You might be wondering what cactus soil is and how it differs from a regular potting mix. You might even be considering whether cactus soil is really necessary to grow happy, healthy cacti indoors. Here’s the lowdown on why cactus soil rocks (pun intended!) and why you should be using it for all of your cacti.
What is Cactus Soil?
Cactus soil, or cactus mix as it is sometimes referred to, is a blend of mainly inorganic materials such as sand, gravel, pumice, and/or perlite that is ideal for growing cacti and succulents thanks to its superior drainage.
Why is Cactus Soil Beneficial?
Cactus soil is beneficial for growing cacti because it mimics the native environment in which these desert plants are accustomed to growing. Cacti have shallow, delicate root systems that will not thrive in potting mediums that are overly dense. Cacti are also drought-tolerant and easily susceptible to root rot, meaning they won’t grow well in soil that is high in organic matter and holds excess moisture. Cactus soil mixes address all of these unique needs and are formulated specifically to help cacti do well when grown indoors. Simply put, regular potting soil is not suitable to provide these desert dwellers with the conditions they need to thrive.
Differences Between Cactus Soil and Regular Potting Mix
There are several key differences between cactus soil and regular potting soil or potting mix.
Composition
Regular potting mixes are high in organic matter such as peat moss, compost, and coco coir because these mediums are ideal for most foliage plants. However, cacti don’t require the same levels of organic matter as most other plants do, so cactus soil is composed of mainly inorganic materials such as perlite, pumice, grit, gravel, and/or sand.
Moisture Retention
One of the biggest differentiators between cactus soil and regular potting mix is its moisture retention. Although regular potting mix usually drains well, the organic materials in the soil soak up and retain moisture. Cactus soil does not retain moisture because it is primarily made up of inorganic materials, which also helps to prevent root rot.
Aeration
Cacti have delicate roots that grow best with proper air circulation in the potting medium. Cacti soil is less dense than a regular potting mix, which improves aeration and allows the cacti roots to thrive.
Drainage
In the desert, cacti experience long periods of drought accompanied by short bursts of moisture. To mimic this environment, cacti need a potting medium that drains well and dries quickly. Cactus soil drains quickly but retains enough moisture to allow the roots to absorb what they need first. Regular potting mixes are not designed to drain as quickly.
Nutrient Content
Regular potting soil is rich and is often amended with additional fertilizers to help boost plant growth. Cacti are not accustomed to rich soils and do best in nutrient-poor mediums.
How to Make Your Own Cactus Soil
Purchasing a pre-made cactus soil ensures that it contains everything the cactus needs without much work on your part. Pre-made cactus soil contains the right ratio of inorganic materials (perlite, pumice, sand, and gravel) as well as a small amount of organic material such as peat moss or coco coir. However, making your own cactus soil mix is also an option and it is easy to do! Mix together three parts potting soil, three parts coarse sand or gravel, and two parts perlite or pumice. Don’t use a potting soil mix that contains fertilizers because the fertilizer can burn cacti roots and cause leggy growth.
