Types and Application Methods of Fertilizers Suitable for Lithops
The editor will explain the related knowledge of Lithops, a type of succulent plant, including the types of fertilizers suitable for Lithops and their application methods. Detailed content will be shared next.
In the process of caring for Lithops, it has been found that a loose and fertile cultivation matrix is an important condition for the growth of Lithops. Choosing what kind of fertilizer, when and how to apply it, what concentration to use, and how to determine reasonable fertilization are undoubtedly technical aspects of growing healthy Lithops. Here are some commonly used fertilizers for reference by enthusiasts.
1. Decomposed Sheep Manure
Every spring, collect clean sheep manure, moisten it until no water drips out, then put it in a woven bag and place it in a secluded corner to decompose naturally. By September or October, it can be used. When applying, remove the stones covering the pot of Lithops, carefully remove about 15-20mm of soil from the pot, sprinkle the sheep manure evenly, cover it with about 10mm of new cultivation soil, then place small washed stones on top, water thoroughly, and place it in a well-lit, warm area for care.
When applying sheep manure, be sure to control the amount. In a 10cm pot, about 20 grams is sufficient; in a 20cm pot, use about 50 grams; if the pot is larger, it's better to use less rather than more. The benefits of this application amount and timing are: (1) applying once a year is enough, and no other fertilizers are needed; (2) applying before the flowering period promotes larger and more vibrant flowers with higher fruiting rates; (3) it plays an important role in the rapid post-flowering growth of Lithops, increasing the number of heads, and preventing frost; (4) by the second year, in July and August during the dormant period, when the fertility is exhausted, loosening the soil around the Lithops roots, improving aeration and drainage, and preventing the decay of Lithops during dormancy.
Since sheep manure is cool, rich in potassium and nitrogen, contains a lot of trace elements and cellulose, and is slightly alkaline (pH 7.2-8), after applying it to the pot, the evaporation of water causes the surface of the potting soil to appear salty (commonly known as floating alkali). In April and May of the following year, a layer of surface soil needs to be removed to eliminate the saltiness.
After comparison, the effect of decomposed cow dung is similar, but cow dung contains a lot of viable grass seeds, which may lead to the growth of weeds after application. Chicken and pigeon dung are high in phosphorus and also effective, but the usage amount should be less than sheep manure. Pig dung has the worst effect, as it loses its fertility shortly after application.
2. Fruit Skin Water
Soaking citrus peels in water and using it to water Lithops yields the best results. It's easy to collect citrus peels during the winter and spring seasons. The method is simple: chop the fresh citrus peels into particles, fill a third of an empty beverage bottle with them, add water, seal the cap, and place it in a sunny spot. In cooler temperatures, it takes 10 to 15 days, and in warmer temperatures, about a week, for the water in the bottle to turn orange-yellow and have a citrus scent. When applying, dilute the bottle with another bottle of water and use it for watering.
The benefits of fruit skin water include: (1) supplementing the amino acids and vitamins needed for the growth of Lithops; (2) having no odor and a citrus fragrance after application on a cool balcony or indoors; (3) lowering the pH of the potting soil; (4) increasing the biological activity of the potting soil; (5) complementing the effect of sheep manure in terms of fertility.
3. Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate
The fine white granules sold in agricultural supply stores sometimes contain added nitrogen and other trace elements. This type of fertilizer is generally used as a foliar spray. From September to the end of May of the following year, apply it every 10 to 15 days. The concentration should be around 0.3%, with some of the fertilizer solution flowing into the potting soil.
4. Sesame Paste Residue
It can be collected from places where sesame oil is made. Store it in a sealed beverage bottle or plastic bag until it no longer has an odor. After finely crushing this fertilizer, mix it into the cultivation matrix. The amount used is estimated based on the weight of the cultivation soil, with about 50 grams per kilogram of soil being sufficient.
Adding sesame paste residue to the cultivation soil makes the color of Lithops plants more vibrant, the patterns clearer, and the surface shiny, enhancing the plant's ornamental value. If sesame paste residue is not available, adding a few drops of sesame oil to a 10cm pot can also work, although the effect is slightly less. Be careful not to get it on the plant body and main roots, and do not use too much. After applying, water promptly, and after a week, loosen the potting soil. Only apply once a year. Additionally, after drinking yogurt, rinse the bottle, and with the remaining liquid, let it sit for more than 24 hours before using it to water the plants, but it must be diluted, once in early winter and once in early spring.
The complete content about the types and application methods of fertilizers suitable for Lithops is hoped to be helpful for green plant enthusiasts!