Comparison: Best Potting Soil For Cacti And Succulents (Updated | Nov 11th)

The most important traits are fast drainage, high aeration, and a low organic matter content that mimics desert conditions. Look for mixes that contain perlite, pumice, sand, or grit, and avoid heavy, water‑retentive soils. Nutrient additives are a bonus, but they should not compromise the soil’s ability to dry out quickly.

The Cactus, Palm & Citrus Mix is a two‑bag bundle formulated for larger containers and includes added plant food for palms and citrus, while the Succulent Mix comes in a single 4‑qt bag focused on indoor succulents with a peat‑based blend. Both provide good drainage, but the former has a slightly richer nutrient profile, making it better for fast‑growing palms or citrus seedlings. If you only need a lightweight mix for small indoor succulents, the Succulent Mix is more economical.

Organic blends such as Back to the Roots use natural ingredients like aged bark, perlite, and horticultural sand, which can improve soil structure and support beneficial microbes. Synthetic mixes often contain added fertilizers that give an immediate nutrient boost but may retain more moisture. For most cactus and succulent growers, the organic option provides excellent drainage while promoting a healthier root environment over the long term.

The Omitgoter Succulent & Cactus Soil Mix and the Premium Succulent Soil Mix (with pumice and perlite) both rank highest for drainage due to their high proportion of coarse, porous materials. They allow excess water to flow freely, reducing the risk of root rot. If you prefer a ready‑to‑use product, the Omitgoter’s 1‑qt pouch is a convenient choice.

Drainage is the primary concern for cacti and succulents because over‑watering is the most common cause of failure. Nutrients are still valuable, especially for flowering or fruit‑bearing varieties, but they should be delivered in a balanced, slow‑release form that doesn’t hold excess moisture. A mix that combines excellent drainage with a modest nutrient package, like the Cactus and Succulent Organic Potting Soil, offers the best of both worlds.

For a collection of a few 8‑inch pots, a 4‑quart bag (such as Miracle‑Gro Succulent Mix or Harris Premium Soil) provides enough material without excess waste. If you plan to repot larger containers or have an outdoor garden, the two‑bag 8‑qt bundle of Miracle‑Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Mix offers better value per quart. Buying in bulk saves money but requires proper storage to keep the mix dry.

Yes, most of the listed mixes are formulated for both indoor and outdoor use, provided the containers have adequate drainage holes. Outdoor environments may experience more rain, so a soil with extra grit or sand, like the LGM Cactus & Succulent Palm & Citrus Mix, can help prevent waterlogging. Just ensure you adjust watering frequency based on climate conditions.

Beneficial microbes and worm castings improve soil biology, helping roots absorb nutrients more efficiently and increasing resistance to disease. These living components also aid in breaking down organic matter, creating a more stable pH for cacti and succulents. While not essential, the microbial boost can lead to faster, more vigorous growth compared to sterile mixes.