Succulent Soil: Ultimate Guide & 4 DIY Recipes to Keep Your Succulents Happy and Healthy

Proper succulent soil is a crucial aspect of succulent care and its composition can greatly impact the growth and health of your cherished plants. The “perfect” soil mix will vary from grower to grower, so my best advice overall is to experiment!

In this post, we will discuss the ideal succulent soil composition, common soil types, how to properly amend your succulent soil with both organic and inorganic matter, pros and cons of the different succulent soil amendments and provide some succulent soil recipes for you to try at home.

Additionally, we will cover container and potting considerations to ensure your succulents have the best soil conditions for healthy growth as well as how to reuse old soil.

Slapping succulent soil bag succulent soil
Try to walk by a bag of soil at the garden center and tell me you have no desire to slap it. I dare you.

*This is nowhere near an exhaustive guide on the different types of succulent soil and soil amendments that you can use for your succulents. The combinations are infinite! Experiment, experiment experiment! Then share your perfect succulent soil mix recipe with your friends!

Best succulent soil mixes

Succulent Soil Composition

Succulents need soil that is well-draining, with a high proportion of inorganic matter such as coarse sand, pumice, or perlite. This helps to ensure that excess water can quickly drain away from the roots, preventing root rot. Organic matter, such as peat moss or coco coir, can also be added to the soil to provide additional aeration and water-holding capacity if your climate deems it necessary.

Common Soil Types

Null

Some commonly used succulent soil types, such as generic potting soil or garden soil, may not be suitable for succulents because they hold too much moisture which can cause root rot.

Other soil types, such as cactus or succulent soil, are formulated specifically for these plants and are an okay choice. However, most cactus and succulent soils sold in large bags at big box stores are still too organic and I heavily amend them anyways.

This is my preferred pre-made succulent soil and is only about $9 from Home Depot.

Proper succulent soil prevents root rot

Testing and Adjusting Soil pH

Succulents prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6 and 7.5. To test the pH of your soil, you can use a soil pH test kit, which can be purchased at most garden centers and online. If the pH is too high or too low, you can adjust it by adding lime or sulfur to the soil.

Lime and sulfur are minerals that are commonly used generally in horticulture as soil amendments. Lime is used to raise the pH of soil, which makes it more alkaline, while sulfur is used to lower the pH of soil, which makes it more acidic.

Benefits of adding lime and sulfur to succulent soil:

  • Lime can help to reduce soil acidity and promote healthy plant growth in soils that are too acidic for succulents. (Amazon) (Home Depot)
  • Sulfur can help to reduce soil alkalinity and create a more suitable growing environment for succulents that prefer acidic soils. (Amazon) (Home Depot)
Drainage and aeration are crucial for succulent health succulent soil

Amounts to Use

It is important to use lime and sulfur in moderation, as excessive amounts of either can be harmful to succulents. To add them to your succulent soil, you should first have the soil tested to determine its current pH level. Based on the results of the soil test, you can determine how much lime or sulfur you need to add to adjust the pH to the appropriate level for your succulent.

How to Add Them to Your Soil

Lime and sulfur should be mixed thoroughly into the soil and should not be applied directly to the leaves or stems of the succulents, as this can cause injury or damage. Additionally, it is important to follow the instructions on the product label carefully, as the amount of lime or sulfur needed will vary depending on the type of soil and the desired pH level.

When to Add Them

In general, it is best to add lime or sulfur to your succulent soil in the spring, before the start of the growing season, to give the succulents time to adjust to the new soil conditions before they begin to grow.

Succulent plants need soil that is well draining succulent soil

Organic Soil Amendments

Organic matter, such as peat moss or coco coir, can help to improve the structure of the succulent soil and increase its water-holding capacity. It also helps to provide a source of slow-release nutrients for the succulents. Some common organic amendments used for succulents include: peat moss, coco coir, compost, and worm castings.

How Much to Use and How to Mix in Amendments

To incorporate organic amendments into the soil, start by mixing the amendment with the existing succulent soil at a ratio of about 1:1. Then, use your hands or a garden fork to evenly distribute the amendment throughout. Adjust as you see fit.

