String of Things Care Guide

Light Requirements

• Ideal: Bright, indirect light to direct morning sun
  (They thrive near south or east-facing windows, or under grow lights.)
• Tolerates: Medium light, but growth slows and gaps may appear between leaves.
• Avoid: Prolonged low light or harsh afternoon sun.

Succulent types (pearls, dolphins, bananas) can handle more direct sun than non-succulent types (hearts, turtles).

Watering

• Succulent strings (pearls, dolphins, bananas):
  Let the soil dry completely between waterings. Water deeply, then drain.
• Semi-succulent/vining strings (hearts, turtles):
  Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Keep lightly moist but never soggy.

Overwatering is the #1 killer of string plants. Use a moisture meter or lift the pot to feel weight.

Warning signs:

• Mushy stems or black leaves = overwatering
• Wrinkling or shriveling = underwatering

Soil & Potting

• Use a well-draining soil mix tailored to the plant type:
• Succulent strings: Cactus mix + extra perlite or pumice
• Semi-succulent strings: Potting mix + perlite + a touch of orchid bark
• Always pot in containers with drainage holes
• Repot every 1–2 years or when leggy or rootbound

Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temp: 65–85°F (18–29°C)
• Avoid: Frost, cold drafts, or temps below 50°F
• Humidity: Average indoor humidity is fine for most species
  (String of Hearts and Turtles appreciate a touch more)

Good airflow helps prevent rot in denser cascades.

Fertilizer

• Feed during active growth (spring–summer) monthly with a diluted succulent or balanced houseplant fertilizer
• Do not overfeed—these plants are light feeders
• No need to fertilize in winter

Pruning & Maintenance

• Trim long or leggy stems to encourage fullness
• Dead leaves or stems should be snipped cleanly with sterilized scissors
• Rotate pots every few weeks for even trailing and sun exposure

Most "strings" can be tucked back into the soil to re-root and fill in bald spots!

Pests & Problems

Watch for:

• Mealybugs
• Spider mites
• Fungus gnats (usually from overwatering)

Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or beneficial nematodes to keep pests in check.

Toxicity

• String of Pearls, Bananas, Dolphins – mildly toxic if ingested
• String of Hearts, Turtles – considered non-toxic but still not edible

Propagation

• Easily propagated by stem cuttings!
• Lay a vine on moist soil or sphagnum moss and it will root from nodes
• Water rooting for pearls, dolphins, and hearts also works well
• Best time to propagate: Spring or early summer