Expert: Greg Simpson - 1/8/2008

Question
Hi Mike,

Hope you can help.  I've brought my wonderful succulent and alpine garden in for the winter and it has been merrily growing in the corner of my front room.  However, it's suddenly taken a turn for the worse and much of the plants have wilted.  It looks similar to when i over nutured some previous succulents which resulted in them completely dying - i really hope this doesn't happen to my mini garden!  I have a suspicion that my cat may have peed in the pot - could this be the cause?  Also, i've found LOTS of snails in the pot - around 6-7(which i have now removed), not sure this could be a cause for the wilt but thought i would include it all the same.

Looking forward to receiving your advice!

Kind regards,

Claire

Answer
Claire,

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Typically when a succulent wilts suddenly it is from root damage. Unfortunately by the time the plant wilts, it is already too late. The root damage is either caused by too much water (rot) or not enough. A good rule of thumb for succulents is to water when the soil is dry, and not with a teaspoon. Water it well, then let it dry out again. Sorry for the bad news.

Sincerely,

Greg