Coconut Coir

Coconut coir is a byproduct of coconut processing and is made from the fibrous husks of coconuts. When processed and cleaned, it can be used as a soil amendment for various types of plants, including succulents. (Amazon) (Home Depot)

Coco coir is a great sustainable soil amendment succulent soil
Coconut coir is great for new succulent pups while they’re small and vulnerable.

Pros of using coconut coir as an amendment in succulent soil include:

  • Improved water retention: Coconut coir has a high water-holding capacity, which can help improve soil moisture levels and reduce the frequency of watering.
  • Good aeration: Coconut coir has a loose, spongy texture that provides good aeration for roots, promoting healthy root growth.
  • Renewable resource: Coconut coir is a renewable resource that is sustainable and environmentally friendly.
  • pH neutral: Coconut coir has a neutral pH, which means it won’t affect soil acidity levels.
  • Great for rooting and promoting root growth, which helps small delicate seedlings and leaf pups to survive the early, vulnerable stage.

Cons of using coconut coir as an amendment in succulent soil include:

  • High salt content: Coconut coir can contain high levels of salts that can be harmful to some types of plants, including succulents.
  • Poor nutrient content: Coconut coir has a low nutrient content, meaning that additional fertilization may be necessary to maintain plant health.
  • Potential for mold growth: Coconut coir is highly absorbent, which can create a moist environment that is conducive to mold growth.
  • Availability and Cost: Depending on your location, coconut coir may not be readily available. I find it to also be a bit more expensive than other soil amendments. Every now and then I’ll find a good deal on Amazon and stock up.

Overall, the use of coconut coir as an amendment in succulent soil can provide some benefits, but it’s important to consider the cons before making a decision. It’s also important to thoroughly rinse coconut coir to remove any excess salts and to mix it with other soil components to create a well-draining succulent soil mix.

Compost

Compost is a mixture of organic materials that have decomposed and broken down into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. It is often made from yard waste such as leaves, grass clippings, and plant debris, as well as food waste and other organic materials.

Compost tea fertilizer for succulents succulent soil

Pros of using compost in succulent soil:

  • Provides nutrients: Compost contains a range of essential nutrients that succulents need for healthy growth, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
  • Improves soil structure: Compost helps to improve the structure of soil, making it easier for roots to grow and absorb water and nutrients.
  • Reduces waste: Using compost helps to reduce waste by recycling organic materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Cons of using compost in succulent soil:

  • Can be too rich: If compost is too rich in nitrogen, it can cause succulents to grow too quickly, making them more susceptible to disease and pest problems.
  • May contain pathogens: If compost is not made or managed properly, it can contain pathogens that can harm succulents.
  • Can retain too much moisture: Compost can retain a lot of moisture, which can be problematic for succulents that prefer well-drained soil.
  • May contain weed seeds: If compost is made from yard waste, it may contain weed seeds that can sprout and become a problem in the garden.
  • Can be inconsistent: Depending on the ingredients used and the method of composting, the nutrient content and pH of compost can vary widely, making it difficult to achieve consistent results.
Making compost tea for succulents succulent soil

Using compost can be beneficial for planting succulents, but it is important to use it in moderation and to make sure it is properly aged and weed-free. It may also be a good idea to mix compost with other materials, such as sand or perlite, to improve drainage and avoid over-fertilizing.

Worm Castings

Worm castings are a type of compost produced by earthworms as they digest organic matter. They are rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms, and are commonly used as a soil amendment in gardening and agriculture. (Live worms- Amazon) (Pre-made worm castings Home Depot and Ace Hardware)

Worm castings succulent soil

Pros of using worm castings in succulent soil:

  • High in nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which can help to promote healthy growth in succulents.
  • Contains beneficial microorganisms that can improve soil structure and fertility.
  • Helps to retain moisture in the soil, which is important for succulents that do not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Worm castings are a rich organic soil amendment succulent soil
Crazy that you can buy live worms on Amazon.

