Succulent Soil: Choosing the Right Mix for Thriving Plants

Succulents have become increasingly popular in recent years, but many growers struggle to keep them healthy. The secret to their success lies in the soil. Unlike most plants, succulents require a specific type of soil to thrive. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key factors to consider, review top commercial succulent soils, and even provide a simple recipe to make your own soil at home.

What Is the Perfect Succulent Soil?

The key to a healthy succulent is well-draining soil. Succulents are prone to rot if left in wet soil due to their ability to tolerate drought. To mimic their natural environment, which is often sandy or gravelly, you need a soil that drains well and dries out quickly.

Key Succulent Soil Factors

There are several factors that contribute to the ideal succulent soil. These include the type of soil, watering frequency, container choice, sunlight exposure, and airflow. Finding the right balance is essential, as different growers in varying environments may have different requirements. For instance, indoor growers may prefer a grittier soil to prevent pests, while outdoor growers in hot, windy climates may use a less porous soil to avoid excessive watering.

Soil Reviews and Recommendations

Here, we will compare and review different commercial succulent soils. Each soil has been tested for its field capacity and drying time. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, these options can be amended to meet your specific needs.

Potting Soil

Drainage Grade: B
Price: $4.89 – $5.47 per 8 qt.
Sources: Any garden center

Regular potting soil may not be the best choice for succulents, but with a few precautions, it can work. Look for a light mixture without vermiculite or moisture-retaining crystals. Ensure your container has proper drainage and water less frequently to allow the soil to dry out.

Black Gold® Cactus Mix

Drainage Grade: C
Price: $5.99 per 8 qt.
Source: Ace Hardware, Walmart

Despite its name, this soil mix does not offer the best drainage. It contains some pumice for drainage but takes longer to dry compared to other options. It may be suitable for pots in hot climates or for certain types of succulents, but for rapid drainage, you might want to explore other choices.

Miracle-Gro® Cactus Palm & Citrus

Drainage Grade: B
Price: $4.58 – $4.78 per 8 qt.
Sources: Lowe’s, Home Depot, Target

This mix is a standard option with an organic base of forest products and peat moss. It drains well and provides essential nutrients for growth without risking plant burn. While it may not be ideal for those who tend to overwater, it can be improved by mixing it with mineral materials.

Bonsai Jack Succulent & Cactus Soil

Drainage Grade: A+
Price: $29.49 per 8 qt.
Sources: Bonsai Jack, Amazon

This premium soil is in a league of its own. It consists of calcined clay and fine particles of pine bark, creating a light and gritty mix with excellent drainage. It is virtually impossible to overwater your plants with this soil. Though it comes at a higher price, it is highly recommended for growers who prioritize quality and reliability.

DIY Succulent Soil Recipe

If you prefer to create your own succulent soil mix, follow this general recipe. It can be adapted based on your plant varieties and growing conditions.

To achieve a balanced succulent soil, mix one part organic materials with two parts mineral materials. Organic options include pine bark, coconut coir, compost, or potting soil, while mineral choices range from coarse sand and perlite to volcanic rock, fine gravel, and chicken grit. Avoid minerals that retain water, such as vermiculite and non-calcined clays.

Outdoor Soil for Succulent Landscaping

When planting succulents outdoors, the soil requirements are less strict due to increased sunlight and airflow. While a gritty, sandy loam with a gravel mulch is ideal, outdoor conditions allow for greater flexibility in soil composition. Building berms or raised beds can improve drainage without changing the soil structure.

Peat Moss vs. Coconut Coir

Avoid using peat moss in succulent soil. It becomes hydrophobic when dry, making it difficult to rehydrate and fully saturate the soil. Peat moss is also less environmentally sustainable than coconut coir, which is a byproduct of coconut husking and regenerates quickly. Coir is a suitable choice for succulents, particularly in hot climates. To improve drainage, amend with coarse sand or perlite.

Conclusion

Choosing the right succulent soil is crucial to your plants’ health and success. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, a gritty, well-draining soil with a high mineral content is generally recommended. Pay attention to drying times and adjust the mineral-to-organic ratio as needed. Remember, soil is just one element of succulent care. Be sure to read our other guides on watering succulents, choosing pots, and top dressings to complete your knowledge.

Sources:

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