DIY Cactus Soil Recipe
Cactus Soil Mix Recipe Menu
Quickly navigate this page to find any topic without getting a sore finger
Why Make Your Own Cactus Soil Mix
Creating your own cactus soil mix offers several advantages over purchasing commercial premixed options. One of the primary benefits is cost-effectiveness. While the initial investment in individual ingredients might seem higher, the ability to make large batches tailored to your needs can save money in the long run. This is especially true if you have a large collection of cacti or plan to expand your collection, as you can make more soil for less money compared to repeatedly buying small bags of commercial mix.
Another significant advantage is the control over the quality and cleanliness of the soil. Commercial premixed soils can sometimes harbour pest eggs, weed seeds, and other unwanted guests. By making your own cactus soil mix, you can ensure that all the components are clean and free from these potential threats.
DIY Soil vs Commercial Soil Mixes
Making your own cactus soil offers significant benefits over buying shop-bought premixed options. Making your own DIY cactus soil mix allows you to tailor the mix to meet the specific needs of your cacti, ensuring optimal drainage, aeration, and nutrient balance. Shop bought soils often take a one-size-fits all approach, which isn't ideal for different species. The customization that making your own cactus soil offers leads to healthier, more vigorous plants. A DIY soil approach provides greater control and better outcomes for your cactus' care.
How To Sterilize Soil To Kill Pests
Sterilizing individual soil ingredients can help stop pests and diseases being introduced to your plants, especially if you're not sure how trustworthy the source is.
How To Sterilize Soil: To sterilize Cactus soil ingredients, spread each substrate on a baking sheet. Put the trays of substrate into an oven at 82 °C (180 °F) for 30 minutes. This process effectively kills any harmful organisms without degrading the soil quality. Ensure the soil cools completely before creating your soil mix.
Ingredients You Can't Sterilize: When it comes to sterilizing Cactus soil ingredients, there are a few that you should avoid subjecting to heat treatment:
Perlite: This volcanic glass can expand and even release harmful particles if heated, which can be dangerous.
Coco Coir: While it's generally safe to use, it may dry out excessively when heated and lose some of its moisture-retaining properties.
Compost: Sterilizing organic matter such as compost is largely okay, but always ensure any soil component that shouldn't be heated, like perlite, is kept separate during the sterilization process.
Worm Castings: You can sterilize castings if you want, but heat will kill the beneficial organisms within the worm castings, which plants love. Part of why we use worm casting sis because of the high microbial activity, sterilizing it kills the organisms and prevents the castings from providing those additional benefits to the plant.
How To Make a Cactus Soil Mix
Cactus Soil Recipe Ingredients:
1 litre of sand
1 litre of perlite
1 litre of potting soil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Gather Your Cactus Soil Mix Ingredients
Before you start mixing, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. If you're unsure about the source of your soil components, you can sterilize the ingredients to ensure that there are no pest eggs or unwanted guests. Here's a brief overview of each component:
Sand: Provides excellent drainage and prevents soil compaction.
Perlite: A lightweight volcanic rock that improves soil aeration and drainage.
Potting Soil: The base of the mix, providing essential nutrients.
Pumice or Gravel: Adds structure and enhances drainage, preventing water retention.
Measure the Cactus Soil Mix Ingredients
Measure out 1 litre of each ingredient. If you need a larger batch, simply scale up the measurements accordingly (e.g., 2 litres of each ingredient for a larger batch).
Combine the Cactus Soil Mix Ingredients
In a large container or mixing tub, combine the measured sand, perlite, potting soil, and pumice or gravel. Ensure you mix them thoroughly to create a uniform blend. It's important to achieve an even distribution of all components to ensure consistent soil quality.
Check and Adjust the Soil Recipe pH Level
Cacti generally prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. If you've closely followed our recipe and your ingredients are from reputable sources, your pH should be perfect for cacti. If you're uncertain, use a pH meter to test your soil mix. Where adjustments are required, adjust the pH by adding agricultural lime to raise the pH or sulphur to lower it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amounts of each pH amendment.
Moisten the Cactus Soil Mix
Lightly moisten the soil mix with water. The goal is to achieve a damp consistency without making the soil soggy. Proper moisture helps the components bond together and prepares the soil for planting. When repotting high-value plants, we love to add a seaweed biofertilizer to help reduce transplant stress.