Cons of using worm castings in succulent soil:

  • Can be expensive compared to other types of compost or soil amendments.
  • Can cause root rot if used in excessive amounts or if the soil is not well-drained.
  • Can attract pests, such as mites or fungus gnats, if the worm castings are not stored properly.

Worm castings can be a useful soil amendment for succulents if used in moderation and in combination with other well-draining materials. However, it is important to make sure that the worm castings are of good quality and stored properly to avoid attracting pests or causing root rot.

Echeveria pups growing from the base of the succulent succulent soil
Look at those babies grow!

Livestock Manure

Manure is organic matter, usually from farm animals, that is used as a soil amendment to improve soil fertility and structure. It’s super cheap at Home Depot.

Aged or composted manure soil amendment succulent soil
Be sure to use aged manure. You don’t want the fresh stuff. Ew.

Pros of using manure in succulent soil include:

  • Improving soil fertility: Manure is a good source of nutrients for plants, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
  • Improving soil structure: Manure can help improve soil structure by increasing its ability to hold water and air, which is important for the growth and health of succulents.

Cons of using manure in succulent soil include:

  • Salt content: Manure can contain high levels of salts that can be harmful to succulents if not properly aged or composted.
  • Ammonia levels: Fresh manure can have elevated levels of ammonia that can harm succulents, so it’s important to use aged or composted manure.
  • Pathogens: Fresh manure can also contain pathogens that can be harmful to succulents, so it’s important to use aged or composted manure.
  • Potentially toxic chemicals: Manure from animals that have been treated with antibiotics or other chemicals can contain toxic residues that can harm plants.

Using manure in succulent soil can have benefits, but it’s important to use aged or composted manure and to be aware of its potential downsides.

Horticultural Charcoal

Horticultural charcoal, also known as activated charcoal or black charcoal, is a highly porous form of carbon that is created by heating natural sources such as wood or coconut shells in the absence of oxygen. When used as a soil amendment, it can help improve soil structure, increase water and nutrient retention, and provide a habitat for beneficial microbes. (Amazon) (Home Depot)

Horticultural charcoal uses
Horticultural charcoal.

Pros of using horticultural charcoal as a soil amendment for succulent soil include:

  • Improved soil structure: Horticultural charcoal helps improve soil structure by providing a network of tiny pores that can absorb water and nutrients, leading to better root growth and overall plant health.
  • Increased water retention: The high porosity of horticultural charcoal can help absorb and retain water in the soil, which is especially beneficial for succulents that require well-draining soil.
  • Decontamination: Activated charcoal can help remove impurities, toxins, and pathogens from soil.

Cons of using horticultural charcoal as a soil amendment for succulent soil include:

  • Cost: Activated charcoal is relatively expensive compared to other soil amendments.
  • Incompatibility with some fertilizers: Activated charcoal can bind with some fertilizers, reducing their availability to plants, so it’s important to avoid over-fertilizing when using horticultural charcoal in the soil.
  • Availability: Depending on your location, horticultural charcoal may not be readily available.

Overall, the use of horticultural charcoal as a succulent soil amendment can be beneficial, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Peat Moss

Peat moss is a type of moss that accumulates in peat bogs, composed mostly of dead and decomposed of Sphagnum moss. In large commercial gardening operations it is often used as a soil amendment or as a growing medium for plants.

Pros of using peat moss in succulent soil:

  • Nothing that comes to mind for succulents. There are much better options out there.

Cons of using peat moss in succulent soil:

  • Slow to decompose: Peat moss decomposes very slowly, which means it can take a long time for the soil to break down and release nutrients for plant growth.
  • pH imbalance: Peat moss is naturally acidic, which can upset the pH balance of soil if too much is used and make it difficult for some succulents to absorb nutrients.
  • Environmentally harmful: Harvesting peat moss can be environmentally harmful, as it destroys peat bogs and releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
  • Once it has dried out, it is practically impossible to re-wet it. A pot of dry peat moss will basically float if you water it properly.

Alternative materials, such as coconut coir or compost, may be more sustainable options.

