“Put gravel in the bottom of the pot for drainage”
This is one of the most repeated tips, and it backfires. Water doesn’t flow easily from fine soil into a coarse layer like gravel. It stays in the soil just above the gravel instead, so the roots sit in a wetter layer than they would in a pot full of soil.
Instead: fill the whole pot with gritty, fast-draining mix, and use a pot with a drainage hole. The soil and pots guide explains what to use.
“Mist your succulents”
A light spray wets the leaves and the top of the soil, but never reaches the roots. Water sitting on the leaves, especially in a rosette, can lead to rot or marks.
Instead: water the soil deeply until it runs out of the drainage hole, then wait until it’s completely dry before the next drink. That’s the soak-and-dry method in the watering guide. Light misting is only useful for leaves and cuttings that are just starting to root.
“A little water often is safest”
Small sips keep the top of the soil damp while the roots lower down stay dry. The plant ends up with shallow roots, and the soil near its base never fully dries.
Instead: water less often, but deeply.
“Succulents can live anywhere, even in a dim corner”
Most succulents come from bright, open places. In low light they stretch toward the window, lose their color, and slowly weaken. That stretching (called etiolation) doesn’t reverse.
Instead: give them your brightest window, or a grow light. A few, like the zebra plant, cope with less light. The library’s light filter shows which.
“All succulents are desert plants”
Many are, but not all. Forest cacti like the Christmas cactus and mistletoe cactus grow on trees in humid forests. They want softer light and more water than desert cacti. The cacti guide covers the difference.
“Succulents never need feeding”
They need much less than leafy houseplants, but not nothing. A plant that has lived in the same soil for years slowly uses up its nutrients.
Instead: feed lightly a few times in spring and summer with a diluted fertilizer, such as one made for cacti and succulents. Don’t feed in winter, when most succulents rest. The seasons guide has the details, and fresh soil when you repot helps too.
“Painted cacti and glued-on flowers are special varieties”
They’re ordinary plants that have been painted or decorated. The paint stops the skin from making food properly, and glued flowers aren’t real. See the buying guide for what to look for instead.
“Succulents are safe around pets”
Some are, but several popular ones are toxic to cats and dogs, including aloe vera, the jade plant and kalanchoes like flaming Katy.
Instead: check each plant’s page, or the pet safety table on the plant doctor. If a pet eats a plant, call your vet or an animal poison control line.