So, I know a lot of people on here at this point who are far past the beginner stage of succulent care and cultivation. Heck many are nearly expert. This leads me to think this would be the most appropriate place to host this discussion, as many other forums consist of people discussing and looking for basic guidance. There is nothing wrong with this, I’m just looking to gather info on some more advanced techniques and to share some of my own! My first question concerns creating tighter rosettes while also having nice, plump and firm leaves AND great coloration. Some I’m hitting the nail on the head, yet others stray from my vision! I feel my results have not necessarily been consistent enough in certain areas (especially considering they are hybrids of various things. Mostly secret, too) to present a concrete process or formula. So I digress, what are your techniques for achieving this? I’m also happy to share pictures of some of my plants as well as techniques. I’m not being conceded, but I have so far been pretty successful at not only maintaining, but creating more beautiful succulents than I thought possible long ago!

Here are some details of my processes:

I use a gritty mix I create myself (lotsa trial and error!) it has a smaller particle size than many like, but since I focus on the cultivation of smaller succulents AND I actually strive to keep them that way, it works great for me. It consists of Calcinated clay, zeolite, pumice, a second turface Type of clay that I like, crushed granite, crushed red lava rock and I mix it with a ligjt Diatomaceous earth paste.