I've been experimenting with my succulent soil mix and noticed that perlite seems to be the go-to recommendation. After my initial attempt with just cactus soil didn't yield great results, I added a lot of perlite, but I'm starting to wonder if I used too much. I know some water retention is necessary, but I can't help but feel I might have just created the same issues for my plants. On top of that, I've got some sand coming tomorrow to create a mix. Can anyone explain why perlite is preferred over grit or sand, even though it retains water? I'm especially trying to get my jade plants to thrive, as they've been pretty difficult for me to care for, and I've lost one already!
3 Answers
Perlite is often the first choice since it’s widely available at most garden stores. It’s not just about water retention though; the main benefit is that it creates air pockets in the soil, promoting good drainage. If you’re using horticultural sand, that’s also a solid choice! People often go for what's easy to get and cost-effective, which is why they might lean towards perlite over other options—like pumice, which can be trickier to find.
Honestly, perlite is recommended mainly because it's affordable and easy to find. While it does help with aeration and drainage, I agree that pumice and crushed granite can perform better for plant health. Many just stick with perlite for its convenience, but it might not always be the best choice for every type of succulent out there.
For sure! I’ve found that using chicken grit, which is basically crushed granite, is super effective too. Just ensure it's clean before using!
I’ve found a mix of grit, sand, perlite, and a bit of commercial succulent potting mix works wonders. The ratio can vary based on your plants' water needs. Perlite is popular because it’s easily accessible and does a great job of improving drainage rather than retention. Some folks also swear by pumice and coarse sand, but perlite is just the budget-friendly option. Saving money while still giving your plants a good shot is always a win!
Exactly! Grit should really be tailored to your area and budget. Though perlite is common, I’d definitely consider mixing in some crushed pumice if you can find it.