How Often to Water String of Pearls: All You Need to Know
The String of Pearls is a delightful succulent that’s so much fun to grow. But it’s tricky to know how often to water String of Pearls, causing many plant owners to overwater or underwater this small houseplant.
Learn all you need to know about how often to water a String of Pearls and enjoy this gorgeous little plant’s unique look for many years to come.
About String of Pearls
The String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a small hanging plant with thin, trailing stems and sphere-shaped leaves. It’s a succulent, which means that its thick, round leaves store water, making it fairly drought-tolerant.
Native to South Africa, this attractive, compact indoor plant is mostly easy to care for, especially once you figure out its basic needs. It requires plenty of bright, indirect light, stable temperatures, and well-draining soil. These beauties are not only low-maintenance but also easy to propagate.
Mildly toxic to pets, Senecio rowleyanus should be kept out of their reach, which isn’t too difficult, as it grows very well in hanging pots. The String of Pearls symbolizes wealth, good fortune, and abundance, and is believed to attract good fortune in Feng Shui.
So, how often should a String of Pearls be watered? Find out in our comprehensive String of Pearls watering guide below.
How Often Should I Water My Indoor String of Pearls?
Watering your String of Pearls correctly isn’t only about sticking to the right watering schedule. This plant’s watering needs vary throughout the year.
When to Water String of Pearls
Water your String of Pearls when the top 3-5 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Depending on the season, location, and amount of sunlight it gets, you may need to water every 10 days or wait for 2-3 weeks.
Morning is the best time for watering String of Pearls, as water has time to evaporate by evening, and the roots don’t stay wet too long, which can lead to root rot. Remember that in warmer climates or during hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently, whereas less water is required in winter.
Adjust the String of Pearls watering schedule according to the amount of warmth and light your plant receives. If you’re growing it outside on a well-lit balcony, the soil may dry much quicker than it would indoors near a northern window. Plants in pots will also require more frequent watering than those growing in the soil in the garden.
How Much Water Do You Give a String of Pearls?
Water your String of Pearls thoroughly to ensure all the roots are hydrated. Let any excess water drain. Never allow your plant to sit in water, as overwatering String of Pearls will lead to root rot.
How to Water String of Pearls the Right Way
Enough water at the right time will ensure lush growth and long strands of plump green pearls. What is the best way to water String of Pearls?
Before you start watering, always check the soil’s moisture level. Probe the soil with your finger to see if the top inches are dry, or use a moisture meter.
Should You Water String of Pearls From the Top or Bottom?
Depending on the pot and size of your plant, you can either water from the top or from the bottom. Both methods have their advantages. Bottom watering String of Pearls is preferred because it prevents water from staying on the leaves and causing leaf spot, other fungal issues, or root rot.
- Bottom watering: Submerge the pot with your String of Pearls in water for 20-30 minutes. Then let the water drain and return it to its decorative pot.
- Watering from the top: Water from above using a watering can with a narrow snout. Avoid getting the leaves wet. This watering method is great if you haven’t watered for a while.
Common Problems With String of Pearls: Overwatering vs. Underwatering
Incorrect watering is the most common issue with String of Pearls. So, how do you tell if String of Pearls are underwatered or overwatered?
What Does an Overwatered String of Pearls Look Like?
You’ve watered consistently and are now wondering, “Why is my String of Pearls dying after watering?” Looks like you’ve overwatered your plant. Here’s how to tell:
- Flattened, colorless ‘pearls’
- Blackening, mushy stems
- The ‘pearls’ feel squishy when touched
- The soil feels soggy
How to Revive an Overwatered String of Pearls
Wondering how to fix an overwatered String of Pearls? Move your plant into bright (but not direct) sunlight and refrain from watering until the soil dries out. Prevent an overwatered String of Pearls from dying by repotting it. Cut away any rotting roots and use fresh, well-draining soil.
How to Tell If a String of Pearls Is Underwatered
What do dehydrated String of Pearls look like? The round leaves of an underwatered String of Pearls will lose their cute spherical shape. Here’s how to tell if a String of Pearls needs water:
- The ‘pearls’ look wrinkled and feel flat and dry to the touch
- The light stripe on the side of each ‘pearl’ is almost invisible
- The soil feels parched
How Do I Bring My String of Pearls Back to Life?
Soak your plant in a container with water, so it can absorb all the water it needs. You may need to water from the top as well. Let the water drain and wait until the top inches dry before watering.
Explore More Drought-Tolerant Plants
String of Pearls Watering: FAQs
Q: How long can a String of Pearls go without water?
A: A String of Pearls plant can easily go without water for 2-3 weeks in normal conditions.
Q: How often should I mist a String of Pearls?
A: Never mist your String of Pearls, as this can lead to root rot and leaf issues. This plant grows best in low to average humidity.
Q: Can you submerge a String of Pearls in water?
A: Yes, it’s called bottom watering, and it can be a very efficient method of watering, as it prevents the leaves from getting wet.
Q: Where is the best place to put a String of Pearls?
A: An east-facing or south-facing window is perfect for your String of Pearls. You can grow it in a hanging basket.
Q: Do String of Pearls like deep pots?
A: No, String or Pearls have a shallow root system and do best in shallow pots.
Conclusion
Watering String of Pearls succulents correctly isn’t difficult. This plant is fairly drought-tolerant, and it’s better to water less frequently than too often. Watch for the signs of overwatering and underwatering to adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Combine your String of Pearls with other small plants, like the lucky Jade Plant or the adorable Hoya Heart, for a fun display.
