Lithops , also known as living stone , can indeed be a challenge to take care of . However , with the ripe knowledge and care , it is definitely possible to successfully grow and maintain these unique plants . In this response , I will allow elaborated entropy on the care requirements for Lithops , including sunlight , lacrimation , and potting mixing .
1 . Sunlight : Lithops ask vivid , unmediated sunshine for several hour each day . They are aboriginal to regions with acute sunlight exposure , so it is important to mimic these conditions in cultivation . put your Lithops in a gay location , such as a Confederacy - facing window or outdoors in a spot that receives full sun . However , be conservative of acute midday sun during hot summer months , as it can scorch the plants . step by step introduce them to direct sun if they have been antecedently turn in less vivid light experimental condition .
2 . Watering : One of the most essential aspect of Lithops concern is proper watering . These plants are adapted to arid environments and have germinate to store piss in their leaves . They have a dormant menstruum during summer , so it is authoritative to adjust watering accordingly . During the active growing time of year ( spring and autumn ) , urine Lithops sparingly when the soil has all dry out . practice the “ soakage and dry ” method , which involves thoroughly water the works until water drains out of the batch ’s drain hole , and then allow the soil to dry out completely before water again . On the other hand , during the hibernating period ( summertime ) , it is good to withhold watering entirely or provide just a small amount of moisture . Overwatering can go to root rotting and in the end harm the plant .
3 . Potting Mix : Lithops postulate passing well - drained soil to keep surplus wet retentivity . A suited potting mix can be created by blend equal parts of coarse guts , perlite or pumice stone , and a well - draining cactus or succulent grease mixture . Alternatively , you may purchase a pre - made mixture specifically formulated for cactus and succulents . obviate using veritable potting soil , as it tends to retain too much moisture , which can be detrimental to Lithops . The pot itself should have drain holes to assure excess water supply can scarper .
4 . Temperature and Humidity : Lithops expand in warm and wry condition . They prefer temperatures between 70 - 90 ° F ( 21 - 32 ° snow ) during the fighting growing season , while cooler temperature ( around 50 - 60 ° F or 10 - 15 ° nose candy ) are suitable during their dormant period . As for humidness , Lithops prefer miserable humidity levels , similar to the desiccated region they originate from . They are not well - suited for humid environments and may suffer from fungal diseases or rot if exposed to prolonged high humidness .
5 . Additional Care Tips : – Avoid repot Lithops frequently , as they choose to stay slenderly root - bound . – Protect Lithops from excessive rainfall or prolong vulnerability to gamy humidness , as this can leave to molder . – It is natural for Lithops to undergo a period of sleeping , during which their outer leaves may dry up and shrivel . This is a normal part of their growth cycle , so do not be appall . – Pest infestations are relatively rare in Lithops , but be on the lookout man for coarse succulent pests like mealybugs or spider mites . handle any infestations promptly using constitutional pest control methods .
While growing Lithops can be challenging , it is definitely possible with proper care . provide them with sufficient sun , appropriate tearing , and a well - drain potting mixture will go a long way in insure their health and vitality . Remember to mimic their instinctive home ground and be mindful of their specific needs . With longanimity and attention to point , you may successfully cultivate these fascinating living stone .
Caroline Bates
