String of pearls might look delicate, but with the right care, it’s one of the easiest plants to grow and keep happy. I remember the first time I brought one home—I was a little nervous, but it quickly became one of my favorites.
It loves bright light, a gentle watering routine, and just a bit of attention now and then. Once you get the hang of it, those trailing strands grow like crazy.
Let’s get into the simple tips that’ll keep your string of pearls thriving and looking gorgeous!
1. Lighting Requirements
Bright indirect light makes these beauties happiest. Too little light causes leggy growth with fewer pearls, while direct sun can scorch those delicate green beads.
Place your plant near a window with morning sun or filtered light throughout the day. Eastern or western exposures typically work best for creating that perfect balance these succulents crave.
2. Watering Schedule
Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. These drought-tolerant succulents store water in their round leaves and quickly rot when overwatered.
During growing season (spring and summer), water every 2-3 weeks. In winter, cut back to once monthly or less. Always check soil dryness with your finger before adding any moisture.
3. Soil Selection
Fast-draining soil prevents the dreaded root rot that can quickly kill your pearls. Regular potting soil holds too much moisture for these desert natives.
Mix cactus soil with extra perlite or pumice for the perfect growing medium. The ideal ratio is about 2 parts cactus mix to 1 part drainage material, creating those quick-drying conditions these plants love.
4. Container Choice
Shallow containers work better than deep pots since string of pearls have shallow root systems. The extra soil in deep pots stays wet longer, increasing rot risk.
Choose pots with drainage holes – this is non-negotiable! Terracotta pots are particularly good choices as they wick away excess moisture through their porous sides, creating a healthier environment for your plant.
5. Temperature Needs
Keep your pearls between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during growing season. These South African natives enjoy warmth but can’t handle extreme heat or cold.
Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which can damage the plant. Avoid placing near drafty windows in winter or air conditioning vents in summer – sudden temperature changes stress these sensitive succulents.
6. Humidity Considerations
Average household humidity works perfectly fine. Unlike tropical houseplants, string of pearls prefer drier air that mimics their native environment.
Avoid misting these succulents – water droplets sitting on the pearls can cause rot or fungal issues. If your home is extremely dry, just place the pot on a pebble tray without letting it touch the water.
7. Fertilizing Strategy
Feed sparingly during spring and summer with diluted succulent fertilizer. Too much fertilizer causes weak growth that’s prone to breaking.
Apply at quarter-strength once a month during active growth periods. Stop feeding completely in fall and winter when growth naturally slows down – the plant is resting and doesn’t need the extra nutrients.
8. Pruning Methods
Regular trimming encourages fuller growth and prevents the leggy, sparse appearance that older plants develop. Use clean scissors to snip stems just above a pearl.
Don’t toss those cuttings! They’re perfect propagation material. Pruning is best done in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing and can quickly recover from the minor stress of cutting.
9. Propagation Techniques
Creating new plants couldn’t be easier! Snip 3-4 inch sections, remove pearls from the bottom inch, and let cuttings callus for 1-2 days.
Place callused ends directly into slightly moist soil, or lay entire strands on soil surface where they’ll root from multiple points. Keep soil barely moist until new growth appears, indicating successful rooting has occurred.
10. Pest Prevention
Mealybugs and spider mites occasionally bother these plants, hiding under pearls or at stem joints. Regular inspection makes catching problems early much easier.
Treat infestations with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab for spot treatment. For larger problems, insecticidal soap works well – just ensure it’s diluted properly to avoid damaging those delicate pearls.
11. Seasonal Care
Growth naturally slows in winter, so adjust your care routine accordingly. Reduce watering frequency and stop fertilizing until spring arrives.
Summer heat may require moving plants away from windows during intense afternoon sun. Spring is perfect for repotting, pruning, and propagation – take advantage of this vigorous growth period to shape your plant just how you want it.
12. Repotting Schedule
These plants rarely need frequent repotting – every 2-3 years is typically sufficient. Their shallow root systems don’t quickly outgrow containers like other houseplants might.
Choose containers just 1-2 inches larger than the current pot. Spring is the ideal time for this task, giving plants the entire growing season to establish in their new homes without the stress of winter dormancy.
13. Display Ideas
Hanging baskets showcase the cascading growth habit beautifully. The pearl strands can trail 2-3 feet when happy, creating a stunning visual display.
Shelf edges, plant stands, and macramé hangers all make excellent display options. For something unique, try planting in a wall-mounted pocket planter where the pearls can dramatically spill downward against the vertical surface.
14. Troubleshooting Problems
Shriveled pearls usually indicate underwatering, while mushy, translucent ones signal overwatering. Adjust your water schedule based on these visual cues your plant provides.
Leggy growth with wide spacing between pearls means insufficient light. Yellow pearls often indicate too much direct sun. Most problems can be corrected if caught early, so regular observation is your best prevention strategy.
15. Safety Considerations
All parts contain toxic compounds that can irritate skin and are harmful if ingested. Always wash hands after handling, and keep away from curious pets and children.
The milky sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Consider wearing thin gardening gloves when pruning or repotting if you’ve experienced reactions to other succulents or latex-producing plants.