Inorganic Soil Amendments

Inorganic matter, such as Turface, pumice, or perlite, helps to improve the drainage and aeration of succulent soil. These materials are also non-reactive, which helps to maintain a stable soil pH. Some common inorganic amendments used for succulents include: pumice, perlite, Turface MVP and chicken grit. To incorporate inorganic amendments into succulent soil, start by mixing the amendment with the existing soil at a ratio of about 1:3. Then, use your hands or a garden fork to evenly distribute the amendment throughout the soil. Like I said before, the best way to find the “perfect” soil mix is to experiment.

Perlite

Perlite is a type of volcanic glass that is expanded and used as a soil amendment in gardening and agriculture. It is light, porous, and has excellent water-retention properties. (Amazon) (Home Depot)

Half perlite half potting soil for succulents that need fast draining soil
Half perlite, half generic soil.

Pros of using perlite as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Improves soil aeration, which can promote healthy root growth in succulents.
  • Helps to retain moisture in the soil, which is important for succulents that do not tolerate waterlogged soil.
  • Lightweight, making it easy to work with and to move succulents around.

Cons of using perlite as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Can be expensive compared to other types of soil amendments.
  • Does not add any nutrients to the soil, so it is best used in combination with other soil amendments that provide nutrients.
  • Will float to the surface of the soil.

Perlite can be a useful succulent soil amendment if used in moderation and in combination with other soil amendments that provide nutrients. Its ability to retain moisture and improve soil aeration makes it a good choice for succulent soil, but it should be used in conjunction with other soil amendments to provide a well-rounded soil mix for succulent growth.

Pumice

Pumice is a type of volcanic rock that is porous and light in weight. It is used as a soil amendment in gardening and agriculture due to its unique physical properties. (Amazon) (Home Depot)

Succulents prefer a slightly acidic soil succulent soil
Aloe brevifolia planted in soil heavily amended with pumice.

Pros of using pumice as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Improves soil aeration, which can promote healthy root growth in succulents.
  • Helps to retain moisture in the soil, which is important for succulents that do not tolerate waterlogged soil.
  • Lightweight, but doesn’t float like pumice, making it easy to work with and to move plants around.
  • Adds trace minerals to the soil, which can benefit the overall health of the succulents.
Pumice is an excellent alternative to pumice succulent soil
Find pumice at your local feed and tack store under the name Dry Stall.

Cons of using pumice as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Can be expensive compared to other types of soil amendments.
  • Can be difficult to find in some places. Garden centers usually sell smaller bags of it, but my best advice is to get it from your local horse supply/feed and tack store. They sell huge bags of it under the name Dry Stall. Don’t confuse it with Stall Dry which is not the same at all.

Pumice can be a useful succulent soil amendment due to its ability to improve soil aeration, retain moisture, and add minerals to the soil.

Turface MVP

Turface MVP is a type of calcined clay product that is used as a soil amendment in sports fields and in horticulture. It is prized for its ability to absorb and release moisture, as well as its porous structure which promotes good aeration in the soil. (Amazon) (Home Depot)

Turface soil amendment succulent soil
I love me some Turface.

Pros of using Turface MVP as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Improves soil aeration, which can promote healthy root growth in succulents.
  • Helps to regulate soil moisture, which is important for succulents that do not tolerate waterlogged soil.
  • Adds trace minerals to the soil, which can benefit the overall health of your succulents.
  • Long-lasting, so it does not need to be replaced as frequently as other soil amendments.

Cons of using Turface MVP as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Can be expensive compared to other types of soil amendments.
  • Can be difficult to find in some places. I buy my Turface from landscaper supply stores like SiteOne or Ewing Irrigation in huge bags.
Turface mvp soil amendment guide succulent soil

Generic Calcined Clay

One thing you can do to save some money on calcined clay is to buy Oil-Dry spill absorbent from your local big box store. I find it at Lowe’s (HD for some reason doesn’t carry it near me) in the aisle where they keep brooms and mops. OR plain, non clumping, unscented Jonny Cat kitty litter can be used as well. Both of these products are calcined clay and made of the same ingredients as Turface. The difference is that Turface is red and Oil-Dry/Jonny Cat are gray.

