Hello,  I am a newbie here, from NM and I was wondering if anyone has a better mix suggestion for me; or whatever the problem might be.  I am using > than 50% perlite with 40% peat and 10% sand.  I think the mix seems like its getting compacted.  The roots look white at first and then they turn brownish looking, and small/flattened.  I would like to know the secret of how to get those nice succulent white roots going on again.  Do I need to add something larger to the soil mix for more air?  Any help greatly appreciated.

Thanks Alan, I will try that,  even that Walmart potting soil has some pinebark like pieces in it and that might be the big difference.