The Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Soil for Succulent Plants

Many plant owners often wonder why their succulent plants struggle in regular potting soil. The issue lies in how standard mixes retain water. Succulents evolved in arid and semi-arid regions with fast-draining, mineral-heavy soil and minimal organic matter. This means the soil needs to dry quickly and stay loose around the roots.

If you're facing similar problems with your succulents, like Echeveria or Haworthia, or want to create your own well-suited soil mix, this guide will walk you through everything: soil traits, ingredients, DIY steps, and fertilization tips.

What Type of Soil Do Succulents Need?

Succulents thrive in soil that has dry, rocky conditions similar to those of their native habitats. That means a well-draining, porous mix with minimal organic content and excellent airflow around the roots.

The ideal succulent soil:

• Drains quickly after watering
• Feels gritty or coarse to the touch
• Contains mostly mineral matter like sand, perlite, or pumice
• Has a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ideally between 5.5 and 6.5 [Espace pour la vie]
• Stays loose, avoiding compaction over time

This kind of mix helps prevent root rot, encourages healthy root development, and makes watering far more forgiving.

For complete prep steps, see our succulent care guide, including soil mix tips.

Tip: Want to test your soil mix? Grab a handful, lightly moisten it, and squeeze. If it clumps, it’s holding too much water. If it falls apart, your succulents are likely to be much happier.

Why Regular Potting Soil Doesn’t Work for Succulents

Most potting soils are designed to retain moisture, which benefits tropical plants, but can spell trouble for succulents. These plants store water in their leaves and stems, so their roots are easily overwhelmed by soggy or compacted soil.

Regular mixes often include peat moss or composted bark, which stay damp for days. Indoors, where airflow and sunlight are limited, this moisture lingers even longer, raising the risk of root rot, fungus gnats, and mushy stems.

You might water only once a week and still see signs of distress if the soil doesn’t dry properly. That’s why even careful watering habits can fail if the mix isn’t right.

To ensure the water you’re using isn’t adding to the problem, read our guide on tap vs distilled water for indoor plants, which explains how water quality can affect soil drying and overall plant health.

Red flags your succulent soil is holding too much moisture:

• Surface stays damp for more than 2–3 days
• Leaves feel soft or translucent
• Mushy base or blackened stems
• Fungus gnats around the pot

Need a better blend? Try our indoor plant potting mix, designed for proper drainage and root health.

DIY Succulent Soil Recipe (With Measurements)

Making your own succulent soil is simple, and often better than relying on pre-mixed options. With just three ingredients, you can create a fast-draining blend that suits most indoor and outdoor succulents.

Basic Recipe: 3:2:1 Ratio

3 parts potting mix

Use a peat-free or low-peat potting mix as your base. Look for blends that are light and well-aerated. Avoid moisture-retaining products labeled as “for indoor plants” or “moisture control.”

See our jade plant soil recommendations for comparison with succulent mixes; jades prefer similarly well-draining, mineral-rich bases.

2 parts coarse sand

Choose horticultural sand or washed builder’s sand. Avoid play sand, it’s too fine and compacts easily. Sand improves drainage and adds grit to the mix.

For more on ideal drainage additives, check our Fishbone Cactus care guide, which also emphasizes perlite, pumice, and sand for airflow

1 part pumice or perlite

Both materials increase airflow and prevent compaction. Perlite is lightweight and bright white, while pumice is heavier and sinks in water. Either works well.

Example (Using Cups or Scoops)

• 3 cups potting mix
• 2 cups coarse sand
• 1 cup perlite or pumice

Mix thoroughly in a large container while dry. The final texture should feel loose, gritty, and fall apart easily when squeezed.

For a breathable blend that helps prevent rot and overwatering issues, try our succulent-friendly potting mix designed for indoor conditions.

Premade Succulent Soil Mixes You Can Buy

If you’d rather not mix your own, there are several reliable commercial options that work well for succulents. The best ones focus on drainage, texture, and low organic content, all key to keeping roots healthy and rot-free.

Here are three widely available options with their pros and cons:

Tip: If you go with a store-bought mix, consider adding a bit of extra pumice or sand for improved drainage, especially if you’re growing indoors or in humid conditions.

Choosing the Right Pot and Environment

Even the best soil mix can fail if the pot and growing environment aren’t suitable. Succulents need more than just well-draining soil; they also rely on airflow and proper containers to keep roots dry and healthy.

Pot Selection

• Drainage holes are a must. Without them, excess water collects at the bottom and creates a breeding ground for rot. If your favourite pot doesn’t have holes, drill one or use it as a decorative cover.
• Shallow pots dry faster. Most succulents have shallow root systems. A shallow container with good surface area helps moisture evaporate quickly.
• Terracotta > plastic. Terracotta absorbs moisture and allows better airflow. Plastic traps water and should only be used with faster-drying mixes.

For pot options that support healthy root airflow and drainage, browse our curated collection of succulent-friendly planters and pots.

Adjusting to Climate

• In humid or low-light indoor settings, increase mineral content (e.g., 70–80% sand/perlite) to avoid soggy soil.
• In hot, dry areas, a 60–65% mineral ratio usually works well and gives the plant a bit more water retention.
• Cold or rainy conditions? Water less frequently and consider elevating pots for airflow underneath.

For light-specific guidance, see our natural lighting guide for indoor plants.

Can You Fertilize Succulent Plants?

Succulents don’t need much fertilizer, but a small boost during the growing season can support healthier growth and stronger roots, especially in homemade soil that may lack nutrients over time.

When to Fertilize

• Ideal time: Early spring to early summer (active growth period)
• Avoid: Late autumn and winter (dormant period)
• New plants: Skip fertilising for the first 6 months while roots adjust

What Type of Fertilizer to Use

• Use a balanced or low-nitrogen fertiliser, such as 1-1-1 or 2-1-1 NPK
• Always dilute to half strength to avoid burning roots
• Liquid fertilisers are easier to control and apply evenly

Too much fertilizer can cause weak, leggy growth or root damage; it’s better to underfeed than overdo it.

For a deeper breakdown on choosing and using the right plant food, explore our indoor plant fertilizer buying guide for succulents and houseplants.

Conclusion

Choosing the right soil is one of the most important factors in keeping succulents healthy. Regular potting mixes often hold too much moisture, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Succulents thrive in gritty, fast-draining soil with low organic matter and plenty of airflow around the roots.

Whether you mix your own using the 3:2:1 recipe (potting soil, sand, perlite/pumice) or buy a ready-made option, make sure the texture stays loose and drains quickly. Pair it with the right pot, fertilise only during active growth, and adjust the mix slightly based on your climate.

A few small changes to your soil setup can make the difference between a struggling plant and a thriving one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pH is ideal for succulent soil?

Most succulents prefer soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, between 5.5 and 6.5. This helps with nutrient absorption and prevents mineral buildup over time.

Can I reuse old succulent soil?

Yes, but only if the soil still drains well and shows no signs of pests or rot. If it smells sour, clumps when wet, or has been used for more than a year, it’s best to refresh it with new sand and perlite or replace it entirely.

What’s the best stone for top-dressing succulent pots?

Granite chips, crushed quartz, or natural pebbles work well. They prevent soil splash, keep the crown dry, and give your pot a clean finish.

Do succulents need different soil indoors vs outdoors?

Not necessarily, but indoor soil should drain faster since it dries more slowly. You can adjust by increasing the mineral content (perlite or sand) to prevent moisture buildup in low-airflow areas.