I just got a great deal on hand spun clay pots (less then a nickel a piece) so now I would like to replant all my cacti and succulents in them. The thing is when I started to get into them I just used the store bought mix and with the new potting want to give them the best I can afford.

I've heard of people mixing in sea shells to help with drainage. I have about three 5 gallon buckets filled with shells I can smash up for this but are their species I should avoid?

also I have that foam fertilizer, is that any good? If not what should I use instead?

I love these lovely plants. My collection is currently at a variety of 38 plants and I just got in some agave, mix hens & chicks and mixed cacti seeds in. Can't wait to see what species I get. Like a toy in your cereal box!

Any suggestions on growing them from seeds? Type of soil, fertilizer (and when to)

Lastly if anyone in the South Coast area is interested I can get you a great deal on clay pots. I got over 300 so they were dirty cheap per piece but the person is willing to do 25 cents 4" to smaller and 50 cents 5" bigger