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.
Moreover, 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.
Also to know is, how do you mix succulent soil?
The best mixing ratio of the three ingredients is two parts sand, two parts gardening soil, and one-part perlite or pumice. Translating this to cups makes it 3 cups of sand, 3 cups of soil, and 1.5 cups of perlite or pumice. The purpose of pumice or perlite is to aid in aeration and 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.
Can you put too much perlite in soil?
Can you put too much perlite in potting soil? Too much perlite in potting soil will cause water to drain out too quickly. A possible sign of too much perlite is when the plant starts the shrivel or yellow and the soil remains dry even though you water regularly.
What is a good substitute for perlite?
What is a good substitute for perlite?
- Rice husks.
- Pumice.
- Horticultural grit.
- Granite gravel.
- Vermiculite.
- Calcined clay.
- Bark.
- Peat.
