How To Mix Your Own Succulent Soil: A comprehensive guide to succulent soil.

Here's how we mix our succulent and echeveria soil here at the greenhouse!

We incorporate a blend of mostly inorganic elements to ensure optimal drainage which is especially crucial during our hot and humid east coast summers. Your local environment matters too, so adjust as needed.

Here's what we use and why!

~20% Coco Peat/Peat: Lightweight and breathable, low in nutrients

~25% Perlite: Boosts air permeability and drainage

~25% Calcined Clay: Enhances drainage, slightly acidic

~20% Zeolite: Improves drainage, absorbs impurities

~10% Volcanic Rock: Enhances air permeability, adds trace elements

The key to good succulent soil lies in the correct ratio of organic to inorganic material and understanding how this effects how our succulents look and grow. It's important we first understand why the composition of our soil is so essential to our plants growth and how it can affect them.

Anthocyanins and their relationship with Organic material:

Anthocyanins are pigments responsible for the red, purple, and blue hues in plant tissues. In Echeveria, these pigments contribute to the striking coloration that makes them stand out. To preserve and enhance these vibrant tones, it's essential to avoid the use of nitrogen heavy soil or fertilizers that promote excessive chlorophyll production. Nitrogen rich soil may expedite growth but with hinder the development of anthocyanins, and weaken the cell tissue, resulting in greener and less visually appealing succulents. Therefore its essential we use organic and inorganic componetns that are low in nitrogen. 

Promoting Efficient Water Removal:

Echeveria thrive in well-draining soil to prevent excess water retention. A high proportion of granular soil in the mix ensures efficient water drainage, preventing prolonged moisture exposure that could cause undesirable changes in color, leaf structure, or even rot. The soil should remain highly permeable to air, with peat soil making up no more than 30% of the mix. This allows for quick water loss, helping to control the shape of the succulent’s leaves. Excess water, encourages chlorophyll production and inhibits the creation of anthocyanins, which are essential for the vibrant colors of succulents.

Additional Tips:

• Regularly monitor soil moisture levels to prevent overwatering.
• Adjust the soil mix proportions based on environmental conditions and the specific needs of your succulents.
• Repot your echeveria every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide essential nutrients.