Learn how to make your own cactus and succulent potting soil. This mix will help you grow healthy, vibrant succulents and cactus.
#healthyhouseplants #succulentsoil #cactusmix #diyplantcare #indoorplanting
Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you all about gardening in The Great Indoors! If you’d like to support our show, please use our Amazon affiliate link below.
Today, I’m going to show you how to make your own cactus and succulent potting mix for houseplants. This recipe was requested by Jessica Leese after she watched my video on making general-purpose potting soil. I’ve linked that video—and any others I mention—below.
Let’s talk about this mix! It’s specifically for cacti and succulents, not general houseplants. My jade plant here is ready to be repotted. It’s been growing in a peat pot, which is a great way to root cuttings, but it’s time to move it into a proper pot.
Here’s what you’ll need for the mix:
2 cups of pumice: The main drainage component, ensuring quick water flow.
1 cup of horticultural sand: Do not use playground or beach sand. Horticultural sand is washed and safe for plants. It drains and holds a little moisture.
2 cups of compost or worm compost: Provides essential macro- and micronutrients.
2 tablespoons of agricultural lime: Helps adjust pH to neutral or slightly alkaline—ideal for succulents.
1/4 cup of horticultural charcoal: Helps with odor control and keeps the soil fresh.
Mix everything thoroughly. The result is a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix. Many store-bought cactus soils lack nutrients, so this blend gives you the best of both worlds—excellent drainage and healthy nutrition.
This recipe can be halved, doubled, or tripled depending on your needs. It’s perfect for a medium pot or a couple of small ones. I’m excited to repot this jade plant in the fresh mix.
Thanks for joining me! Let me know in the comments what indoor gardening tutorials you’d like to see next. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and hit the bell to get notified when we post new videos.
Cactus and Succulent Potting Mix FAQ
Why should I use a special mix for cacti and succulents?
Cacti and succulents need a fast-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A specialized mix helps mimic their native arid environments.
What are the key ingredients in a homemade cactus and succulent mix?
The mix includes 2 cups of pumice, 1 cup of horticultural sand, 2 cups of compost or worm compost, 2 tablespoons of lime, and 1/4 cup of charcoal.
Can I use regular sand from the playground or beach?
No. Always use horticultural sand, as playground and beach sand may contain salts or contaminants harmful to plants.
Why is lime added to the mix?
Agricultural lime balances the soil pH to neutral or slightly alkaline, which many succulents prefer for optimal growth.
How much potting mix does this recipe make?
This recipe yields enough for a medium-sized pot or a couple of smaller pots. You can easily scale it up or down as needed.
Patreon: 
/ healthyhouseplants
One-time donation: https://ko-fi.com/healthyhouseplants
Sign up for my monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/g1PCSH
My Perfect pumice: https://healthyhouseplants.storenvy.c…
My Perfect Pumice (2 bags): https://healthyhouseplants.storenvy.c…
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn commissions for purchases made through the links below.
Worm compost: https://amzn.to/3Mzr1r0
Dolomite lime: https://amzn.to/3VuU9Uw
Horticultural sand: https://amzn.to/47Hblg2
Charcoal for plants: https://amzn.to/3EiEf9d