How to propagate Lithops

Seed propagation

Sowing is done in spring from April to May. Because the seeds are small, they are usually sown in pots indoors. After sowing evenly, cover the surface with a thin layer of soil. When the soil in the pot is dry, you should use the immersion method to water the plant. Never water it directly to avoid washing away the seeds. After sowing, control the temperature at 15-25℃, and it will germinate about half a month after sowing. After germination, let the seedlings gradually see the light. The seedlings are only the size of soybeans and grow slowly, so management must be cautious. It takes 2-3 years for seedlings to bloom.

The potting soil can be prepared by mixing 4 parts of leaf mold, 3 parts of calcareous material (shell powder, eggshell powder, old lime wall chips, etc.), and 3 parts of river sand. When the small plant grows up, you can use a larger pot, but do not plant it too deep, otherwise it will easily cause plant rot.

Propagation by division

Every spring, new fleshy leaves grow from the gaps in the middle of Lithops, causing the old leaves to swell and burst, and the old leaves also shrink and die. The new leaves grow rapidly, then shrink and crack in the summer, and 2 to 3 young new plants grow from the gaps. The young plants can be divided and planted.

Cutting propagation

The soil should be nutrient soil, river sand, peat soil and other materials. Due to limited conditions, it is difficult to get an ideal cutting medium for home cuttings. It is recommended to use a prepared and sterilized cutting medium. Medium-coarse river sand will also work, but it must be rinsed with clean water several times before use. Do not use sea sand or river sand from saline-alkali areas as they are not suitable for the growth of flowers and plants.

During the peak growing season in early spring or late autumn (the maximum temperature at noon does not exceed 28°C and the minimum temperature at night is not lower than 15°C), cut off leaves or stems (with 3 to 4 leaf nodes), wait for the wounds to dry and insert them into the substrate. Spray the cuttings and substrate slightly with moisture. As long as the substrate is not too dry or waterlogged, roots and new shoots will grow quickly. When the temperature is high from late spring to early autumn, the cuttings are very easy to rot, so it is best not to use cuttings.