"The Succulent Survival Guide: Why Your Plant Might Be Struggling"

If your succulent appears sick, there could be a variety of reasons, ranging from environmental factors to pest issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

1. Overwatering: One of the most common mistakes with succulents is overwatering. Overwatered succulents will have soft, mushy leaves that may look swollen. The stem may also become black or rot.

   Solution: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Ensure that your pot has drainage holes. If the plant has started to rot, you might need to cut away the rotten parts and repot the healthy section.

2. Underwatering: Succulents that are underwatered may have shriveled or wrinkled leaves.

   Solution: Water your succulent thoroughly, but then let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

3. Too much sun/light: Succulents that get too much sun can develop sunburn, which shows as brown or white spots on the leaves.

   Solution: Move your succulent to a location with less direct sunlight or provide it with some shade.

4. Not enough light: If your succulent is not receiving enough light, it may become "leggy" or etiolated, meaning it will stretch out and look thin.

   Solution: Move it to a brighter location. If you’re growing succulents indoors, placing them near a south or west-facing window might help.

5. Pests: Common pests for succulents include mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. If you see small bugs or a fine webbing on your plants, pests might be the problem.

   Solution: Remove the pests using isopropyl alcohol on a Q-tip or use insecticidal soap. Ensure good air circulation around your plants.

6. Soil: Succulents prefer well-draining soil. If your soil retains too much moisture, it can cause root rot.

   Solution: Consider repotting your succulent in a cactus or succulent potting mix, or make your own by mixing potting soil with sand or perlite.

7. Temperature: Succulents don’t like extreme temperatures. If it's too cold, especially at night, they can become damaged. Frost can be particularly harmful.

   Solution: Keep succulents in an environment where the temperature is stable and preferably above freezing. If outdoors, consider bringing them in during colder nights.

8. Fertilizer: Over-fertilizing can harm succulents.

   Solution: Only fertilize during the growing season (usually spring and summer) and use a diluted, balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.