Last Updated on November 22, 2022 by Cristina
Can I use orchid soil for succulents? Read this article and find out if it is preferable to use a specific type of soil for growing these unique plants.
Succulents are known for being attractive, low-maintenance houseplants, suitable for owners of all skill levels, even those who frequently kill their plants. However, did you know that if you don’t provide the perfect conditions for your succulents, they are among the easiest plants to kill?
Namely, most of these plants originate from desert conditions, which are quite different from our standard home environment, and that is exactly why it is necessary to adapt care to their specific requirements.
One of the most common mistakes people make, mostly out of ignorance, is related to soil selection. We often hear different questions on this topic, and recently we received a very interesting one: “can I use orchid soil for succulents?” Therefore, we have no choice but to help our readers in need. So, let’s get down to the point.
What Kind Of Soil Should Be Used For Succulents As Houseplants?
All soil mixtures contain both organic and mineral matter. Since not only experienced plant parents come here, let’s give our newbies a quick guide to distinguishing these two substances.
Organic matter (humus and decaying plant tissue) is characterized in that it helps retain moisture in the soil and deliver nutrients to the plant, while on the other hand, mineral matter (clay, silt, and sand) promotes proper drainage.
Furthermore, as for the plants that are the main actors of this blog, they are known to be drought tolerant and that’s why they don’t demand constant moisture. Experts and experienced gardeners agree that you should always choose porous and well-draining soils with a lower percentage of organic matter.
When all this is taken into account, it is easy to come to the conclusion that the ideal soil is very different from the traditional indoor soil mixes that most other plants require in order to thrive. Don’t hesitate to choose a loose, grainy soil mixture with plenty of sand and perlite or even pumice.
Now we’re going to say a few words about the three main components of any succulent soil mix, which are, as you might guess, sand, potting soil, and perlite or pumice.
As for the ratio itself, it depends on both the plant’s requirements and your own preferences, but you won’t go wrong if you opt for two parts sand, two parts potting soil, and one part perlite or pumice to begin with.
This is especially true for newcomers who encounter these plants for the first time. Don’t be too scared as over time you should be able to understand the needs of your plant, as well as experiment with this ratio as desired.
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Can You Use Any Soil For Succulents?
It’s a secret that succulents require a particular type of soil in order to grow and thrive. From this sentence, you can conclude that it isn’t desirable to use any soil or potting mix that comes to hand first.
In short, the soil should be light, airy, and with good drainage so that succulents don’t rot and turn black. It is also necessary to make sure that the soil does not retain too much or too little water so that it never actually dries out completely.
The thing is that most potting mix that suits other plants tends to be heavy and dense and/or doesn’t allow for enough airflow, which in most cases causes the roots to suffocate over time. Therefore, avoid using an unsuitable type of soil. Invest in the quality that is adapted to the requirements of these unique plants, believe us, all your efforts will pay off quickly.
WONDER SOIL | Organic Cactus & Succulent Soil (12 Quarts). Fast Draining Ready to Plant
Speaking of which, can I use orchid soil for succulents? Find out the answer below.
Question Of The Day: Can I Use Orchid Soil For Succulents?
As you can already guess, most succulents are native to arid areas where the soil can be very sandy or have a lot of gravel, which is why it is extremely important to choose one that drains well and is on the gritty side.
So, can I use orchid soil for succulents? The answer is yes and no at the same time. We know it may sound funny, but the fact is that not all types of succulents thrive in orchid soil, most of them are simply not a perfect match.
In short, most tropical succulents, such as Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’, Aloe ciliaris, and Cotyledon orbiculata will more than successfully grow and develop in this characteristic type of soil. More details can be found below.
Is Orchid Mix Good For Succulents?
It is very important to keep in mind that this type of soil is made up of bark as well as much other organic matter that is known for exposing the roots to air. This is most suitable for orchids themselves because they simply need air to their roots in order to thrive, but succulents, on the other hand, don’t like their roots to be exposed.
There are two main reasons why orchid soil is not the best option for succulents:
- Bark decomposition: Orchid mix turns into compost over time.
- Stability: There are huge air spaces between the particles that can make the establishment of succulent roots difficult.
Can You Grow Succulents In Orchid Bark?
As you can guess from the name itself, orchid bark is adapted for orchids and is not suitable for growing succulents in it. However, you can mix it with other ingredients and drainage material like perlite or pumice, and in that way create something more suitable, although still not ideal soil for growing these unique plants.
Abstract – Can I Use Orchid Soil For Succulents?
Growing succulents can be a fun and easy way to add some liveliness to your home or garden. However, it is very important to use the right soil to ensure that your plants are getting everything they need in order to thrive.
So, can I use orchid soil for succulents? The fact is that not all types of succulents thrive in orchid soil; most of them are simply not a perfect match. If you really insist, opt for some popular tropical species such as Crassula capitellar ‘Campfire’, Aloe ciliaris, or Cotyledon orbiculata, as they have been proven to succeed in this type of growing medium.
What do you say, are you going to try growing in this type of soil, or are you more of a traditional person who likes to play it safe? Tell us more below.
Read more about: Can Succulents Be Grown In Office Spaces? 4 Varieties Guaranteed To Thrive
