The Epiphyllum differs from other types of cacti in its demands on the soil. Which substrate is suitable for a leaf cactus? This is how you put together the right soil for the Epiphyllum yourself.
Which substrate is suitable for an Epiphyllum leaf cactus?
A substrate consisting of two thirds of normal houseplant soil and one third of sand or gravel is suitable for Epiphyllum leaf cacti. The soil should be slightly acidic, loose and not enriched with cactus fertilizer, and do not use cactus soil.
Never use cactus soil as a substrate
Even though the Epiphyllum is a type of cactus, its requirements differ from those of other types of cacti. The leaf cactus does not thrive in cactus soil.
You can get special substrate for leaf cacti in stores. But you can also simply put the soil together yourself. It should be slightly sour and, above all, very loose.
For this you need normal soil for houseplants, which you mix with sand or gravel. The mixing ratio should be two thirds earth and one third sand.
Tip
You should never fertilize an epiphyllum with cactus fertilizer as it does not contain the right nutrients. Use a special foliar cactus fertilizer or liquid fertilizer for green plants with little nitrogen, the dosage of which is halved.
