Are aerial roots on my succulent a bad sign?

Aerial roots is a topic I see coming up repeatedly in the questions people ask me about their plants. It is a really common problem and it can be quite alarming to suddenly see roots where they aren't supposed to be.

How to fix aerial roots

So first off, what exactly are aerial roots? Aerial roots are roots that grow out from the stems of your plants. They are usually white or pink and can seem to appear quite suddenly.


Aerial roots are not a great sign, they show that your succulent is struggling a little. The good news is, with a little care, it is usually quite easy to put things right again.

First and foremost check that your succulent is getting enough water. Aerial roots can be your plants way of reaching out to grab any moisture they can. The leaves on your succulent should be plump and firm, if they are looking wrinkled or are a little soft to the touch then you might be under watering or not watering deep enough. When you water your succulents you should give them a nice drenching, a little spritz of water isn't enough.

Succulent in need of water
The wrinkled leaves on this succulent show a need for water



Another possible cause is lack of nutrients, just like you your plants need to be fed the right nutrients to stay healthy. If you haven't re-potted your plant in a few years now might be a good time. Some nice fresh soil will help to give them some much-needed nutrients. Fertilising over Spring and Summer is important too. I fertilise once a month over this time, this is the all purpose fertiliser I tend to use. Make sure you are using the right soil too as this will impact your succulents health.

Lastly, check your plant is getting enough light. Often aerial roots will happen on plants that are etiolated. Make sure that your plant is in a bright spot.

Going through this list and making any changes that may be needed should help to stop aerial roots. If you think the aerial roots are unsightly you can chop them off but do make sure you find and treat the root cause.

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