String of Pearls / Beads
LIGHT TOLERANCE:
String of Pearls is a trailing succulent with cascading stems that bear adorable strings of pearl-shaped leaves. It is a favourite for hanging baskets and indoor plants, and they make for a delightful accent to any bright interior or patio. Given the trailing characteristics of the String of Pearls, it is advisable to either place it in a hanging basket or position it in a way that allows its abundant trailing stems to cascade downward, creating a lush curtain of green pearls.
LIGHT: String of Pearls prefers very bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it can receive bright, filtered sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, prolonged exposure may lead to leaf scorch or the plant discolouring to a reddish brown tone. Inadequate light may cause leggy growth, so ensure it gets enough light for compact growth.
WATER: Water String of Pearls sparingly. Allow the top couple of centimetres of the soil to dry out before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to let the soil dry between waterings. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, and reduce watering in the dormant season (autumn and winter).
SOIL: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix for String of Pearls. Alternatively, mix regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
FERTILISER: Fertilise String of Pearls sparingly during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half the recommended strength. Apply every 4-6 weeks. Avoid fertilising during the dormant season.
REPOTTING: if your plant out-grows its pot, re-pot in springtime.
COMMON ISSUES:
- Overwatering/underwatering: String of Pearls is susceptible to root rot and mushy pearls if overwatered. Remove any dead and mushy stems and leaves and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure proper drainage and allow the soil to dry between waterings. Flat, shrivelled pearls are a sign that the plant is too dry. Give your plant a good drink by soaking the plant in a container of water for 15 minutes and then allow it to drain well.
- Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can result in elongated, leggy stems. Provide adequate bright, top-down, indirect light to encourage compact growth. It may require you hanging your planter lower near a window, or placing it on a shelf that receives light over the top of the pot.
SPECIAL NOTES: String of Pearls is an excellent choice for hanging baskets, containers, or as a trailing element in succulent arrangements. Pruning can be done to maintain a more compact shape. Looping some branches back over the soil will allow new stems to anchor into the soil, supporting the growth of the plant, and preventing its crown from thinning, over time. The unique appearance of this succulent makes it a captivating addition to any succulent collection.
(Note: The information provided in this article is based on general guidelines for cultivating String of Pearls/Beads. Individual plant care may vary, so always observe your plant’s specific needs and adjust your care accordingly.)
