For the best potting soil for succulents, start with a basic cactus and succulent soil mix, or even an African violet mix, available at most garden centers. Then add some extra ingredients to find the one that will make watering easier, improve the drainage, and hold up a long time without compacting.
Keeping this in view, how much perlite do I add to potting soil for succulents?
Perlite – Perlite is commonly included in most mixes for succulents. This product adds aeration and increases drainage; however, it is lightweight and often floats to the top when watered. Use at 1/3 to 1/2 in a mix with potting soil.
- 3 parts potting soil.
- 2 parts coarse sand (turface or poultry grit)
- 1 part perlite (or pumice)
Besides, what is a substitute for perlite?
Sand is an excellent alternative to perlite because it does not hold onto water and provides sharp drainage.
Which is better for succulents perlite or vermiculite?
Use perlite to root cuttings or grow cacti, succulents, epiphytes, and other plants that benefit from quickly draining soil with plenty of aeration. … Vermiculite is better suited for starting seeds and other situations when plants require plenty of moisture consistently available in their soil.
How do you make homemade perlite?
Mix equal parts of dry cement, sphagnum peat moss and perlite in a bucket or other container. Measure each ingredient by volume instead of by weight, so if you measure with a dry scoop, use an equal number of scoops of each ingredient.
Can you use vermiculite instead of perlite?
Perlite and vermiculite are both used to improve moisture retention and aeration in soil. They are used in a similar manner, but they are not interchangeable.
Is perlite or pumice better for succulents?
For plants like succulents that need excellent drainage, adding one-fourth to one-third perlite or pumice to the potting soil makes over-watering much more difficult. Using pumice for plants is a better choice if the plant is tall, because the weight of the pumice can help prevent the pot from toppling.
