cultivation tips

Soil


This is probably the most important factor in their cultivation,as soil type determines the length of time the plant remains wet. Ideally the soil mixture should be compact to support the fine root system. Mixtures should be slightly acidic and of the type that dries out promptly. We have found sandy loam with a little acidic peat to be ideal. Decomposed granite can be used and is also suitable for most other succulents.

Water


Your watering schedule depends on the speed at which your soil dries out, but use the following guidelines:
In the warm growing season drench the plant, and leave to dry out completely. Add 2 to 3 days to this, before watering again.
Plants should not remain wet for more than 5 to 7 successive days.
Stop watering altogether during the cold season, allowing the old leaf pair to wither and the new pair to develop. In this period lightly spray the heads(to simulate mist) once a fortnight. Once the old leaf pair have shrivelled up entirely, recommence your watering schedule.

Light and Heat


Lithops need (+/-) 4 to 5 hours of daily direct sun and dry air conditions.
Beware of the following:
Magnification of sun from windowpane
Too much humidity (allow ventilation)
Too little light (they grow tall and out of proportion)
A very important note: If your lithops have not been exposed to direct sun, take care when moving them directly into the sun as they easily suffer from sunburn. Many people have lost their lithops in this way. It is best to introduce the plant slowly, leaving it in direct sun an extra 10 minutes per day, until you have them at 4 to 5 hours/day.

Happy growing and feel free to ask us any questions at email:lithops@earthdome.com 1