Planting Succulents: Drainage, Weed Control & Soil Prep

Mini jade, flapjacks (Kalanchoe luciae), and red New Zealand flax (Phormium) need sharp drainage. Your climate dictates the prep.

If You Get Regular Rain

• Amend native soil 50/50 with pumice, perlite, or coarse sand.
• Create raised beds or mounds 6–12″ high.
• Top with 1–2″ gravel mulch.

If You're in a Dry Climate (e.g., San Diego)

• Plant directly in native soil if it drains.
• Gravel mulch still recommended.

Weed Prevention

• Lay landscape fabric, cover with soil/sand/gravel, then plant through X-cuts.
• Or: apply corn gluten meal (pre-emergent) in early spring.
• Hand-pull the few weeds that appear—dry soil keeps numbers low.

Succulents hate wet crowns. Keep mulch away from stems.