Growing string of pearls successfully from cuttings is easy and rewarding. With the proper care, you can establish strong and healthy plants that will produce lush greenery for years to come.
Keep reading to learn what steps to take and when to take them in order to ensure successful propagation of string of pearls.
Start With High-Quality String of Pearls Seeds or Cuttings.
When it comes time for propagation, start with the best materials. If you are using a cutting, always choose a healthy and properly sized stem from an existing string of pearls succulent plant. Most experts recommend taking cuttings from four to six inches in length.
If you plan to propagate your string of pearls from seeds, make sure to purchase seeds that come from a reliable source and are fresh and viable.
Provide a Sufficiently Warm Environment to Promote Growth.
To ensure that your string of pearls propagates properly, it’s essential to provide a sufficient amount of warmth. Keep in mind that too little light or too much shade can result in slow growth and poor health. Provide plenty of direct sunlight or use a grow light to supplement the existing light.
Optimum temperatures should be kept between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Additionally, find a well-draining pot filled with fertile soil to position your string of pearls plants for successful propagation.
Make Sure the Container Has Adequate Drainage Holes.
An important step in propagating your string of pearls plants is ensuring the container you are using has adequate drainage holes. This will help ensure the soil doesn’t become oversaturated and that the plant’s roots have access to oxygen and moisture.
Avoid placing your string of pearls outside unless the air temperature is above 55°F (13°C), as cold temperatures can stunt growth or even kill the plant.
Add Potting Mix, Substrate and Perlite as Needed to Promote Optimal Growth.
When growing string of pearls, use a potting mix that is light and airy with plenty of organic matter and good drainage. A combination of 1 part potting soil to 1 part perlite works well, too. Perlite helps the mix retain moisture while still allowing it to drain freely. You can also add sand to your mixture to enhance drainage or even charcoal in order to neutralize toxins in the soil.
Finally, add a small amount of slow-release fertilizer or an organic compost tea for additional nutrients throughout the growing season.
Water Regularly, but Do Not Overwater.
To ensure healthy and successful propagation of string of pearls, it’s important to give your plants just the right amount of water. Water until it runs from the bottom of the pot, then wait for the soil to dry out before watering again.
During hotter months, you may need to water more often than during cooler ones. Note that overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases, so make sure you find the perfect balance when it comes to watering your string of pearls.
How To Propagate String of Pearls in Water.
To propagate a string of pearls succulent in water, you can follow these steps:
- Cut a stem from the parent plant, making sure it has at least one node (a small bump on the stem where leaves can grow).
- Remove the bottom leaves and place the stem in a jar of water. Make sure the node is submerged in the water.
- Change the water regularly to prevent it from becoming stagnant, and place the jar in a bright, indirect light.
- In about 2 to 4 weeks, roots will start to form from the node, and new growth will start to sprout from the top.
- Once the roots are well-established, you can plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
Note: Not all succulents are able to be propagated in water, and some may rot if left in water for too long.
It’s always a good idea to research the specific type of succulent you are working with to make sure it’s suitable for water propagation.