Lithops, also known as “living stones,” are typically grown in soil due to their unique needs as succulent plants. However, for those who enjoy gardening or experimenting with new methods, the idea of growing Lithops through hydroponics might seem intriguing. Hydroponics involves growing plants in water, eliminating the need for soil, which can reduce issues related to pests and soil-borne diseases. But can Lithops, a plant that thrives in dry conditions, successfully adapt to a hydroponic environment? In this post, we’ll explore the process, results, and conclusions drawn from an experiment with Lithops hydroponics.
1. Overview of the Lithops Hydroponics Experiment
Lithops are well-known for their sensitivity to overwatering, which can easily lead to root rot or other growth issues. This makes hydroponics a particularly challenging method for growing Lithops. In this experiment, six Lithops aucampiae were selected and their roots were immersed in water for a period of four weeks to observe the outcome.
2. Preparation for Hydroponics
To prepare the Lithops for hydroponics, the roots were carefully cleaned to remove all soil. It’s crucial to avoid letting the plant’s growing point (the central area of the Lithops) come into contact with water, as this can lead to severe damage. A container was chosen that allowed only the lower part of the roots to be submerged, with the growing point kept dry and elevated above the water level using a support device.
3. Results of the Experiment
Week 1: New roots began to develop from the submerged Lithops. White, healthy roots were visible, and the overall health of the plants appeared stable.
Week 2: More new roots emerged, and the Lithops started to elongate. This abnormal growth, known as etiolation, is common in succulents when they receive insufficient light or excessive moisture. Additionally, numerous fine roots sprouted, which contributed to the elongation.
Week 4: Despite the initial success, one of the Lithops showed signs of decay. The growing point began to rot, a critical issue that nearly always results in the plant’s death. Eventually, one Lithops succumbed, while the others remained healthy for the time being.
4. Lessons Learned and Conclusion
Possibility of Lithops Hydroponics: The experiment demonstrated that Lithops can indeed grow in a hydroponic setup. The roots adapted to the water environment, and new root growth was observed.
Challenges: However, significant challenges arose. The most prominent issue was etiolation, where the plants grew excessively tall, losing their compact and characteristic shape. Another serious problem was the rotting of the growing point when it accidentally came into contact with water, which is fatal for Lithops.
Conclusion: While hydroponics for Lithops is technically possible, it is fraught with risks. The potential for abnormal growth and the high likelihood of rot make this method unsuitable for those looking to maintain the natural appearance and health of their plants. Therefore, unless there is a compelling reason to do so, growing Lithops in soil remains the preferred method.
Lithops hydroponics can be an interesting experiment but is generally not recommended for long-term cultivation. If you’re considering this method, be aware of the risks and proceed with caution.
You can find Lithops-related products at the Petit Plants Store. For more tips on growing Lithops, visit the Petit Plants YouTube channel, and watch the full hydroponics experiment here.