In conclusion, Turface MVP/calcined clay can be a useful succulent soil amendment due to its ability to regulate soil moisture, improve soil aeration, and add minerals to the soil.

LECA

LECA stands for Light Expanded Clay Aggregate. It is a type of clay product that has been fired at high temperatures to create a porous, lightweight material. LECA is used as a soil amendment or as a solo growing medium in horticulture, hydroponic systems, and aquaponics. (Amazon) (Home Depot)

Leca for succulents succulent soil

Pros of using LECA as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Improves soil aeration, which can promote healthy root growth in succulents.
  • Helps to regulate soil moisture, which is important for succulents since they don’t like to sit in wet soil.
  • Lightweight, making it easy to work with and to move your succulents around.
  • Long-lasting, so it does not need to be replaced as frequently as other soil amendments.
  • I also think the little balls look cool as a top dressing.

Cons of using LECA as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Can be expensive compared to other types of soil amendments.
  • Can float to the surface of the soil if not mixed in thoroughly, which can detract from the appearance of the soil.
  • Can be hard to find in some places.

IKEA, of all places, carries LECA in their plant department which is where I usually get mine. If you have any hydroponic supply stores, you’ll find it there as well.

LECA can be a useful succulent soil amendment due to its ability to regulate soil moisture and improve soil aeration.

Expanded clay leca pon and succulents 1 succulent soil

Growing Succulents Hydroponically in LECA

Yes, it is possible to grow succulents hydroponically. Hydroponic gardening is a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient solution and a growing medium to support the roots. Succulents can be grown hydroponically in a variety of growing media, such as LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate), rockwool, or perlite. These growing media provide good drainage and aeration, which succulents need to thrive.

It is important to note that succulents grown hydroponically will require a nutrient solution specifically formulated for them and regular monitoring of pH and EC levels. Additionally, succulents grown hydroponically will need bright, indirect light and infrequent watering.

Overall, growing succulents hydroponically is a viable option but it does require more attention and care than growing them in soil. It is important to research and understand the requirements of succulent hydroponic growing before attempting it.

LECA is an excellent growing medium for succulents. Its porous structure and good drainage and aeration make it the perfect choice for these hardy plants. It’s also a more sustainable option than soil and other hydroponic media.

Chicken Grit

Chicken grit is a type of coarse, abrasive material that is fed to chickens to help grind their food in their gizzards. It is also used in horticulture as a succulent soil amendment. (Amazon)

Pros of using chicken grit as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • Improves soil structure.
  • Adds minerals to the soil, which can benefit the general health of the succulents.
  • Inexpensive compared to other types of soil amendments.

Cons of using chicken grit as an amendment for succulent soil:

  • It isn’t porous, so it won’t hold aerate the soil as much as other amendments.
  • If not rinsed before using, it may affect the nutrient balance.
  • Using the wrong kind of chicken grit can really upset the nutrient and pH balance in your soil. Make sure your grit is NOT made of oyster shells and is made of crushed granite instead.

Chicken grit can be a useful succulent soil amendment due to its lower cost, ability to regulate soil moisture and improve soil aeration.

Other Soil Amendments Worth Trying:

  • Crushed lava rock, also known as scoria
  • Larger particles of decomposed granite (DG)
  • Coarse builder’s sand (Beach sand will absolutely clog your soil and is too salty. Just don’t.)
Can i repot a stressed succulent 1 succulent soil

Container and Potting Considerations

When it comes to picking a pot for your succulent, it’s important to think about the size and how well it drains. Succulents like to be snug in a container with holes at the bottom to let excess water escape. Drainage and air flow are key for their health because it helps prevent root rot and promotes growth. Keep in mind that the type of succulent soil you use and the pot you choose can affect watering. For example, plastic and glazed pots retain moisture more than porous clay or terra cotta pots.

What are the effects of efflorescence on succulents in terracotta pots succulent soil

When it’s time to switch pots, gently remove the plant from its current container, loosen any tangled roots, add a bit of succulent soil to the bottom of the new pot, and then backfill with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets.

