Succulents do best when planted in soil that is formulated specifically to drain well. This means most potting soils, and even regular soil from your garden, will not be ideal for succulent growth. Thankfully, there is a range of easy-drain soils available—try a generic cactus and succulent potting soil, or an African violet soil mix, both of which are available at most local gardening centers or hardware stores. You can even make your own succulent soil at home with sand and pumice mixed into potting soil to amplify the draining ability of the substance.