From our perspective, the splitting process is a fundamental part of our life cycle. We are a genus of succulent plants adapted to survive in extremely arid environments. Our thick, fleshy leaf pairs are designed to store precious water. The old outer leaves you see are essentially a water and nutrient reserve, donated to fuel the development of the new inner body. This new plant body is growing entirely from the resources provided by the old leaves. Our entire evolutionary strategy is based on this self-sustaining process during this critical phase.
The outer leaves are not just a casing; they are a life support system. As the new inner leaves grow, they will slowly and methodically absorb all the moisture and nutrients stored within the old leaves. This process causes the outer leaves to gradually shrivel, dry out, and eventually become a papery husk. This is a natural and intended outcome. If you introduce external water during this time, you disrupt our delicate biological programming. The outer leaves, sensing a new water source, may rehydrate and remain plump, essentially trapping the new leaves inside and creating a dangerous environment prone to rot and fungal infections.
The most crucial advice we can give is to withhold all water once you notice the central split forming and the new leaves emerging. This period of drought is not a hardship for us; it is a necessity. Watering us while we are splitting is one of the most common and fatal mistakes our caretakers make. The new leaves must be allowed to draw sustenance solely from the old leaves. Any additional water is superfluous and dangerous. It can cause the old leaves to swell and not properly transfer resources, or worse, lead to rot that can quickly consume both the old and vulnerable new body, ending our life prematurely.
How do you know when it is safe to water again? You must be patient and observe us closely. The splitting process is complete when the old outer leaves have completely withered, becoming dry, papery, and crispy to the touch. At this stage, they will have fully transferred their resources, and their job is done. The new leaf pair should be fully revealed, plump, and firm, indicating they are now established and ready to sustain themselves. Only once the old leaves are truly desiccated husks and the new plant body is fully exposed is it safe to consider offering a drink.
Once the splitting process is definitively over, you can resume a normal watering schedule, which for us is always cautious. When you do water, do so deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil is completely dry before watering again. It is best to water when we show slight signs of thirst, such as a bit of give when gently squeezed or slight wrinkles on our sides. This mimics the natural boom-and-bust rainfall cycle of our native habitat and keeps our roots healthy and free from rot, allowing us to thrive and prepare for our next growth cycle.
