Conophytum succulents have a unique, stone-like appearance. These are small and slow-growing plants found in South Africa. They are not easy to grow as they require much care, especially due to the summer dormancy cycle. Let’s see how they can be grown successfully at home and what things we should keep in mind for this:
Scientific Name of Edamame: Conophytum
Steps to Grow Conophytum Succulents at Home
1. First we need to Choos the right pot and soil for growing Conophytum Succulents
To grow it, use a shallow pot which has drainage holes so that the pot does not get waterlogged.
Use well-drained, sandy soil in the pot to grow the plant. This will prevent waterlogging and the plant from rotting. A mixture of cactus soil + pumice/perlite + sand (in equal parts) works well for this.
2. Second we need to check the sunlight position for the proper growth of plant:
- Keep the plant in bright, indirect sunlight or morning sun, with afternoon shade. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight in summer, as this can scorch the plant.
3. Set the Right time to water the plant:
Conophytum plants have different watering times in winter and summer. It grows well in winter. During this season, water the plants when the soil is dry. When the soil is dry, water lightly once every 2-3 weeks. Apart from this, you can use the “soak and dry” method. In this, water the plant thoroughly but let the soil dry completely.
During summer, it goes into a dormant period. This happens from May to August. Do not water the plants during this time, as the plant rests and absorbs moisture from the old leaves. Excessive watering during the dormant period can cause rotting.
4. Maintaining the right temperature and humidity for proper growth:
Keep the plant in cool to moderate temperatures (10-25°C / 50-77°F) as the plant cannot tolerate extreme cold. Maintain low humidity to prevent plant rot.
5. Right time to fertilize the plant again:
- Use diluted cactus fertilizer (low nitrogen, high phosphorus and potassium) once every 2 months during the growth period. Do not fertilize during the dormant stage in summer.
6. Right way to Replanting and propagating the plant
Replant the plant every 2-3 years to keep the soil fresh and to prevent its excessive growth. While replanting it, separate its small groups and replant them in dry soil.
Some common problems arise while growing Conophytum Succulents, the solution of which is as follows:
Problem:
- Wrinkled leaves in summer.
Solution:
- Lack of attention to the plant. Not giving fertilizer and water at the right time.
Problem:
- The plant is becoming too soft or the plant is rotting.
Solution:
- This problem can occur due to overwatering the plant. To solve this, reduce overwatering and make arrangements for good drainage.
Problem:
- Leaves are tearing?
Solution:
- Giving too much water at once can lead to such a problem, for this, water the plant slowly.
The above problems and their solutions mean that understanding their natural cycle is essential to growing Conophytum succulents at home. Water the plant sparingly, provide bright light and avoid watering in summer to enjoy their lovely, pebble-like beauty for years.0
