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Lithops: leaf cycles and very careful watering

Lithops. During leaf replacement, the new pair draws water from the old one; watering then often causes splitting or rot.

Lithops

Light

Very bright light with several hours of sun after acclimation.

Watering

Water according to the growth cycle, not when old leaves wrinkle naturally.

Soil

An almost mineral, very fast-drying mix.

More useful detail

Care over time

Rhythm through the year

Timing varies by species, but the dry leaf-replacement phase is crucial. Plants may also rest during summer heat.

Growth and training

Repot infrequently and keep the neck firmly set in the mineral mix.

Plant

A simple care routine for Lithops

  1. 1

    Check light and moisture deeper in the pot.

  2. 2

    First identify the current phase: growth, flowering, leaf replacement or rest.

  3. 3

    Track successive leaves and the pace of growth.

Observation

Changes worth checking

  • Several leaf pairs stacking
  • Soft translucent tissue
  • Growth stretching above the mix
Important

Watering frequency changes with light, temperature, pot size and potting mix. Use any interval as a reminder to check the plant, not as an automatic watering day.

Florli

Related guides and features

Library Plant care library Practical plant profiles for light, watering, soil and the changes worth watching. Read the guide → Library Plant problems Yellow leaves, brown spots and root problems: learn what to inspect first and how to avoid making the situation worse. Read the guide → Feature Plant care and garden planner Florli brings plants, places, work history and weather into one focused list for today and the days ahead. Read the guide →
Sources and further reading: RHS: houseplant cacti and succulents

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Prepared by Florli. This is general guidance. Sources are listed with each guide, and every decision should reflect the species, location, weather and the plant’s current condition.