Too much water can leave a succulent thirsty. When soil stays wet, air is displaced from its pores, depriving roots of the oxygen needed for cellular respiration. Damaged roots struggle to absorb water, so leaves may wrinkle even as moisture surrounds them. The apparent remedy can deepen the injury.
The pot matters more than the watering calendar. A container with a drainage hole lets excess water escape, while a gritty, well draining succulent mix helps air return to the root zone. Water thoroughly, then wait until the soil has dried before watering again; a finger or wooden skewer can help check beneath the surface. Empty the saucer. Constantly damp soil favors root rot, which can turn roots brown or black and leave them soft. Wrinkling alone is not a diagnosis: inspect the soil and roots before reaching for the watering can.
Light is the other half of restraint. Most succulents prefer abundant light, though needs vary by species, and a sudden move into intense sun can scorch leaves. Introduce stronger light gradually. If roots have rotted, remove the plant from its pot, trim dead, mushy roots with clean scissors, and repot in fresh, dry mix; severely damaged plants may not recover. Let cut roots dry before watering, and allow the soil to dry between drinks thereafter. On a bright sill, the quiet space between waterings is part of the care.
