The Secret to Successful Cactus and Succulent Cultivation: Discovering the Ideal Substrate

Characteristics of the Ideal Substrate

The right substrate for cacti and succulents must meet certain key characteristics:

1. Good drainage: Drainage capacity is essential. The substrate must allow excess water to disperse quickly to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

2. Aeration: Good air flow around the roots is essential. The substrate should not be too compacted, which could prevent oxygen circulation.

3. Low water retention: Although it may seem paradoxical, succulents do not thrive in substrates that retain too much moisture. Opt for a substrate that allows water to evaporate quickly.

4. Balanced nutrients: Although succulents do not require nutrient-rich substrates, a light supply of nutrients is essential for their healthy growth.

Common Substrate Ingredients

To create the perfect substrate, you can combine several ingredients that meet the aforementioned characteristics:

1. Coarse sand: Provides the necessary drainage and prevents compaction of the substrate.

2. Potting soil (not leaf soil): A light, well-aerated mixture provides an anchor for the roots.

3. Tepojal or Tezontle type volcanic rock material: These materials help improve aeration and drainage by avoiding compaction of the substrate.

4. Organic matter: Adding a small amount of compost or vermicompost can provide a light source of nutrients.

5. Small gravel: It can help improve drainage and prevent excessive water retention.

Imagen ilustartiva generada por IA, en realidad no tiene texto

Tezontle

Tepojal o cacahuatillo

Cacti and succulents are fascinating plants that have gained popularity in recent years due to their unique beauty and hardy nature. However, one of the most critical factors for their health and proper growth is the material in which they are planted, which is called substrate. Choosing the right substrate can make the difference between healthy cacti and succulents or weak or sick plants. In this article, we will explore some of the secrets behind a good substrate for growing cacti and succulents, giving you practical tips to ensure a successful grow.

The Specific Demands of Cactus and Succulents

Before we dive into the details of the substrate, it is crucial to understand why these plants have special needs. Cacti and succulents are native to arid and desert habitats, where in general, rapid drainage and low water retention are essential for their survival. Therefore, replicating these conditions in the growing environment is essential.

Proportions and Mixing

A common recipe for the substrate is one part potting soil, one part coarse sand or fine gravel, and one part tepojal or tezontle. However, the proportions can be adjusted depending on the specific growing conditions and needs of your plants.

Initially it is safer to use a substrate mixture that maximizes drainage and water evaporation, although this could imply a greater need for irrigation, depending on other important factors that we will discuss later such as: container, climate and light.

SUMMARIZING

The right substrate is a critical factor in successfully growing cacti and succulents. By understanding the needs of these plants and choosing ingredients that meet essential characteristics, you can create an ideal environment for their growth. Remember that, in addition to the substrate, other factors such as light, temperature and irrigation are also essential for success in growing these fascinating plants from the plant kingdom.