What pot depth suits succulents best?

The pot depth has a significant impact on the health of succulents through effective water management. Shallow pots of 2-4" prevent moisture build-up in the majority of species. It allows for the opportunity to replicate shallow-rooting habitats, such as a crevice in a rock, closely. Deep pots increase the likelihood of the soil remaining too wet for an extended period, which can lead to root rot. The pot depth should match the root structure of the chosen succulent.

Assess the height of your plants' roots before selecting pots. Carefully remove the plant from its original pot. Root balls that are less than 3 inches tall need a shallow pot. Plants with deep roots require pots that are at least as long as their longest root. Leave ½ inch of space below the roots. The space is to help prevent water from collecting at the bottom of the pot.

Modify potting strategies based on depth. In a shallow container, use a 100% gritty mix and add extra drainage holes. In a deep pot, use a base of lava rock for drainage, and then use a standard soil mix. Never fill deep containers with soil only. This makes the bottom of the container soggy.

Detect indications of incorrect depth. Yellowing leaves indicate that the pot was planted too deeply, resulting in waterlogged soil. Wrinkled leaves and florets indicate insufficient water in shallow pots, which is less likely caused by inadequate moisture. Stunted growth is also a sign that the roots are otherwise healthy. If any of these effects occur, repot immediately. Repotting assumes that the new potting containers have similar root-sized dimensions to the current ones.

Read the full article: Best Soil for Succulents: Ultimate Guide