overwatering dormancy and Lithops
Quick answer
If overwatering dormancy is what's going on with your Lithops, the most likely cause is: Lithops are winter-type succulents that enter summer dormancy when temperatures rise above 77°F/25°C. Overwatering during this period is the primary killer of Lithops — the swollen leaves store sufficient water reserves to survive months without external moisture.
Start here:
- 1. 1. Stop all watering from approximately May through August — do not resume until temperatures cool
- 2. 2. If planted in dense clusters, separate individual plants to ensure excellent air circulation around each
Why overwatering dormancy happens to Lithops
Lithops are winter-type succulents that enter summer dormancy when temperatures rise above 77°F/25°C. Overwatering during this period is the primary killer of Lithops — the swollen leaves store sufficient water reserves to survive months without external moisture.
How to correct overwatering dormancy on Lithops
- 1
1. Stop all watering from approximately May through August — do not resume until temperatures cool
- 2
2. If planted in dense clusters, separate individual plants to ensure excellent air circulation around each
- 3
3. During dormancy, position in bright indirect light and maintain temperatures below 86°F/30°C
- 4
4. When new leaves emerge in fall, begin light watering only after the old outer leaves have completely withered
- 5
5. If plants appear severely shriveled before fall, a single light watering in late summer is acceptable but never soak
Keep overwatering dormancy from repeating on this Lithops
Cease watering entirely from late spring through early fall. Resume watering only when the plant shows visible wrinkling or the outer leaves begin to wither, signaling new growth activation in fall.