Succulent mixes use a fast‑draining formula with coarse amendments—such as perlite and horticultural sand—to keep the substrate open, prevent compaction, and move excess water away from roots so the soil dries quickly between waterings.
Bagged succulent mixes commonly come in small garden sizes ranging from about 2.4 quarts up to around 8 quarts, with several sizes available between those points.
Typical repotting steps: put mix into a pot with a drainage hole partway up, place the plant’s root ball on the mix, top up with more mix and press lightly to secure the plant, then water and allow the soil to dry to the touch between waterings.
Some succulent soils include root‑boosting mycorrhizae and other beneficial microorganisms or fungi intended to support root development and living soil health.
Some formulations avoid ingredients like bark or compost that can retain moisture and attract fungus gnats. Product notes and reviewer summaries in the results report fewer indoor gnats after switching to these drier, less organic mixes.