Can You Plant Succulents in Normal Potting Soil?

As succulents have gained popularity over the years, many people are wondering if they can grow succulents in normal potting soil. It’s a good question because succulents have specific growing requirements that differ from other houseplants. So, can you plant succulents in normal potting soil? The answer is both yes and no.

The Pros of Planting Succulents in Normal Potting Soil

One of the benefits of using a normal potting soil for succulents is its availability. You can easily find standard potting soil at any nursery or garden center. Additionally, it’s cost-effective and readily available. Another pro is that normal potting soil retains moisture relatively well, which is good for succulents that can sometimes become too dry.

The Cons of Planting Succulents in Normal Potting Soil

While there are benefits to planting succulents in normal potting soil, there are also some drawbacks. Standard potting soil typically contains high levels of peat moss, which can retain moisture for too long. Succulents need to be able to dry out entirely between watering to prevent root rot, so peat moss can be detrimental to your succulent’s growth. Additionally, normal potting soil doesn’t contain enough sand and perlite, which succulents need to help with water drainage and ventilation.

How to Plant Succulents in Normal Potting Soil

If you decide to plant succulents in normal potting soil, it’s essential to make some modifications to ensure the soil doesn’t retain too much moisture. Mixing sand, perlite, or pumice into the potting soil at a ratio of 1:1 can create a well-draining soil mixture, perfect for succulents. Additionally, you should only water the succulent when the soil is entirely dry to the touch, and ensure it’s in a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and causing root rot.

The Bottom Line

While you can plant succulents in normal potting soil, it’s not the ideal option for optimal growth. The soil mixture that you use is critical to the survival of your succulent, and while you can modify normal potting soil to suit your plant's needs, it’s better to use a soil mix that’s specifically designed for succulents. So, while it may seem convenient to use what you have on hand, investing in a well-draining and correctly formulated soil mix will give your succulent the best chance for success.