Lithops , also known as living stones , can be quite ambitious to keep alive in the long term . While they are relatively easy to raise from seminal fluid , maintaining their health and ensuring their survival as they mature can be more difficult . As someone who has had personal experiences with growing lithops , I can share some guideline for achieving success with these captivating but delicate plants .
One crucial aspect to consider when growing lithops is the soil composition . Unlike Haworthia , which can expand in staring pumice , stone life face favour a different eccentric of soil premix . It is authoritative to deflect engraft them in consummate pumice stone , as this may not supply the necessary nutrient and moisture retention that lithops require . Instead , a well - draining soil intermixture with a combination of materials such as coarse grit , perlite , and a minor amount of organic matter is advocate . This mixture allows for proper drainage while still put up some essential nutrient .
When it comes to watering lithops , it is all important to understand their unique water needs . These plants have adapted to endure in waterless conditions , and overwatering can be detrimental to their health . It is best to irrigate lithops meagrely , grant the soil to dry out completely between watering . During the summertime maturate season , a light tearing once every two to three week should be sufficient . In contrast , during the winter dormant period , it is advisable to withhold tearing altogether to mimic their natural habitat .
Another important element in assure the long - condition succeeder of stone plant is providing them with the correct amount of sunlight . These works boom in bright , indirect light , and they should be placed in a location where they receive full sunshine for at least a few time of day each solar day . However , it is crucial to protect them from intense , direct sunlight , peculiarly during the hottest hr of the day . Too much sunlight exposure can cause sunburn and damage the delicate leave of absence of stone life face .
While stoneface are bang for their ho-hum growth , they do want occasional fertilization to maintain their health . However , it is crucial to apply a diluted , balanced fertilizer specifically contrive for succulent . Applying fertilizer once or twice a year during the mature season can ply the necessary nutrient without overstimulating their ontogenesis . It is all important to stick to the manufacturer ’s command and avoid overfertilization , as this can conduct to untoward effect on the industrial plant .
In plus to these care guidelines , it is important to on a regular basis monitor stone plant for any signs of pests or disease . mutual trouble admit mealybugs , fungus gnat , and theme rot . Inspecting the plants regularly and take necessary measures to address any issues right away can help forbid further damage and ensure the long - term survival of lithops .
While stone-face can be challenging to keep active in the long term , with right care and attention , they can thrive and keep on to amaze with their singular and captivating appearance . By providing the correct soil mix , watering sparingly , see to it proper sunlight photo , episodic fecundation , and monitor for pests and diseases , you may increase your chance of successfully maintaining these fascinating plants . Remember , each lithops is unequalled , and understanding their specific needs and adapting your care consequently is central to their foresighted - terminus survival .
Caroline Bates
