they may require less water during the winter months when they’re not actively growing.

10. Learn from Mistakes: Don’t be discouraged if you encounter setbacks or your succulent doesn’t thrive right away. Work with nature to meet each plant’s individual needs. Learning how to care for plants is a journey, and each experience will teach you something new.