From my perspective, timing is everything. I am a Lithops, a master of survival in harsh, arid environments. My entire life cycle is dictated by the seasons and my need to conserve water. The safest time for you to repot me is when I am dormant, which is typically during the height of summer or the depths of winter. During these periods, my growth processes slow to a near halt. I am not actively producing new roots or leaves, so the disturbance is minimal and far less shocking to my system. The absolute worst time is in the autumn or early spring when I am either flowering or preparing to split open to reveal my new leaf pair. Disturbing me then wastes my precious energy and can cause my new growth to abort.
My most critical need is for a home that replicates my natural, rocky desert habitat. My roots are extremely susceptible to rot if left in moisture for too long. Therefore, my new pot must have excellent drainage. A terracotta pot is ideal, as it breathes and helps wick away excess moisture. The soil mix is paramount. I require a very gritty, mostly inorganic substrate. A perfect mix for me would be roughly 80-90% mineral grit like pumice, perlite, or coarse sand, with only 10-20% organic potting soil. This ensures that water flows through instantly, providing a quick drink for my roots but never allowing them to sit in dampness, which would be a death sentence.
Please handle me with the utmost care. Gently tap the sides of my current pot to loosen the soil. Tilt the pot and carefully ease me out. Do not pull on my body, as you could damage my stem and leaves. Once I am free, you will see my root system. Gently brush away the old soil, being very cautious not to break my long taproot. This main root is my lifeline, storing water and anchoring me deeply. Inspect my roots closely. If you see any that are mushy, black, or dried out and stringy, you can carefully trim them away with sterile scissors. This helps me focus my energy on growing new, healthy roots in my fresh soil.
Place a layer of my new gritty mix in the bottom of the new pot. Hold me gently above it, positioning me so that the base of my body will sit just slightly below the rim of the pot. My roots should dangle freely downward. Begin carefully filling in the spaces around my roots with the soil mix, occasionally tapping the pot on the table to help the soil settle and eliminate large air pockets. Do not pack the soil down tightly. Once I am securely positioned, you might be tempted to water me immediately. Please resist! I must have time to heal any tiny root abrasions incurred during the move. Leave me in a bright, airy spot with indirect light and do not water me for at least a week, sometimes even two. This dry period is essential for me to callous over any wounds and begin sending out new rootlets in search of water, establishing myself firmly and safely in my new home.
