Just got an amazing “Silver Dollar” specimen and am looki...
Just got an amazing “Silver Dollar” specimen and am looking for personal experiences for potting soil to grow indoors in NW USA?
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Hi Tiffany- no personal experience from me- but this is some good info for you. I hope it helps 😊 For growing a Silver Dollar Vine (Xerosicyos danguyi) in the humid, rain-prone Pacific Northwest (PNW), you need an ultra-gritty, sharply-draining soil mix to fight off root rot caused by ambient humidity and low winter light. Commercial, peat-heavy soils hold moisture for far too long in this climate. The Ideal PNW DIY Mix Recipe- To keep your succulent safe from the regional dampness, mix your own substrate using a 1:1:1 ratio:1 Part Pumice: This is the secret weapon for the Pacific Northwest. Pumice is highly porous, provides permanent aeration, and prevents soil clogs better than gravel or perlite.1 Part Coarse Sand or Fine Granite: Use heavy horticultural sand or poultry grit to create a rocky, desert-like texture that mimics Madagascar's natural terrain.1 Part Organic Potting Soil: Standard peat-free soil or coconut coir to give the roots a base to hold onto for mild nutrient uptake.
Or- if you prefer a pre-made mix, look for specialized, non-compacting options: Bonsai Jack Succulent and Cactus Gritty Mix (my absolute go-to!) is a widely praised, 100% gritty substrate that makes overwatering virtually impossible. Sol Soils Succulent Gritty Mix incorporates calcined clay, granite, and pumice to maximize drainage while retaining minimal moisture. Essential Planting Tips for the Region- Use Terracotta Pots: Unglazed terracotta is breathable and pulls wicked moisture out of the soil profile much faster than plastic or ceramic. Skip Moisture Control Soil: Avoid standard retail potting brands labeled with "moisture control" technology. They rely on wetting agents designed to keep soil damp, which will quickly kill a Silver Dollar Vine
Thank you for these responses. This really helps!!
