What Is Causing Malformation In These Echeveria?

Question

Hello, I have been propagating from a single echeveria plant for a little over a year. Small baby echeveria, I will put together in a single pot, until they are large enough to move to their own pot. All of the baby plants have grown perfectly, except for four that I placed with a tiny cactus in the center. The cactus is two years old and refuses to get bigger. The four echeveria are misshapen and their lower layer of leaves barely formed before they dried out. I water this pot the same as the others and it stays in the same lighting area. The only difference is the tiny cactus in the center. Can anyone explain why the cactus would cause the echeverias to not grow properly? The photo showing three echeveria in a plastic container are three I removed from another white pot (same as the other). They are the normal.

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Answer 1

This is possibly due to consistently wet soil in the cactus container. The damp conditions may be hindering the echeverias' preference for well-draining soil and affecting the cactus, which typically thrives in drier conditions. To address this, consider repotting both plants into separate containers with ample drainage holes and tailored soil compositions. This adjustment, coupled with a revised watering routine, should promote optimal growth and health for both the echeverias and the cactus.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents