String of Pearls, or Curio rowleyanus, is a vining succulent from the Senecio family. Its foliage resembles little peas or pearls, making it a popular choice for plant lovers. If you’re wondering how to grow this beautiful plant successfully, here are some essential tips for a thriving String of Pearls:
Light
String of Pearls need a good amount of light to thrive. They do not do well in low-light environments and will flourish in bright, indirect light. If properly acclimated, they can also tolerate direct sunlight. When bringing your plant home, observe the conditions it was in at the store or ask the grower. For example, if the plant was sitting in a low-light area, avoid placing it in direct light immediately. If you plan to hang your String of Pearls, ensure that the top of the pot receives adequate sunlight, as well as the hanging foliage. Signs of insufficient light include elongated growth or leaf drop.
Soil
String of Pearls should be potted in a gritty mix with excellent drainage. A gritty mix has a lot of rocky, inorganic material like sand, gravel, or perlite. Avoid large pieces of bark or stone, as these can create air pockets that hinder root development. Maintaining a good balance of oxygen in the soil mix is crucial. We recommend our Tranquilo Farms Cacti and Succulent Soil—Free Potting Mix for optimal results.
Watering
When watering your String of Pearls, completely saturate the root ball. This typically involves letting water run through the drainage hole of the pot for a few minutes to ensure that all of the soil is hydrated. Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling. The frequency of watering will depend on your environment (humidity, warmth, and brightness). As a general guideline, we water our String of Pearls about once every two weeks for a 4” pot and about once every three weeks for a 6” pot. A good sign that your pearls need water is if they start to shrivel slightly, resembling raisins. Make sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Pot
String of Pearls have a shallow and fine root system, so they don’t need a deep pot. A pot that is too large can deprive the roots of sufficient oxygen and may cause them to rot. This plant thrives in a shallow, bowl-style planter that is wider than it is deep. While the material of the pot is less critical, terracotta is often preferred as it is breathable, which succulents enjoy.
Like any plant, String of Pearls have their preferred living conditions. They are relatively easy to care for as long as you understand their needs! These plants don’t require daily attention, making them a great choice for plant parents who like to give their plants space to settle in without excessive disturbance.
Feel free to share your experiences with String of Pearls in the comments or ask any questions you may have!
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