What is the best soil for succulents?

Succulents hate compact, wet soil, so what you need to look for is something well-draining and light! The most important thing is that water doesn't pool, because roots rot quickly and the plant dies. A basic mix that really works well is universal potting soil mixed with coarse sand or perlite in ratios like 1:1 or even 60% soil and 40% draining material. If you want to be more precise, add a bit of fine gravel at the bottom of the pot too - it helps a ton with drainage!

Lots of people are crazy about specific succulent mixes you can buy ready-made in stores, but honestly if you're just starting out and don't want to spend a fortune, the DIY recipe works great. The important thing is to avoid soils that are too rich in peat or organic matter, because they hold moisture that succulents really don't like. And if you throw some activated charcoal into the mix, even better - it prevents bad smells and fungi when you water.

One detail a lot of people don't think about: the pot has to have drainage holes, period! There's no point having the best soil in the world if water just gets trapped. After repotting, wait at least a week before watering for the first time - the wounds on the roots need to heal. Succulents are tough plants, once you get them in the right soil they give you way fewer headaches!