Planting your first succulent or cactus is all about getting the foundation right — the soil and the planter. Succulents are desert plants that thrive in fast-draining conditions, so regular potting soil can hold too much moisture and suffocate roots.
For this setup, I used Omitgoter Succulent & Cactus Potting Mix, a gritty, well-draining soil that keeps roots healthy. To make it even better, I mixed in perlite at a ratio of 2:1 (two parts soil, one part perlite) to create extra airflow and prevent water from collecting around the roots.
Your planter choice matters just as much as your soil. A container without drainage holes is a recipe for root rot, which is the number one way succulents die. That’s why I used my Studded Planter — a 3D-printed design made from sustainable PLA with hidden drainage holes and a matching tray. The drainage design allows excess water to escape while keeping the roots elevated and dry. The studs also serve as a visual cue when watering — you can watch the water pass through and know the soil is fully saturated before you stop.
Once your soil mix and planter are ready, fill the planter about halfway with soil, place your succulent or cactus, then backfill around the roots until they’re supported. Tap the planter gently to settle the soil, then water deeply for the first time and let the excess drain completely.
Watering Schedule:
Succulents don’t need water on a strict calendar — they thrive with a soak-and-dry method. Water thoroughly until it runs through the drainage holes, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. This could be weekly in hot, dry months or every 2–3 weeks in cooler seasons. Always check the soil with your finger — if it feels dry all the way down, it’s time to water.
Top Dressing:
For a clean look, finish with a layer of small white stones or gravel. This helps the soil dry evenly, keeps pests away, and makes watering easier by preventing soil splash.
With the right soil, planter, and watering routine, your succulents or cacti will thrive with minimal effort. Later on, you can prune off any dead leaves or stems as needed to keep the arrangement fresh and encourage new growth.
What I Used
- Omitgoter Succulent & Cactus Potting Mix – fast-draining soil mix designed for succulents and cacti
- Perlite – lightweight additive to improve drainage and airflow
- 4-Inch Studded Planter – my 3D-printed design with hidden drainage holes and matching tray
- Small white stones or gravel for top dressing