Alright, let’s talk about dirt! Specifically, the stuff I use to keep my cacti and succulents happy. I messed around with a bunch of different mixes over the years, and finally landed on something that works pretty darn well for me.
First things first: Why not just regular potting soil? Good question! Regular potting soil is usually too dense for these guys. It holds too much water, and that’s a recipe for root rot. Cacti and succulents need a well-draining mix that dries out quickly.
So, I started experimenting. I read a bunch of stuff online (take it all with a grain of salt, people!), and gradually tweaked my recipe. Here’s what I ended up with:
- Potting Soil (about 1/3): I use a basic, inexpensive potting soil as a base. Don’t get the super moisture-retentive stuff! Just a regular ol’ bag from the garden center. I sift it to get the big chunks out, makes it easier to mix.
- Coarse Sand (about 1/3): This is key for drainage. I use construction sand, but make sure it’s washed! You don’t want all that silt and clay in your mix. Rinse it really well before you use it. Play sand can also work if it’s coarse enough, but again, wash it!
- Perlite (about 1/3): More drainage and aeration! Perlite is that white, popcorn-looking stuff. Don’t breathe it in! It’s dusty.
The Mixing Process: It’s not rocket science, but here’s what I do. I grab a big plastic tub – one of those storage containers works great. I dump in my sifted potting soil, then add the washed sand, then the perlite. Then, I get my hands in there (wear gloves if you want!) and mix it all up real good until it’s evenly distributed. I look for a uniform color and texture.
Important Note: I don’t measure exactly. It’s more about the general proportions. You want it to feel gritty and airy. If it feels too heavy or dense, add more sand and perlite. If it feels too light, add a bit more potting soil.
Potting Time: When I’m repotting a cactus or succulent, I make sure the pot has good drainage holes. I put a layer of this mix in the bottom, then gently remove the plant from its old pot. I loosen up the roots a little bit, and then plop it into the new pot. I fill in around the plant with more of the mix, and gently tamp it down.
Aftercare: Don’t water right away! Let the plant sit for a few days so any damaged roots can callous over. Then, water thoroughly, but only when the soil is completely dry. I mean bone dry. Stick your finger in there to check! And make sure the water drains freely from the bottom of the pot.
The Results: My cacti and succulents seem to love this mix. They’re growing well, and I haven’t had any problems with root rot. It’s a cheap and easy mix to make, and it’s saved me a lot of headaches.
Disclaimer: This is just what works for me, in my climate (which is fairly dry). You might need to adjust the proportions depending on your own conditions. Experiment and see what works best for you! Happy planting!
