Succulent Turning Red: Causes, Care and Solutions

Oleh Gayle Harber June 10, 2023 Post a Comment

If you are a succulent lover, then it is quite possible that you have noticed your beloved plant turning red. While some succulents naturally exhibit this color, others do not, and a sudden change in hue can be alarming. In this post, we will discuss the reasons behind succulent turning red, along with some tips to take care of your plant.

Succulent turning red can be caused by various factors such as environmental conditions, pest infestation, or simply due to its genetics. Therefore, it is essential to identify the underlying cause before taking any action. Here, we will explain each factor one by one, so read on to find out more.

Environmental Conditions

The first reason for succulent turning red is the environment. More specifically, the plant's exposure to sunlight or lack thereof. Succulents require adequate sunlight to grow healthily and maintain their natural color. However, too much direct sunlight can lead to sunburn and subsequently cause the plant to turn red. On the other hand, insufficient sunlight can also cause the plant to lose its green color and turn red.

Another environmental factor that can contribute to the reddening of succulents is temperature. As these plants are native to arid environments, they thrive in warm climates. However, if exposed to very high temperatures, succulents may to get stressed and turn red. Similarly, if exposed to very low temperatures, they may also suffer from stress and discoloration.

Genetics

The second reason why succulent turning red is genetics. Some succulent species are genetically predisposed to exhibit red, pink, or purple colors. For instance, the Echeveria 'Black Prince' and Sedum rubrotinctum 'Aurora' are known to display deep red hues, while Graptoveria 'Debbie' and Crassula ovata 'Hummel's Sunset' have pink and orange tones.

Pest Infestation

The third reason why succulent turning red is pest infestation. These plants are generally hardy and can withstand pests, but certain insects like scale, spider mites, or mealybugs can cause severe damage to your plant. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing discoloration and weakening the plant's health. A weakened plant is more susceptible to other diseases, which can further exacerbate the problem.

Soil Conditions

The fourth reason for succulent turning red is soil conditions. Succulents require well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. If the soil is too compact and does not drain well, it can cause root rot, which can lead to reddening of the plant. Additionally, if the soil lacks essential nutrients, the plant may not get enough energy to maintain its natural color.

Watering Habits

The fifth reason why succulent turning red is watering habits. Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why succulents die, as these plants prefer dry soil. If the soil is too wet, it can cause root rot, which can lead to the plant turning red. On the other hand, underwatering can also cause stress to the plant, leading to discoloration. Therefore, it is essential to strike a balance between the two, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Solutions

Now that we know the reasons behind succulent turning red, let us discuss some solutions to prevent it from happening.

Adjusting Lighting Conditions: If your succulent is turning red due to sunlight exposure, you can move it to a shadier spot or use a sheer curtain to filter the light. Alternatively, if it is not getting enough sunlight, you can move it to a sunnier spot or use a grow light.
Treating Pest Infestation: If your succulent is turning red due to pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. Additionally, you can isolate the infected plant to prevent the spread of the infestation.
Improving Soil Conditions: If your succulent is turning red because of soil conditions, you can mix in sand or perlite to improve drainage and aerate the soil. Additionally, you can add organic matter like compost or worm castings to enrich the soil with nutrients.
Adjusting Watering Habits: If your succulent is turning red due to watering habits, you can adjust your watering schedule and frequency. It is advisable to water these plants once a week and let the soil dry out before watering again.

In conclusion, succulent turning red can be caused by various factors such as environmental conditions, genetics, pest infestation, soil conditions, and watering habits. Therefore, it is essential to identify the underlying cause before taking any action. Once identified, you can take measures to prevent further damage and restore your plant's natural color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why Is My Succulent Turning Red?

A1. Succulent turning red can be caused by various factors such as environmental conditions, genetics, pest infestation, soil conditions, and watering habits.

Q2. How Do I Prevent My Succulent From Turning Red?

A2. To prevent your succulent from turning red, you should ensure that it gets adequate sunlight, maintain the right temperature, avoid overwatering, and treat any pest infestations promptly.

Q3. Can Overwatering Turn Succulents Red?

A3. Yes, overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause discoloration and eventually turn your succulent red.

Q4. How Do I Treat Pest Infestations In My Succulent?

A4. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat pest infestations in your succulent. Additionally, you should isolate the infected plant to prevent the spread of the infestation.

Q5. Can Genetics Cause Succulents To Turn Red?

A5. Yes, some succulent species are genetically predisposed to display red, pink, or purple colors.

Q6. How Often Should I Water My Succulent?

A6. It is advisable to water succulents once a week and let the soil dry out before watering again.

Q7. What Soil Type Is Best For Succulents?

A7. Succulents require well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. You can mix sand or perlite to improve drainage and add organic matter like compost or worm castings to enrich the soil with nutrients.

Q8. Can Temperature Affect The Color Of My Succulent?

A8. Yes, exposure to very high or low temperatures can cause stress to your succulent and lead to discoloration.

Q9. Can Lack Of Sunlight Turn Succulents Red?

A9. Yes, insufficient sunlight can cause succulents to lose their green color and turn red.

Q10. Can I Use Fertilizer To Prevent My Succulent From Turning Red?

A10. Yes, you can use a balanced fertilizer to provide your succulent with essential nutrients. However, it is essential to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can also cause root burn and lead to discoloration.