Hello, this is Petit Plants. Today's post is inspired by a subscriber's question about watering Lithops during the summer and winter seasons. While Lithops are known for their drought tolerance, understanding when and how to water them during these crucial periods is key to maintaining their health. In this guide, we'll cover how to approach watering both young and mature Lithops during their dormancy periods.
1. Understanding the Lithops Life Cycle
Lithops follow a unique life cycle that includes periods of active growth and dormancy. Typically, Lithops enter dormancy twice a year—once in winter (December to February) and again in summer. During these dormancy periods, often referred to as the "dry season," it is generally recommended to reduce or even stop watering. However, there are exceptions to this rule, particularly for young Lithops.
2. Watering Young Lithops During Dormancy
Young Lithops, or seedlings, require special care because their roots are not yet fully developed. These delicate roots can dry out and die if left without water for too long. Unlike mature Lithops, which can store significant amounts of water in their leaves, young Lithops are much more vulnerable to dehydration.
- Watering Young Lithops: Even during dormancy, young Lithops may need a small amount of water to prevent their roots from drying out completely. It’s important to observe the plant closely and provide just enough water to keep them hydrated without overwatering. If you notice the leaves becoming wrinkled or shriveled, this is a sign that they need water.
3. Watering Mature Lithops During Dormancy
Mature Lithops have the ability to store water and can survive for extended periods without additional watering. During dormancy, their leaves may shrink and develop a wrinkled appearance as they slowly use up their stored water. This is a normal part of their life cycle, and most mature Lithops can go several months without watering.
- Watering Mature Lithops: For mature Lithops, it’s best to strictly adhere to the dry season schedule and only water if absolutely necessary. If you do need to water, do so sparingly and make sure the pot drains well. After watering, it’s crucial to tilt the pot to remove any excess water, especially during dormancy, to prevent root rot.
4. General Watering Tips
Observing Your Lithops: Whether young or mature, it’s important to regularly observe your Lithops. For mature plants, slight wrinkling of the leaves during dormancy is normal and does not require immediate watering. However, if young Lithops show signs of dehydration, it’s essential to water them and ensure the pot has proper drainage.
Ensuring Proper Air Circulation: Good air circulation is vital for Lithops, especially when watering during dormancy. This helps prevent moisture from accumulating around the roots, which can lead to rot.
Tailoring Watering to Your Environment: General guidelines for Lithops care can vary depending on your specific environment. Adjust your watering schedule and methods based on your climate, humidity levels, and the specific conditions of your growing space.
5. Conclusion
Watering Lithops during their dormancy periods, particularly in summer and winter, requires careful consideration. Young Lithops may need occasional watering to prevent dehydration, while mature Lithops generally thrive with minimal water during these times. By observing your plants closely and adjusting your care based on their specific needs, you can develop a watering routine that keeps your Lithops healthy year-round.
If you found this guide helpful, please subscribe to our channel and give the video a thumbs up! For more detailed insights on Lithops care, check out our previous videos that cover the full Lithops life cycle.
For more information, visit the Petit Plants Store and watch the full watering guide on our YouTube channel. You can also check out another useful guide here. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment. Have a great day!
