poor drainage on Crassula
Quick answer
If your Crassula has poor drainage, the most likely cause is: Most succulents need fast-draining soil to prevent root rot — they evolved in habitats where water moves quickly through gritty substrates. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture and creates waterlogged conditions.
Start here:
- 1. Use cactus/succulent commercial mix or create own: 50% potting soil + 50% perlite/pumice/grit
- 2. Add 1-2 inches of broken clay pot shards (crocks) at base of pot before adding soil
Why Crassula gets poor drainage
Most succulents need fast-draining soil to prevent root rot — they evolved in habitats where water moves quickly through gritty substrates. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture and creates waterlogged conditions.
How to reverse poor drainage on Crassula
- 1
Use cactus/succulent commercial mix or create own: 50% potting soil + 50% perlite/pumice/grit
- 2
Add 1-2 inches of broken clay pot shards (crocks) at base of pot before adding soil
- 3
Charcoal chips keep soil sweet and prevent anaerobic conditions
- 4
Repot annually in spring to refresh soil and inspect root health
- 5
Ensure pot has unobstructed drainage holes — even 1 blocked hole causes problems
Keep poor drainage off this Crassula
Use 50%+ perlite/grit in cactus soil. Add 1-2 inches of crocks at pot base to prevent water pooling at drainage holes.