They also look great with succulent arrangements. We are so glad you enjoyed this informative fall DIY. You can make the DIY desert soil by mixing regular potting dirt with perlite. Typically, vermiculite holds more water than perlite and is mostly used in medium to heavy soil mixes. Plastic used to line the wood holds moisture in and prevents water leaking through its walls. When the succulent seeds, these seeds can remain viable for months since they need minimal moisture.