Want to know how to grow the prettiest hanging plant ever? String of Pearls plants are my absolute favorite, and today I’m sharing everything you need to know to keep one happy!
Don’t worry – it’s easier than you think, and I’ll walk you through every step.
Light Requirements
You know what I love most about String of Pearls? They’re actually more forgiving than most of my other succulents when it comes to light!
While my other sun-loving plants throw a fit in lower light conditions, these pearls are surprisingly adaptable.
I’ve found that 4-6 hours of gentle morning sunshine makes them happiest, especially in my east-facing window.
During those scorching summer afternoons, I make sure to protect my pearls from intense direct sun – they can get sunburned just like we do!
Temperature Needs
Just like us, these dainty plants prefer comfortable room temperatures around 70-72 degrees.
I learned the hard way not to place them near drafty doors or heat vents – those temperature swings can really stress them out!
When winter rolls around, I bring my outdoor pearls inside before the first frost since they’re total wimps about freezing temperatures.
Here’s a little secret I discovered: keeping them slightly cooler (around 55-60 degrees) in winter actually encourages gorgeous spring blooms!
Soil & Potting
Soil Requirements
Let me tell you – using the right soil makes all the difference between thriving pearls and sad, rotting strings.
I swear by Espoma cactus mix – it drains quickly and keeps those delicate roots happy.
Whatever you do, avoid regular potting soil – I made that mistake once and nearly lost my favorite plant to root rot!
Container Selection
Terra cotta pots are my absolute go-to for String of Pearls.
Not only do they look adorable, but the porous material helps prevent overwatering by letting excess moisture escape.
I keep mine in a hanging basket above my reading nook, where those lovely strands can cascade down naturally.
Repotting Guidelines
Let me share a little secret about these precious plants – they’re totally fine being a bit root-bound!
I only repot mine when they’re either bursting at the seams or looking a little lackluster.
Here’s my foolproof method: I gently gather all those delicate strands on top of the pot (like gathering hair in a ponytail!) while I work my repotting magic.
Pro tip from my own plant-mama fails: When dealing with nursery pots, just cut the plastic away instead of pulling – trust me, your pearls will thank you!
Water & Fertilizer
Watering Care
Okay, confession time – I used to be terrible at watering these beauties until I figured out their rhythm!
During growing season (spring through fall), I keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy.
My weekly watering routine is simple: stick your finger in the soil, and if the top feels dry, it’s time for a drink!
Want to know my favorite plant-parent hack? When the pearls start looking a bit flat or wrinkly, that’s their way of saying “Hey, I’m thirsty!”
Fertilization
Y’all, feeding these babies is so much easier than I first thought!
I give mine a monthly dose of fertilizer during the growing season, and they absolutely flourish!
I use full-strength cactus fertilizer (ignore those half-strength recommendations – my pearls have been thriving with regular feeding!).
Flowering & Maintenance
Bloom Information
Get ready for the most magical surprise – these beauties can bloom!
Around late winter to early spring, my String of Pearls puts on the sweetest show with tiny white, brush-like flowers.
The best part? They smell like a dreamy mix of cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla – it’s absolutely heavenly!
Pruning
Don’t stress too much about pruning – these plants are super low-maintenance!
When I notice strings getting too long or scraggly, I just give them a little haircut with clean scissors.
Bonus tip: Pruning actually encourages fuller growth on top, making your plant even more gorgeous!
Propagation Methods
Spreading the plant love is my favorite part of growing String of Pearls!
You can either lay full stems across soil at the nodes (those little connection points) or stick 3-inch cuttings directly into the soil.
I love adding pruned pieces back to the original pot to fill in any sparse spots – it’s like giving your plant a free makeover!
Unique Features & Safety
Plant Characteristics
Here’s something cool – each pearl has a tiny clear stripe that acts like a window for photosynthesis!
It’s nature’s way of helping these clever plants soak up just the right amount of light.
Toxicity
Now for the serious part – we need to chat about safety, especially if you’ve got furry friends or little ones at home.
These pearls might look appetizing, but they’re toxic to cats, dogs, and children if ingested.
I keep mine up high on shelves or in hanging baskets where curious paws and hands can’t reach.
If you notice drooling, lethargy, or tummy troubles in your pets, it might be time for a vet visit.