Store or Use the Cactus Soil Mix
If you're not using the soil mix immediately, store it in a sealed container to keep it fresh and ready for future use. When you're ready to plant, fill your pots with the DIY cactus soil mix, and plant your cacti as usual!
Additional Tips:
Sterilize Ingredients: To avoid introducing pests or pathogens, you can sterilize ingredients.
Customize for Species: You can adjust the proportions or add other components based on the specific needs of different cactus species. For example, adding more sand for species that prefer very well-draining soil.
Monitor and Adjust: Keep an eye on your plants and the soil's performance over time. Make adjustments to the mix as needed to suit your specific growing conditions and plant responses. If your soil is staying too dry, add more potting soil. If your soil is staying too wet, try adding more perlite or sand.
Why Use An Advanced DIY Soil Mix Recipe
Opting for an advanced cactus soil recipe over a basic mix brings numerous advantages that cater specifically to the unique needs of cacti. An advanced mix ensures enhanced drainage and aeration due to its higher proportion of components like perlite, pumice, and lava rock. These materials prevent water retention and promote healthy root development, which is crucial for preventing root rot—a common issue in cacti grown in poorly draining soils. The improved air circulation around the roots also supports better nutrient uptake and overall plant health.
Furthermore, an advanced cactus soil mix includes coco coir, which balances moisture retention without waterlogging the soil. This is particularly important for cacti, which require just the right amount of moisture to thrive. The addition of worm castings enriches the soil with essential nutrients, promoting robust growth and helping to maintain a healthy root system. This nutrient-rich environment is often lacking in basic soil mixes, making the advanced recipe a more effective choice for sustaining long-term plant health.
How To Make an Advanced Cactus Soil Mix
Advanced Cactus Soil Recipe Ingredients:
4 litres of sand
4 litres of perlite
2 litres of coco coir
1 litre of worm castings
Optional: 1 litre of activated charcoal, 1 litre of gravel, and 1 litre of unscented zeolite
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Gather Your Soil Mix Ingredients
Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. Here's a brief overview of each component:
Coarse Sand: Provides excellent drainage and prevents soil compaction.
Perlite: Enhances aeration and drainage.
Pumice or Lava Rock: Adds structure and improves drainage.
Coco Coir: Retains moisture without waterlogging, providing a balance for the mix.
Worm Castings: Rich in nutrients, promoting healthy plant growth.
Activated Charcoal (optional): Purifies soil by absorbing toxins, helping to prevent root rot.
Gravel (optional): Adds extra drainage and aeration.
Unscented Zeolite (optional): Aids in moisture retention and nutrient absorption.
Measure the Soil Mix Ingredients
Measure out 4 litres of coarse sand, 4 litres of perlite, 4 litres of pumice or lava rock, 2 litres of coco coir, and 1 litre of worm castings. If using the optional ingredients, measure 1 litre of each.
Combine the Soil Mix Ingredients
In a large container or mixing tub, combine the measured ingredients. Ensure you mix them thoroughly to create a uniform blend. Achieving an even distribution of all components is essential for consistent soil quality.
Check and Adjust the Soil Recipe pH Level
Cacti generally prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Use a pH meter to test your soil mix. Adjust the pH by adding agricultural lime to raise it or sulphur to lower it, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amounts.
Moisten the Soil Mix
Lightly moisten the soil mix with water. Aim for a damp consistency without making the soil soggy. Proper moisture helps the components bond together and prepares the soil for planting. Adding a seaweed biofertilizer when repotting can help reduce transplant stress for high-value plants.
Store or Use the Mix
If not using the soil mix immediately, store it in a sealed container to keep it fresh. When ready, fill your pots with the DIY cactus soil mix and plant your cacti.
Additional Tips:
Sterilize Ingredients: To prevent introducing pests or pathogens, consider sterilizing your ingredients.
Customize for Species: Adjust the proportions or add other components based on the specific needs of different cactus species. For example, adding more sand for species that prefer very well-draining soil.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly check your plants and the soil's performance. Adjust the mix as needed to suit your specific growing conditions and plant responses. If the soil stays too dry, add more coco coir. If it stays too wet, add more perlite or sand.
