Why is it necessary to kill a succulent? Succulents don’t require much fertilizer. But, giving them light feeds in the spring or summer will encourage growth and keep them happy. The spring season is when your plant wakes up from its dormant phase and starts to show signs of growth. For healthy Lithop growth, compost is not required. Succulents are designed to thrive in environments that lack water, so it is important to water sparingly. Dormancy should mean that you need to water less often during winter. The rosettes of succulents will close tightly if they are exposed to too much sunlight.