Succulent Turned White: Reasons and SolutionsConclusion

Oleh Freda Boyer May 25, 2023 Post a Comment

Succulents are one of the most popular plants in the world, known for their easy-care nature and beautiful appearance. However, one common problem that many succulent owners face is when their plant turns white. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and provide tips on how to revive your succulent.

What causes a succulent to turn white?

There are various reasons why succulents turn white, including:

1. Sunburn

Succulents need a lot of sunlight, but too much can be harmful. When a succulent is exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods, it can cause sunburn. This is especially true for succulents that are used to low light conditions. The leaves or stem may turn white as a result of sunburn.

To prevent sunburn, it's important to give your succulent adequate shade during the hottest parts of the day. You can also acclimate your succulent gradually to more sunlight by giving it a few hours of sunlight per day and increasing the duration over time.

2. Overwatering

Overwatering is another common reason why succulents turn white. Succulents are adapted to survive in arid conditions and store water in their leaves and stems. When they are overwatered, the excess water can cause the leaves to swell, turn soft and mushy, and eventually turn white.

To avoid overwatering, make sure you use well-draining soil and allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Also, avoid leaving your succulent in standing water and make sure there is proper drainage in the pot.

3. Underwatering

While succulents don't need as much water as other plants, they still require some moisture to survive. Underwatering can cause the leaves to curl inward and turn white. In severe cases, the leaves may fall off.

To prevent underwatering, make sure you water your succulent regularly, especially during hot weather. Check the soil moisture level by inserting a finger into the soil to ensure it's not completely dry.

4. Pests

Succulents are susceptible to pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can cause the leaves to turn white or yellow and eventually dry up.

To prevent pest infestations, inspect your succulent regularly for any signs of infestation and take appropriate measures to treat them. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests.

5. Fungal infections

Fungal infections can also cause succulent leaves to turn white. The most common fungal infection that affects succulents is powdery mildew. This appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves.

To treat fungal infections, remove the infected leaves and isolate the affected plant from other plants. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the infection.

6. Genetics

In some cases, succulents may naturally have white leaves or stems due to their genetics. This is more common in certain species like Echeveria and Graptopetalum.

How to revive a succulent that has turned white?

Reviving a succulent that has turned white depends on the reason behind the discoloration. Here are some tips to help you revive your succulent:

1. Sunburned succulent

If your succulent has turned white due to sunburn, move it to a shaded area immediately. Gradually acclimate it to more sunlight over time. You can also prune the damaged leaves or stem and allow the plant to heal.

2. Overwatered succulent

If your succulent has turned white due to overwatering, stop watering it immediately. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. You can also remove the damaged leaves or stem and allow the plant to heal.

3. Underwatered succulent

If your succulent has turned white due to underwatering, water it immediately. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. You can also prune the damaged leaves and allow the plant to heal.

4. Pest-infested succulent

If your succulent has turned white due to pest infestation, treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove any infected leaves and isolate the affected plant from other plants.

5. Fungal-infected succulent

If your succulent has turned white due to a fungal infection, remove the infected leaves and treat the plant with fungicides. Isolate the affected plant from other plants to prevent the spread of the infection.

6. Genetically white succulent

If your succulent naturally has white leaves or stems due to genetics, there's not much you can do to change it. However, you can still ensure that it receives proper care and sunlight to maintain its health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I save my succulent if it turns completely white?

A1. It depends on the reason behind the discoloration. If it's due to sunburn, overwatering, or underwatering, there's a chance you can save your succulent by taking appropriate measures. However, if it's due to a fungal infection or genetic trait, it may be difficult to revive it.

Q2. How often should I water my succulent?

A2. Succulents don't need as much water as other plants. Water your succulent when the soil is completely dry, which can be every 1-2 weeks depending on the temperature and humidity.

Q3. What kind of soil is best for succulents?

A3. Succulents need well-draining soil that allows excess water to drain away quickly. You can use a mix of sand, perlite, and potting soil to create a well-draining soil.

Q4. Can I grow succulents indoors?

A4. Yes, you can grow succulents indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight and proper care. Place them near a south-facing window or provide artificial light.

Q5. How do I prevent pest infestations on my succulent?

A5. Inspect your succulent regularly for any signs of infestation and take appropriate measures to treat them. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests.

Q6. Can I propagate a white succulent?

A6. Yes, you can propagate a white succulent by taking stem cuttings or leaf cuttings and planting them in well-draining soil.

Q7. Can I put my succulent outside in the winter?

A7. It depends on the species of succulent and the climate. Some succulents are hardy enough to survive outside in the winter, while others may need to be brought inside.

Q8. Why do some succulents turn red instead of white?

A8. Red leaves on succulents are often a result of stress, such as intense sunlight or extreme temperatures. The red color is caused by pigments that protect the plant from damage.

Q9. Do succulents need fertilizer?

A9. Succulents don't need fertilizer, but you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.

Q10. How do I know if my succulent is getting enough sunlight?

A10. Succulents need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If the leaves to stretch out or become pale, it may be a sign that it's not getting enough sunlight.

In conclusion, there are various reasons why succulents turn white, including sunburn, overwatering, underwatering, pests, fungal infections, and genetics. To revive a succulent that has turned white, you need to identify the reason behind the discoloration and take appropriate measures. By providing proper care and attention, you can keep your succulents healthy and beautiful.