Lithops query

[Eric Williams]

Hi all, when I started growing these plants I was unaware of the fact that old dried up leaves should be removed. I have many old plants now that have an old woody stem in the centre. Would it be benificial to the plant if I removed the heads and re root them ? If so is this right time to do it. Thanks

[Astro]

Why should old leaves be removed? In my experience they help protect the current leaf pair (especially if the bodies are mostly buried) so I try not to disturb the remains. I can’t comment on what happens after 20 years of accumulated leaves however...

[iann]

You don't have to remove the old leaves, but they can get a bit messy after a while. Good place for pests to hide too. I try to remove them, but often they lurk below the surface and I don't get them until I repot. Not sure they really cause long woody stems, that's more down to your growing conditions and age (mostly growing conditions, Lithops don't naturally grow very tall even after decades). If you're going to remove them, don't be in a rush because they come off easiest when they're thoroughly crispy right down to the bottom. And don't pull too hard, a gentle tearing action from one side of the crispy leaf is less likely to pull off the whole head.

[Eric Williams]

You are right Ian. It's probably down to age. Some of my plants are over thirty year old, and not looking their best. I think I will remove a few heads and try to root them. I assume this time of the year will be ok ? Thank you

[MaciejW]

Hi Eric,
It's perfect time to do it!
Good luck.

[iann]

Hi Eric,
It's perfect time to do it!
Good luck.

I think yesterday was the perfect time to do it But I probably wouldn't have done it at all. I'm terrible for leaving mesembs that should be beheaded or split. Luckily for me Lithops can go a long long time, but some others can get very leggy very quickly.