potted_plant
Echeveria care requirements
water
Every 2–4 weeks. Allow to dry completely. 'Soak and dry' method.
soil
Gritty cactus or succulent mix.
light
Full sun to bright indirect light. 6+ hours ideal.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Echeveria
Roots and the base of the rosette turn brown to black and feel soft or mushy, often with a sour smell, and the rosette can detach from the root system entirely in advanced cases.
help
Common causes in Echeveria
The Pythium and Phytophthora fungi behind root rot need consistently moist soil to establish — Echeveria's long 2–4 week drying cycle between waterings exists specifically to deny these pathogens the damp conditions they need.
healing
How to treat root rot in Echeveria
Remove the plant, cut away all affected roots with a sterilised blade, and repot into fresh gritty succulent mix. Withhold watering for at least a week after repotting.
shield
Preventing root rot in Echeveria
Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix, ensure excellent drainage, and stick to the soak-and-dry method with full drying between waterings.