Purpose and Function
The LDP Super Drainage Mix is a professional grade potting medium specifically formulated for highly water-sensitive succulents and cacti. It is designed to provide maximum aeration and rapid drainage, ensuring that moisture never settles around root systems for longer than necessary. This mix is the exact formula we use for our sensitive private collection and mother plants.
Composition and Ingredients
This premium medium consists of a 1:1:1 ratio of Ibaraki Hard Akadama, HyΕ«ga Pumice, and high-grade Perlite. This combination creates a stable, long-lasting substrate that does not break down or compact over time, maintaining oxygen flow to the roots of your plants.
Which plants should I use this mix for?
LDP Super Drainage Mix is perfectly suited for all ‘high risk’ species that are prone to root rot in standard potting soils. This includes:
- All species of cacti, including Ariocarpus and Aztekium.
- Mesembs such as Lithops, Conophytum, and Muiria.
- Caudiciforms like Adenium, Dioscorea, Pachypodium.
- Succulents like Haworthia, Gasteria, Euphorbia and all Stapeliads (Huernia, Orbea, etc).
Usage Guide
Preparation
The mix is ready to use straight out of the bag. We recommend that it is not mixed with any other soil. You may add small bark chips or milled bark if you prefer a slight organic component.
Potting Recommendations
When using the Super Drainage Mix, ensure your pots have adequate drainage holes. This mix works well in both plastic and terracotta containers.
Watering Frequency
Because this mix drains so efficiently, you may find that you need to water slightly more frequently during the active growing season compared to organic-heavy soils. However, make sure not to over compensate by watering too much.
Fertilizing
As this is a purely inorganic, mineral-based substrate, it contains limited organic nutrients. We recommend using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at a diluted strength during your plants’ active growing seasons to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.
Longevity
Unlike standard potting soils that decompose and become compacted after a year, our Super Drainage Mix remains structurally sound for much longer. This reduces the need for frequent repotting and minimizes root disturbance for slow-growing species. Do note that long term, the akadama in this medium will become softer and break apart somewhat, but this will only happen after a few years.
Sizing and Amount
The mix is sold in specific volume bags from 3 liters to 24 liters.