Lithops, also known as living stones, are unique succulent plants that resemble small stones or pebbles. They are native to Southern Africa, and their intriguing appearance and low maintenance nature have made them popular among succulent enthusiasts worldwide. One might wonder how to propagate these interesting plants, and obtaining seeds from lithops is a key method to do so.
Propagation through seeds allows gardeners to nurture a wide variety of lithops species and colors in their collection. The process of getting seeds from lithops begins with their flowering period, during which pollination takes place and seeds are formed. Patience and proper care are crucial while embarking on this journey, as the germination process requires adherence to specific steps and conditions.
In this article, we will discuss the steps and tips on how to get seeds from lithops plants and provide insights into the germination process. By understanding this propagation method, you can expand your living stone collection and witness the fascinating life cycle of these small yet captivating plants.
Understanding Lithops
Origins and Characteristics
Lithops, commonly known as living stones, are small, stemless succulent plants native to Southern Africa. They have evolved to resemble stones as a means to avoid being grazed upon by animals in their native habitat. Lithops come in various shapes and colors, which adds to their appeal as an eye-catching addition to your succulent collection.
The plant’s body consists of two leaves that are fused together with a slit in the center. It is through this slit that the daisy-like flowers emerge, typically in autumn. Interestingly, Lithops are self-sterile, meaning they require pollination from another plant to produce seeds. The seeds are stored within a hydrochastic fruiting capsule that opens only when moistened.
Caring for Lithops
If you want to grow Lithops successfully, it’s essential to know the basics of their care. These unique plants have specific requirements which include:
- Soil: Lithops thrive in a free-draining soil mix, such as cactus compost combined with fine grit or sand. A half-and-half mix of these components will provide an ideal growing medium for your living stones.
- Light: As desert plants, Lithops require plenty of sunlight to grow. Make sure to place them in a bright location, preferably receiving at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Water: Watering Lithops can be a little tricky, as overwatering them can lead to rot. It is essential to water your Lithops sparingly. You should gradually decrease water after the seeds have sprouted and allow the soil to dry out completely between each watering. During their dormancy period, usually throughout winter, they require even less water.
- Temperature: Lithops can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they prefer a stable environment. As a general rule, maintain temperatures between 65°F and 90°F (18°C-32°C) for optimal growth.
By understanding the origins, characteristics, and care requirements of Lithops, you’ll be well-prepared to successfully grow these fascinating living stones in your own space.
Collecting Lithops Seeds
Identifying Seed Pods
Lithops, also known as living stones, produce seed pods that are essential for propagation. The seed pods are unique, appearing as small, reddish-brown capsules with a fine, papery texture. They are usually located close to the plant’s center, nestled between the two leaf pairs. When the seed pods are mature, they will dry up and split open, revealing the tiny seeds inside. Keep an eye on the plants and become familiar with the appearance of the seed pods to ensure successful collection.
Timing and Tools
The best time to collect Lithops seeds is when the seed pods have fully ripened and started to split. This usually happens a few weeks after the plant has finished flowering. You can observe the seed pod’s development to ensure that the seeds are ready for harvest. Timing is crucial, as the seeds can be easily dispersed by wind or water if left uncollected for too long.
To harvest the seeds, you will need a pair of fine-tipped tweezers, a small container or envelope to store the seeds, and a soft brush to remove any debris. Gently hold the seed pod with the tweezers and carefully break it open to release the seeds. Make sure to work over the container or envelope to catch any seeds that may fall out during the process. Use the soft brush to clean the seeds and remove any remaining plant material before storing them.
Lithops seeds are tiny and delicate, so handle them with care while collecting and storing them. They can be kept in a cool, dry place until you are ready to grow new Lithops from the seeds. Good luck with your seed harvesting journey, and enjoy the fascinating world of Lithops cultivation!
Harvesting and Storing Seeds
Extracting Seeds from Pods
To collect seeds from Lithops plants, you’ll first need to wait for the seed pods to develop. Once the flowers have bloomed and faded, seed pods will form at the base of the flower. You’ll want to wait patiently until these pods become dry and start to split. When they have reached this stage, you can carefully remove the seed pod from the plant.
To extract the seeds, hold the seed pod over a container or piece of paper, and gently crush or break the pod with your fingers. The tiny seeds should easily fall out of the pod, but you might want to use a tweezer for better handling. Lithops seeds are minuscule and look like dust, so working with them is delicate work. Mixing the seeds with silver sand can make them easier to handle during the sowing process.
Proper Storage Techniques
Proper storage of Lithops seeds is essential for maintaining their viability. When storing seeds, the most important factors to consider are humidity, temperature, and light exposure. Place the seeds in a dry, airtight container, such as a small jar or a plastic bag with a tight seal. You may want to include a silica gel packet to help reduce moisture levels.