Tailoring Your Cactus Soil To Each Species
Creating a tailored soil mix for each cactus species can significantly enhance their growth and overall health. Cactus soil can also be used for other species, such as Agave, Aloe, and succulents. Here's a detailed guide on how to adjust the soil mix to meet the specific needs of various types of cacti:
Desert Cacti (e.g., Saguaro, Barrel Cactus)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Extremely well-draining and lean soil. Tailored Mix:
Increase the proportion of coarse sand and gravel to enhance drainage.
Add extra perlite or pumice to further improve aeration.
Use minimal organic matter (e.g., just a small amount of worm castings or compost) to mimic their nutrient-poor natural environment.
Epiphytic Cacti (e.g., Christmas Cactus, Orchid Cactus)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Moisture-retentive yet well-draining. Tailored Mix:
Incorporate more coco coir and sphagnum moss to retain moisture.
Add fine orchid bark to provide structure and drainage.
Include some organic matter like compost or worm castings for nutrients.
Ensure the mix is loose and airy to replicate their natural habitat on trees.
Tropical Cacti (e.g., Fishbone Cactus, Ric Rac Cactus)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Rich, well-draining soil with good moisture retention. Tailored Mix:
Use a higher proportion of organic matter like compost or worm castings to provide nutrients.
Add coco coir and sphagnum moss to retain moisture.
Include perlite or pumice to improve drainage and aeration.
Consider adding activated charcoal to purify the soil and prevent root rot.
Mountain Cacti (e.g., Beehive Cactus, Pincushion Cactus)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with some moisture retention. Tailored Mix:
Balance the mix with equal parts coarse sand, perlite, and coco coir.
Add some gravel for additional drainage and aeration.
Include a small amount of compost or worm castings to provide essential nutrients.
Climbing or Hanging Cacti (e.g., Rhipsalis, Aporocactus)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Light, airy, and well-draining. Tailored Mix:
Use more orchid bark and perlite to keep the soil light and airy.
Incorporate coco coir for moisture retention.
Add a small amount of organic matter like compost for nutrients.
Ensure the mix is loose to allow for good root development.
Agave americana (Century Plant & Most Agave Species)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with minimal organic content. Tailored Mix:
Increase the proportion of coarse sand and gravel to enhance drainage.
Add extra perlite or pumice to improve aeration.
Use minimal organic matter to mimic their natural, nutrient-poor environment.
Agave attenuata (Foxtail Agave)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining, but slightly more moisture-retentive than other agaves. Tailored Mix:
Mix in more coco coir to retain moisture without waterlogging.
Add perlite and pumice for enhanced drainage.
Include a small amount of compost or worm castings for nutrients.
Agave parryi (Parry's Agave)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Extremely well-draining and lean soil. Tailored Mix:
Increase the amount of coarse sand and gravel for maximum drainage.
Add additional perlite or pumice to improve soil structure and aeration.
Use very minimal organic matter to replicate their natural conditions.
Aloe vera (Suitable For Most Aloe Species)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with a balance of moisture retention and aeration. Tailored Mix:
Use a combination of coarse sand and perlite to ensure good drainage.
Add pumice to enhance moisture retention without waterlogging.
Mix in pine bark fines for structure and drainage.
Maintain soil pH between 6.5 and 6.8 with slightly acidic soil adjustments.
Aloe aristata (Lace Aloe)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining and slightly moisture-retentive soil. Tailored Mix:
Incorporate more coco coir for moisture retention.
Add perlite and gravel for drainage and aeration.
Include a small amount of organic matter like compost for nutrients.
Ensure a slightly acidic soil environment.
Aloe brevifolia (Short-leaved Aloe)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with moderate organic content. Tailored Mix:
Increase the proportion of coarse sand and perlite for drainage.
Add pumice to enhance aeration and moisture retention.
Mix in a moderate amount of compost or worm castings for nutrients.
Adjust pH to slightly acidic to neutral levels.
Echeveria
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with moderate organic content. Tailored Mix:
Incorporate more perlite and coarse sand to improve drainage.
Add a small amount of compost or worm castings for nutrients.
Use some coco coir for moisture retention.
Maintain a neutral pH.
Haworthia
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining and slightly moisture-retentive soil. Tailored Mix:
Include more perlite and pumice for better aeration.
Mix in coco coir to help with moisture retention.
Add a small amount of organic matter like compost or worm castings.
