Are homemade succulent soil mixes cost-effective?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.If you're making homemade mixes for succulent soil yourself instead of buying them, you'll save money. Bulk quantities of the ingredients to make the mixes are cheaper per batch than mixtures purchased packaged. Your plants also grow better in the custom mixtures. Reduced plant loss due to root rot will lower your replacement costs. Gradually, your do-it-yourself mixes will become cheaper and more effective as well.
Material Economics
- Bulk perlite costs 75% less than small retail bags
- Coarse sand is inexpensive at landscaping suppliers
- Coco coir bricks expand 5x their volume when hydrated
Plant Health Benefits
- Custom drainage prevents costly root rot replacements
- Optimal aeration reduces fertilizer requirements by 40%
- Healthier plants propagate easily creating free specimens
Long-Term Value
- One bulk purchase makes 10+ batches of soil mix
- Properly stored components remain viable for 3+ years
- Reusing amended soil cuts ongoing expenses further
Secure the most savings by implementing smart purchasing practices and ordering perlite in 4-cubic-foot bags from hydroponics dealers. Obtain coarse sand from masonry yards, not garden centers. Buy coco coir as compressed bricks, not loose bags. Initial outlay pays back quickly.
Homemade potting mixes are superior to store-bought mixes in practically every respect. You can control particle size for the right drainage and moisture retention while adjusting the ratios for your local humidity levels (which you will likely be more aware of than manufacturers). Most commercial potting soils contain undesirable moisture-retaining materials. Plants grow stronger with a customized potting mix!
Realistically calculate your personal savings. Observe the survival rates of your plants before and after the switch. Note decreased fertilizer and replacement costs. My collection saved me $120 every year after switching. Your results may differ, but I guarantee you'll save.
Read the full article: Ultimate Succulent Soil Mix Guide
