Succulents (general) — common problems

Find the symptom you're seeing for the likely cause and fix.

Yellow, soft, mushy leaves

Likely cause: Overwatering.

Fix: Let soil dry thoroughly between waterings; use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.

Etiolation (stretched, pale, leggy growth)

Likely cause: Insufficient light.

Fix: Move to brighter spot; provide 10+ hours of light; use LED grow lights ~12 in away if needed.

Root rot (dropping/shriveling despite wet soil)

Likely cause: Prolonged waterlogged soil starves roots of oxygen.

Fix: Let soil dry completely; adopt a wet-dry cycle; propagate healthy segments if severe.

Shriveled, browning leaves that drop

Likely cause: Underwatering / extended dryness.

Fix: Water when soil is dry to the touch.

Brown/tan sunburn patches

Likely cause: Sudden move from low to bright light.

Fix: Acclimate gradually to brighter light.

Mealybugs (cottony masses on veins)

Likely cause: Pest infestation.

Fix: Isolate; dab with rubbing alcohol or use neem oil; repeat as needed.

Source: extension care guide. Symptoms often overlap — match the conditions (light, watering, humidity) to your situation.

Other houseplants

General care guidance from university extension sources — not a substitute for diagnosing your specific plant and conditions. How this works.