Store the container in a cool and dark place, like a cabinet or a drawer. Avoid exposing the seeds to direct sunlight and high temperatures, as these conditions can decrease their viability. Moreover, don’t store seeds in a place with fluctuating temperatures, such as a windowsill or an outdoor shed, since this can also negatively affect their quality.
By following these methods of extracting and storing Lithops seeds, you’ve taken the right steps to ensure their preservation and improve your chances of successful propagation in the future.
Germinating Lithops Seeds
Preparing the Growing Medium
To start germinating lithops seeds, you’ll need to first prepare a suitable growing medium. Use a half-and-half mixture of a good quality cactus compost and fine grit or sand, dampened with water. This mix provides the necessary drainage and nutrient balance for successful germination of lithops seeds.
Sowing
When sowing lithops seeds, lightly sprinkle them onto the surface of the prepared growing medium. It’s important to avoid covering the seeds, as they need light to germinate. You can expect the seeds to sprout within a couple of weeks to three months, depending on the conditions.
Watering
After placing the seeds onto the surface, lightly spray the soil with water using a spray bottle. This helps maintain a moist environment in which the seeds can germinate. To further retain moisture, cover the pot with a plastic wrap or a glass pane.
While ensuring consistent soil moisture is essential, bear in mind that lithops require much less water than other succulents. It’s particularly important not to water them from October until after the old pair of leaves has completely withered away, often not until the following May(source).
In conclusion, by preparing a suitable growing medium, carefully sowing lithops seeds, and maintaining appropriate moisture levels, you can successfully germinate and grow these fascinating plants.
Growing and Transplanting Seedlings
Caring for New Lithops Plants
Lithops, also known as living stones, are unique succulents that resemble small stones. To grow them from seeds, prepare a mixture of potting soil and perlite in equal proportions. Dampen the blend with water and pack it into a container that has holes for drainage, approximately 0.5 inches in size from the top. Sprinkle the seeds over the soil, and cover them with a 1/8-inch layer of fine sand or crushed rock.
Lithops require light to germinate, so place the pot in a well-lit area. The germination process usually takes a couple of weeks to three months. Keep an eye on the seedlings and provide them with a consistent amount of water and sunlight as they grow.
When and How to Transplant
Transplanting seedlings helps ensure a healthy living environment as the plants mature. It’s essential to know when and how to carry out this process.
When to Transplant
Lithops seedlings can be transplanted once they’ve reached a state of sufficient growth and stability. One reason for early transplanting could be crowded sowing pots. If seedlings are at risk of being too close together, it’s a good idea to transplant them early.
How to Transplant
To transplant lithops seedlings, follow these steps:
- Prepare a pot with drainage holes, and put gravel at the bottom. Add half a centimeter of substrate suitable for the lithops species you are transplanting, like quartzite in three different grain sizes.
- Tilt the pot by 30° and add half a pot of substrate.
- Soak the pot containing the seedlings in a cup of water to loosen the clod.
- Extract the clod from the pot by tapping on the bottom. Then, carefully transfer the seedlings to the new pot, making sure to provide enough space between them to grow.
Remember to maintain appropriate care for your lithops plants—adequate watering, sunlight, and monitoring their growth are essential steps to ensure a thriving transplanting process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Seed pod extraction
Extracting seeds from a Lithops seed pod can be done by carefully splitting open the mature capsule. Make sure the seed pod is fully developed before attempting this, as immature seed pods may not have viable seeds. Use tweezers or a small, sharp tool to gently break apart the pod and release the tiny seeds.
Germination time
The germination time for Lithops seeds can vary, but typically they will begin to germinate within a week or two after planting. To improve germination rates, ensure the seeds are sown in a well-draining soil mix and maintain consistent moisture by misting the soil using a spray bottle. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a glass pane to help the soil retain moisture during the germination stage.
Indoor growth tips
For successful indoor growth, Lithops require a few specific conditions. They need bright light, so place them near a sunny window or use a grow light. Also, use a well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of potting soil and perlite, to prevent overwatering. Water Lithops sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, and provide a slightly cooler environment during the dormancy period to encourage healthy growth.
Lithops propagation
Lithops can be propagated from seeds or by division. When propagating by division, carefully separate the plant and gently tease apart the roots. Repot the divided plants into individual pots filled with proper soil mix, and care for them as you would a mature Lithops plant.
Planting lithops
To plant Lithops seeds, fill a pot with drainage holes up to 0.5 inches from the top with a mix of potting soil and perlite. Moisten the soil and sprinkle the seeds evenly across the surface. Cover the seeds with a 1/8-inch layer of fine sand or crushed rock. Maintain consistent moisture throughout the germination process.
Ideal germination temperature
The ideal germination temperature for Lithops seeds is around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Consistently maintaining this temperature range will promote healthy germination and optimal growth. You can use a heating mat if needed to create the ideal temperature for your seeds.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
