Is Cactus Soil Good for Lavender?

Lavender Soil Requirements

• Lavender needs soil that drains very quickly and does not hold moisture close to the roots for a long period. Dense soils, such as clay, or those high in fine organic matter, such as silt, introduce fungal root rot diseases that kill the lavender plant. However, if the soil stays dry for too long, it will not recove.

Cactus Soil Characteristics

• Cactus soil mixes vary by producer, but most contain horticultural sand, perlite and a peat-based potting soil. The small amount of peat-based potting soil provides minimal organic matter for nutrition. The other ingredients provide excellent drainage so that cactus roots won't rot.

Benefits

• The good drainage provided by cactus potting soils makes them well suited for lavender plants. If the particular cactus soil mix contains only minimal organic material, this is fine. Prepackaged cactus soil is usually sterilized, which means soil-borne diseases are less of a problem for the container-grown lavender.

Considerations

• Cactus soil mixes are expensive. While they're good for lavender, they aren't the only good soil for planting lavender. Homemade mixes blended to drain well work fine, as do generic, light potting mixes. The most important thing about soil for lavender is drainage. Adding rocks to cactus soil enhances drainage.