Living stones are fascinating plants that have the ability to multiply on their own. They do this by growing new plants from their existing foliage, resulting in a cluster of plants in one container. However, if left unattended, they can quickly overtake the pot and become overcrowded. Therefore, it is important to understand how to propagate them manually to maintain their growth and prevent them from becoming too crowded.
The best time to propagate living stones is in the spring when they are actively growing. This is when they are most likely to establish themselves successfully in a new container. To begin the propagation process, gently remove the entire cluster of living stones from its pot. Be careful not to damage the plants or their delicate root systems.
Once you have removed the cluster, you can divide it into smaller sections. Look for natural separations or gaps between the plants and use a sharp, clean knife or pair of scissors to carefully separate them. Each section should have a good amount of foliage and roots attached to ensure its survival.
Once you have divided the cluster, you can replant the individual sections into their own containers. Choose pots that are slightly larger than the size of each section to allow for growth. Fill the pots with a well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent potting mix, to ensure proper drainage.
Gently place each section into its new pot, ensuring that the roots are spread out and covered with soil. Press the soil lightly around the base of the plants to secure them in place. Water the newly planted sections lightly, being careful not to overwater as living stones are prone to rot if the soil is too wet.
After replanting, it is important to provide the newly divided living stones with the proper care to ensure their successful growth. Place the pots in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause sunburn and damage the plants.
Water the living stones sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is important to find a balance and not keep the soil overly moist. Additionally, avoid misting the plants as this can also increase the risk of rot.
As the newly divided living stones begin to grow and establish themselves, they will gradually fill out their pots. Over time, they may require further division to prevent overcrowding. By regularly monitoring their growth and propagating them as needed, you can ensure that your living stones continue to thrive and multiply in a controlled manner.
Living stones have the remarkable ability to multiply on their own by growing new plants from their existing foliage. However, to prevent them from overtaking their pots and becoming overcrowded, manual propagation through division is necessary. By dividing the cluster of plants in the spring, replanting them in new containers, and providing them with the proper care, you can ensure the successful growth and multiplication of your living stones.
