Succulent Myths Busted: What Most People Get Wrong About These Stylish Plants

Succulents have been riding high on the plant popularity chart for years now—and for good reason. They're beautiful, trendy, and low maintenance... or so we’ve been told. But as with anything that becomes an Instagram sensation, myths abound.

Today, we’re taking the pruning shears to five of the most common succulent myths, and showing you what these stylish green roommates actually need to thrive. Whether you're a plant newbie, an obsessed collector, or just looking for a fun group activity (hello, succulent workshops), this one's for you.

Myth: “Succulents Don’t Need Water”

Let’s get this one out of the way early. Are succulents drought-tolerant? Yes. Do they enjoy being left for dead on your windowsill? Not so much.

Most succulents still like a good drink, just not frequently. In fact, underwatering is just as much of a death sentence as overwatering. Instead of going by a strict weekly schedule, feel the soil. If it's bone dry, it’s time to give them a sip (and no, misting doesn’t count). Think of it like brunch: not every day, but when it happens, go all in.

Curious about which plants are easiest to start with? Check out our 10 Easy-to-Care-for Succulents for Beginners.

Myth 2: “You Can Just Stick Them Anywhere”

We see this one a lot—succulents crammed into dim corners, bookshelves, or even bathrooms with zero natural light. While they may look pretty there, your plant is probably plotting its escape.

Succulents are sun worshippers. Most of them need 6–8 hours of bright, indirect light a day. That means window sills, south-facing desks, or well-lit spots are prime succulent real estate.

But if you're short on sunlight, don’t fret. Some varieties of succulents thrive in lower light!

Myth 3: “Succulents Are Impossible to Kill”

We hate to break it to you... but yes, you can kill a succulent. And many have. RIP to all the crispy echeverias and mushy jades out there.

Succulents are tough, sure, but they still need the basics:

• The right soil (no, not regular potting mix)

• A drainage hole (yes, this matters!)

• Adequate light

• The occasional pep talk

The good news? Once you know what they like, they really are chill, forgiving plants. Need proof? Read our post: Succ It Up: Why Succulents Are the Low-Maintenance Roommates You Never Knew You Needed.

Myth 4: “Succulent Terrariums Are Just for Decor”

Wrong. They're a lifestyle. A mini ecosystem, if you will.

Terrariums aren’t just stylish—they’re a creative, hands-on way to understand how succulents grow best. When you build your own, you’ll learn how to layer soil properly, position your plants for healthy airflow, and get a crash course in aesthetic arrangement. It’s part art, part science, and all fun.

Want to make one without getting soil in your kitchen? Our Succulent Workshops bring the experience to you—perfect for team bonding, birthday parties, or just a night of plant-fueled fun.

And if you're ready to DIY, don't miss our Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Succulent Terrarium.

Myth 5: “Succulents Can Thrive Anywhere”

If by “anywhere” you mean “anywhere with the right conditions,” then sure. But your wintery windowsill in Boston might not cut it year-round.

Succulents, especially those from warm, arid climates, don’t always love cold drafts or humidity. In cities like Boston, that means adjusting care seasonally—moving them away from cold windows in winter, and watching out for excessive indoor heat that dries them out.

But don’t worry, you don’t need a greenhouse to make it work. Just a little awareness and, well, a solid understanding of what these plants actually want (which you now have).

Give Your Plants, and Your Creativity, Room to Grow

Succulents might be misunderstood, but that doesn’t mean they’re hard to love. With the right info, a little sunlight, and a splash of personality, they’ll thrive, and so will your space.

Want to skip the trial and error? Verdure Studio’s succulent terrarium workshops are the perfect hands-on experience for beginners, plant lovers, and groups looking for something creative and fun. We bring everything you need to your location, just show up and let the planting begin.

Book your workshop today and bust some myths in style.

BOOK A SUCCULENT WORKSHOP

save to Pinterest