How to Make Succulent Plant Soil

Succulents, a family of plants characterized by thick and fleshy leaves or stems, are typically grown as container plants or used in areas that require little water and well-draining soil. Popular succulent choices include aloe, hens and chicks, sedum and the hundreds of varieties of cacti. Typical commercial potting soils are not formulated for the conditions needed for these dry-loving plants, and formulas created specifically for succulents can be expensive and difficult to find. With a few basic ingredients found in any garden department, you can create your own for less.

Potting Soil
Peat Moss
Perlite
Coarse sand
Measuring cup
Bucket
Hand shovel (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Measure out two parts potting soil. The actual size of the measuring cup will be dependent on how much succulent soil you need. Most quality potting soils are mixed with water retention in mind and are created for flowers and vegetables that need more regular watering than succulents require.
- 2
  Add one part peat moss, which is a lightweight, dried moss used in gardening to aid in drainage over a long period of time.
- 3
  Add one part perlite. Perlite is a porous volcanic stone that has been pulverized into a fine powder, and it is found in commercial potting soil to help retain moisture and keep the soil lightweight. Adding more perlite helps maintain the light, sandy soil needed for succulents.
- 4
  Add one part coarse sand such as a builder's grade sand.
- 5
  Mix well using your hands or a hand shovel. The soil mixture will be extremely lightweight and easy to manipulate.

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Soil