Cacti, like succulents, need a very lightweight, free-draining compost in order to thrive – in the wild, they often survive in the cracks between rocks or on very dry soil in deserts. Waterlogged soil will cause the roots to rot and will kill your plants, so soil or compost that has good drainage is essential.
Cacti certainly do not need much watering and can survive long periods of drought, but it's a common misconception that they don't need any nutrients. They do need some nutrients in their soil, albeit in low quantities, to prevent them growing poorly, yellowing or failing to flower.
Best soils for cacti
Good drainage is the secret of success when it comes to growing cacti. They prefer a free-draining soil that allows excess water to flow out quickly. To take the guesswork out of making your own, you can buy a specialist cactus mix.
Here are some examples of pre-made and peat-free cactus potting mixes:
Grow Buddha Cactus & Succulent Soil
Grow Buddha's mission is to help people grow beautiful things and their products are designed to bring the gardener out in anyone. The Grow Buddha Cactus & Succulent Soil is a premium blend, peat-free compost mix that contains a novel range of organic materials, including volcanic materials, perlite, vermiculite, coco coir and lava rocks. It provides an airy and free draining environment that also provides your plants with key nutrients, ensuring the health and vigour of your cacti, and good flowering. You can also use this compost for your succulents, too.
Miracle-Gro Premium Peat-Free Cactus, Succulent & Bonsai Compost
- Buy now from B&Q (£6.00).
Miracle-Gro Premium Peat-Free Cactus, Succulent & Bonsai Compost is specially formulated for the special needs of cacti and contains send that improves drainage. It is designed to provide the perfect balance of excellent drainage and moisture retention. Its lightweight and well-aerated texture allow for proper airflow to the roots, preventing waterlogging and root rot, which are common challenges for these types of plants.
With a pH-balanced formula contains less lime, giving the slightly acidic conditions that cacti like. It contains 14 vital minerals and trace elements to support your cacti, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
You could also use this compost for succulents, bonsai, alpines and African violets.
Growth Technology Cactus & Succulent Peat-Free Repotting Mix
The Cactus Focus Peat Free Repotting Mix from Growth Technology is the perfect growing medium for your cacti. This three litre bag contains a well-balanced blend of professional-grade coir, composted fine bark, soil, grit, and sand, providing optimal drainage and promoting strong root growth. It contains a balanced range of nutrients, to support healthy and vigorous growth, resulting in healthy, happy plants. You can use this compost for growing all of your favourite succulents and alpines, too.
Bonsai Jack Succulent and Cactus Soil
- Buy now from Etsy (£15.06).
This free-draining mix from Bonsai Jack Succulent and Cactus Soil effectively prevents root rot and overwatering, ensuring the health and longevity of your cacti. It is specially formulated, mimicking the dry conditions these plants thrive in. This mix features a pH-optimized blend of 5.5, perfect for cacti, as well as succulents and bonsai.
Westland Potting mix Peat-free Cacti & succulent Compost 4L
- Buy now from B&Q (£5.50).
Westland Potting Mix Peat-free Cacti & Succulent Compost is a great growing medium for cacti. It contains Seramis (fine grade fired clay, which both holds water and allows excellent drainage), grit and sand. It can also be used for succulents.