Gritty Soil Mix Recipe for Succulents

Ingredients

• Most succulents need a potting soil that drains quickly while still supplying some nutrients and soil structure for the roots. Commercial potting soil or sterilized garden soil provides both structure and nutrients, but it retains too much moisture to work well on its own. Peat moss also provides structure and is naturally sterile, but it doesn't retain too much moisture so it helps aerate the potting mix. Coarse sand, perlite or vermiculite supply additional sterile gritty materials that ensure proper drainage.

Recipe

• The right combination of potting mix materials is vital to the health of succulents. Mixing together equal parts soil, peat and sand, perlite or vermiculite provides a simple formula suitable for all container sizes. Peat moss requires rehydration before use, because it's usually sold in dry compressed bricks. Soak the peat in water for 30 minutes, then squeeze out the excess moisture before adding the other ingredients. Mix all the ingredients together completely before planting.

Nutrients

• Although the soil will provide some nutrients, it's usually not enough for early growth. Bone meal supplies phosphorus, a necessary nutrient for healthy succulent growth. Working ½ cup bonemeal into every 12 quarts of the potting mix before you plant adds the necessary phosphorus. Applications of a soluble plant fertilizer, made after planting, maintain the nutrient level and provide other necessary nutrients, including nitrogen and potassium. Any soluble all-purpose fertilizer works well, such as ½ teaspoon of a 24-8-16 formulation diluted in 1 gallon of water and applied every two to four weeks during spring and summer.

Container Concerns

• The best potting soil recipe won't help your succulents if they aren't potted correctly. All containers must have at least one bottom drainage hole so excess moisture can drain freely. Clay and terracotta pots are especially well-suited to succulents because the sides wick out excess moisture from the soil. Once planted, most succulents only require watering when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil becomes almost completely dry. Empty any water that drains from the pot into the drip tray beneath immediately so the potting mix doesn't reabsorb it.