Taking aid of stone-face , also known as living stones , ask a specific approach to ensure their wellness and length of service . These unique plants are aboriginal to arid region and have conform to survive in highly teetotal condition . To put up the good care for stone life face , it is significant to sympathise their lifelike home ground and adjust our watering habit consequently .
1 . read the natural home ground : Lithops are native to the deserts of southerly Africa , where they grow in sandlike or bumpy soils with very special entree to water system . They have evolved to stash away piddle in their foliage , which let them to endure prospicient periods of drouth . Mimicking their lifelike environment is key to their well - being .
2 . natural spring and summertime watering : During the growing season , which typically hap in spring and summer , it is crucial to give up the dirt to dry out completely between lachrymation . stone life face expand in a wry environment , and overwatering can contribute to origin buncombe and other number . drive to water only when the soil is completely juiceless , typically every two to three weeks . When watering , make indisputable to do so deeply , allow water to reach the roots .
3 . Checking for signs of dehydration : While lithops are drought - tolerant , it is significant to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration . If the industrial plant start to shrivel up or show mark of wrinkling , it is an meter reading that they require water . However , it is best to expect until they show clean-cut signal of evaporation before watering , as this ensures you are not overwatering .
4 . Fall and winter dormancy : In the fall and wintertime , lithops typically go into a period of dormancy and require little to no water . During this clip , reduce watering frequency significantly , or even kibosh water entirely . The plant will swear on the water stored in their leaves to sustain themselves . It is essential to forfend lacrimation during this period to prevent the risk of exposure of rot . However , if the lithops start to shrivel or show sign of the zodiac of extreme desiccation , it may be necessary to give them a small amount of water system .
5 . Soil and container selection : Lithops prefer well - draining soil to forestall water from sitting around their root . Use a specially formulated cactus or succulent mix , or make your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or rough-cut sand . to boot , choose a shallow container with practiced drainage to ensure excess H2O can get away easily .
6 . lightness requirements : Lithops thrive in smart sunlight , so placing them in a sunny localisation is essential for their outgrowth . A south - facing windowpane or a spot outdoors with unmediated sunlight is ideal . However , be cautious of intense midday sun during the hottest months , as it can blacken the plants . Gradually acclimatize them to organize sunlight to prevent sunburn .
7 . Temperature considerations : Lithops prefer warm temperatures and can tolerate a wide kitchen stove , ideally between 70 - 85 ° F ( 21 - 29 ° C ) . annul exposing them to temperatures below 50 ° F ( 10 ° C ) for protracted period , as it can lead to damage or even dying . During the wintertime , it may be necessary to move them indoors or allow protection from icing .
8 . minimum fertilization : Lithops do not require frequent fertilisation . If you opt to fertilize , do so sparingly during the growing time of year using a diluted , balanced succulent plant food . ward off fertilise during the dormant period .
Taking care of stoneface expect a hands - off approach and a mystifying understanding of their rude home ground . By mimic their arid surround , providing proper lighting , and align watering habits consequently , you could check the health and longevity of these captivating and alone plants .
Caroline Bates