DIY Succulent Soil Mix (Fast Draining + Beginner Friendly)
If your succulents keep struggling, the problem usually isn’t the plant… it’s the soil.
Most store bought “potting soil” holds too much moisture for succulents. Succulents need soil that drains quickly so their roots can breathe and don’t stay wet for too long (that’s how root rot happens).
So today I’m sharing our simple, beginner friendly DIY succulent soil mix you can make at home with easy to find ingredients.
Why fast draining soil matters for succulents
Succulents store water in their leaves, so they’re built to handle dry conditions. What they don’t handle well is sitting in damp soil.
If soil stays wet too long, the roots don’t get enough airflow and start to break down. That’s why fast draining soil is one of the biggest non-negotiables for healthy succulents.
Fast-draining soil helps:
• prevent root rot
• encourage healthy root growth
• reduce fungus gnats
• keep plants from getting mushy or dropping leaves
The DIY soil recipe (Succly at-home mix)
This is the mix we recommend for a simple, accessible at-home setup:
✅ 60% fast-draining cactus soil- 4 scoops
✅ 14% coco coir- 2 scoops
✅ 30% perlite- 1 scoop
This combination creates the perfect balance: fast drainage + airflow, while still holding just enough moisture for the plant to absorb.
What each ingredient does
1) Cactus soil
This is your base. It provides structure and nutrients, but on its own it can still hold more moisture than succulents prefer depending on the brand.
2) Coco coir
Coco coir helps hold onto a small amount of moisture so water doesn’t drain straight through immediately. It also keeps the mix light and fluffy without staying soggy like many peat heavy soils can.
3) Perlite
Perlite is the lightweight white “rocks” that make the soil airy. It improves drainage and helps prevent compaction so roots can breathe.
Step-by-step: how to mix it
1. Grab a bin or large bowl for mixing
2. Add 4 parts cactus soil
3. Add 1 part coco coir
4. Add 2 part perlite
5. Mix until everything is evenly combined
Your finished soil should look chunky and fluffy, not dense and heavy.
No coco coir? Here are easy substitutes
Option 1 (easiest):
✅ 50% cactus soil + 50% perlite
Option 2:
✅ Swap it with something similar like orchid bark/orchid mix
Option 3:
✅ If you only have regular potting soil:
50% potting soil + 50% perlite
(Perlite is the key to keeping it fast draining.)
My #1 tip when repotting
Even the best soil mix won’t help if your pot doesn’t drain.
Always use a pot with a drainage hole and avoid letting water sit in a tray underneath your plant for long periods.
Watch the video: DIY succulent soil mix
Here’s the full step-by-step video where I mix it and show you the texture you’re aiming for:
If you’ve been struggling with leaf drop, mushy succulents, or plants that never seem to perk up, switching to a fast draining soil mix can make a huge difference.
This recipe is simple, affordable, and beginner friendly, and it’s one of the easiest ways to get healthier succulents fast.
If you try it, tag us on social so we can see your repotting setup!
💛 @Succlyco
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