Moisture in the soil can seep into the clay and dissolve the salts present in the pot succulent soil

When growing succulents, the pot size and material can affect the plant’s appearance and health. For the pot size, make sure there’s enough room for your plant to comfortably fit with a finger-width distance from the edge of the pot. For shorter, round succulents, choose a round pot and for taller succulents, go for a pot that’s about half the height of the plant at its maturity. If you have a cluster of succulents, opt for a shallower pot since those roots tend to grow laterally and intertwine with each other.

Efflorescence on terracotta pots succulent soil

Clay pots let water evaporate and flow in from all sides, keeping roots cool. Plastic pots keep soil wetter but can accumulate salt and algae over time. Glass and glazed ceramics act a lot like plastic pots. Pot color also matters. Dark colors absorb light while lighter colors reflect it. White pots are more likely to get algae if in direct sunlight, while darker pots are less likely.

After repotting, it’s recommended to let the plant rest for a week or so before watering, but some people water right away without any issues. Gradually acclimate the plant to direct sunlight after repotting and let it rest in bright shade first to avoid sunburnt succulents.

Terracotta pots succulent soil
Terracotta pots help regulate moisture.

Ultimately, there’s no one right way to grow succulents, so it’s important to understand your plant’s specific needs and adapt. Experimenting with different pot sizes, materials, and drainage options can help you find what works best for your plant.

Succulent Soil Recipes

Succulent soil gritty amendments succulent soil
  1. Basic Succulent Soil Recipe:
  • 2 parts generic topsoil/potting soil
  • 2 parts coarse sand or perlite
  • 1 part coco coir
  • 1 part grit or pumice
  1. Cactus Soil Recipe:
  • 1 parts generic topsoil/potting soil
  • 2 parts coarse sand or perlite
  • 2 parts chicken grit or pumice
  • 1 part compost or well-rotted manure
In ground succulent soil recipe
Diy succulent soil recipe
  1. DIY Succulent Soil Mix:
  • 1 part generic potting/topsoil
  • 1 part coarse sand or perlite
  • 1 part coco coir
  • 1 part worm castings or compost
  1. In-ground Succulent Soil Mix:
  • 3 parts native soil
  • 3 parts coarse sand or perlite
  • 2 parts compost or well-rotted manure
  • 1 part chicken grit or pumice
Basic succulent soil

Can you reuse old soil?

YES! If you want to keep your succulent soil clean and healthy, sterilizing it is a must. This kills off harmful organisms, but the good nitrate-producing bacteria can still survive. When starting seeds or cuttings, it’s especially important to sterilize the soil to protect them at their most fragile, vulnerable stage. You can even sterilize the new MiracleGro soil you bought at your local big box store to ensure it is free from disease before planting.

How to Easily Sterilize Your Succulent Soil

Materials Needed:

  • Baking pan
  • Moist soil
  • Aluminum foil
  • Thermometer (optional)
Sterilize succulent soil in the oven succulent soil
Easily Sterilize Your Succulent Soil in Your Oven or Microwave

Directions:

  1. Prepare the soil: Put a few inches of moist soil in the baking pan.
  2. Cover with foil: Cover the soil with foil to prevent it from over-heating.
  3. Heat the soil: Place the pan in a cold oven and heat it slowly until it reaches 180 F. Turn off the oven.
  4. Cool the soil: Let the soil cool in the oven for at least 30 minutes before removing the foil.
  5. Avoid over-heating: Be careful not to overheat the succulent soil, as it will kill all life in the soil (including the beneficial bacteria) and smell really bad. Heating the soil over 180 F or longer than 30 minutes will sterilize the soil.

Alternatively, you can microwave it for anywhere between 5-10 minutes.

By following these steps, you will have sterilized your succulent soil, killing off harmful organisms while keeping the beneficial bacteria intact. This will ensure a clean and healthy environment for your succulents to grow in.

In conclusion, there’s just so so so much to cover about succulent soil and if we were hanging out, we could experiment with different mixes for hours upon hours. Take this and all other advice with a grain of salt and figure out what works best for YOU. This is just a starting point to get you headed in the right direction. Now…

Let’s talk about fertilizer.