Ensure a slightly acidic soil environment.
Sedum
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining and lean soil. Tailored Mix:
Increase the proportion of coarse sand and gravel for excellent drainage.
Add extra perlite to improve aeration.
Use minimal organic matter to mimic their nutrient-poor environment.
Maintain a neutral pH.
Crassula (e.g., Jade Plant)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with moderate moisture retention. Tailored Mix:
Use more coarse sand and perlite to enhance drainage.
Add pumice to retain some moisture without waterlogging.
Incorporate a small amount of compost for nutrients.
Ensure a neutral pH.
Kalanchoe
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Well-draining soil with balanced moisture retention. Tailored Mix:
Mix in more perlite and coarse sand for better drainage.
Add coco coir to help retain moisture.
Include a small amount of compost or worm castings for nutrients.
Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)
Preferred Soil Characteristics: Extremely well-draining and lean soil. Tailored Mix:
Increase the proportion of coarse sand and gravel for maximum drainage.
Add extra perlite or pumice to improve soil structure and aeration.
Use minimal organic matter to mimic their nutrient-poor environment.
By tailoring your cactus soil mix to the specific needs of each species, you create an environment that promotes healthy growth and vitality. This personalized approach ensures your cacti thrive, showcasing their unique beauty and resilience.
DIY Cactus Soil Recipe Summary
This Cactus soil mix guide has covered how creating your own cactus soil mix offers numerous advantages over commercial premixed options, including cost-effectiveness, cleanliness, and the ability to tailor the mix to your plants' specific needs.
Tailoring the soil mix for specific species, such as desert cacti, epiphytic cacti, tropical cacti, mountain cacti, and climbing or hanging cacti, involves adjusting the proportions of components like sand, perlite, coco coir, and pumice to replicate their natural habitats. This personalized approach promotes healthier root development, better nutrient uptake, and overall plant vitality.
In summary, making your own cactus soil mix, whether basic or advanced, allows you to control the quality, meet the specific needs of your cacti, and create an environment that supports their health and growth.
Edited & Fact Checked By: The Houseplant Shop
Article Published: 26th November 2024
About The Houseplant Shop:
Independent Houseplant Nursery
Horticultural Specialists
Managing Over 250 Houseplant Species Onsite
Over 15 Years Of Experience With Horticulture
As head of horticulture, Sarah manages the care and propagation of over 250 plant species at a commercial houseplant nursery. With over 15 years of experience in horticulture, specializing in houseplants, Sarah has extensive expertise in plant biology, soil science, and integrated pest management. She continually reviews and integrates the latest research into her plant care guides. Dedicated to educating others, Sarah has spent years diagnosing houseplant care issues and sharing her real-world experience. Her commitment to scientific accuracy and helping people diagnose plant health issues has established her as a trusted authority and expert in the field.
The Houseplant Shop is a dedicated houseplant nursery, growing all of their own stock from their botanical library of over 250 houseplant species. The nursery staff are horticultural experts who have dedicated their lives to cultivating and nurturing over 250 different species of houseplants, focusing on Aroids, tropical plants, and NOID collectables. All their plants are grown in house in Britain to be more environmentally friendly. The nursery is proud to have been featured by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) as a 100% peat free nursery.
Recommended Further Reading:
People also looked at: Soil Recipes By Houseplant Species, Cactus Soil Recipe, Aroid Soil Recipe, Watering, and Fertilizer.
How We Reviewed This Article:
Our horticultural experts continually monitor the houseplant space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. We are committed to providing current and reliable information. If you have some information that you think would be helpful in this article, we'd love to hear from you. Our team works hard to revise articles for factual accuracy, and we regularly update our pages with new information, techniques, tips, images, trade secrets, and real world experience from the team here at the houseplant nursery. You can find a list of the article updates below.
Written By: Sarah Brooks, Head of Horticulture
Article Received: 24th November 2024
Copyright: The Houseplant Shop (https://thehouseplant.shop)
The use, distribution, or reproduction is permitted, provided the original copyright owner is credited and that the original publication on this website is cited with a direct link to the article, only with these terms. Any other use is not permitted.
List of Article Updates:
20th December 2024: Minor UI updates
Author Bio:
Author: Sarah Brooks,
Head of Horticulture at The Houseplant Shop
