From our perspective, the single most critical factor in our soil is its ability to drain water rapidly and completely. Our roots are highly susceptible to rot if left sitting in moisture. A soggy environment suffocates us, preventing oxygen from reaching our root systems and creating the perfect conditions for harmful fungi to attack. Therefore, the ideal soil is not one that retains water like a sponge, but one that allows it to flow through freely, providing a quick drink before becoming almost dry again. This cycle of thorough watering followed by a period of dryness mimics the natural arid conditions we have evolved to thrive in.
We do not fare well in dense, heavy soils like standard potting mix or garden soil alone. These materials compact over time, choking our roots and holding far too much water. The perfect growing medium for us is a specially formulated succulent or cactus mix. However, even these commercial mixes can sometimes benefit from extra grit. Our preferred blend is a base of potting soil amended heavily with inorganic materials. A mix of one part standard potting soil to one part perlite and one part coarse sand is excellent. The perlite creates air pockets for oxygen, while the coarse sand ensures the soil structure remains loose and well-draining, preventing compaction and allowing our roots to spread easily and breathe.
While drainage is paramount, the chemical environment of the soil also matters to us. We prefer a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. This pH range allows for the optimal availability of essential nutrients that we need for growth and maintaining our vibrant green (or sometimes red) foliage. Most high-quality succulent potting mixes are already pH-balanced within this range. Using water that is very hard (high in dissolved minerals) over a long period can gradually alter the soil pH, which is one reason why repotting us every few years in fresh soil is beneficial for our long-term health.
We are not heavy feeders. In fact, an overly rich soil, high in organic matter and nutrients like nitrogen, can be detrimental. It may encourage weak, leggy growth that is prone to damage and can actually hinder the development of our characteristic compact form. Our soil should be "lean" – providing a stable foundation and good drainage rather than an abundance of fertilizer. The nutrients we do need are best provided through a light, controlled application of a diluted, balanced fertilizer during our active growing season (spring and summer), not from the soil itself. The organic component in the potting soil base will provide a slow, minimal release of nutrients, which is perfectly sufficient.
The physical structure of the soil must remain stable and not break down into mush too quickly. This is why the inclusion of inorganic, gritty components is so vital. Over time, even the best soil will compact and degrade, losing its aeration and drainage properties. This is the signal that it is time for you to repot us into a fresh mix. When you do, gently loosening our root ball and placing us in a new, gritty home feels like a rejuvenating upgrade, allowing for continued healthy growth and preventing the dreaded root rot.
