Poorly plant syndrome

Root rot

Don’t let your new plant become a candidate for poorly plant syndrome. If your plant receives too much water, or is kept in a non-draining container, or even in a soil not suited to your semi-succulent it will quickly experience root rot. You may also find the soil contains traces of mould in the form of white patches. Root rot also occurs when propagating in water if the cuttings are left in water for too long – you will find a mush-like substance form around your plant stem. There is no treatment for root rot, but if you take note of the over-watering and under-watering tips below, this can certainly be avoided.

Over-watering

Drainage holes are essential to avoid over-watering. You will be able to see if your plant is receiving too much water as its leaves will swell. On a String of Pearls the pea-shaped leaves will look very full, and on occasion will split. The best way to check if your plant needs watering is to feel the soil at the top of pot, near to the roots. Never leave these semi-succulents standing in water and avoid watering from the base of the pot. You will also find that pots made of terracotta are friends with semi-succulents as they help to keep the temperature within the soil just right. Alternatively, we recommend you house your plant in a container with adequate drainage holes, then place this within a more decorative display receptacle. 

Sunburn / under-watering

All of our string varieties like lots of natural light, however be careful not to site your plant in full sun for too long, especially if they are not sufficiently watered. What you will find is the leaves will begin to curl, die and fall off. The soil will be dry to touch and will not provide your plant with the required nutrients. Plants in need of water quickly shrivel up as shown in the image. Please note no plant was harmed and with a quick period of rehydration this String of Beads returned to its usual happy self.

Life expectancy

All of the semi-succulents featured on this site will naturally slow their growth after approximately five years. One easy way to prolong the life expectancy of your plant, is to ensure you keep propagating new stems into the pot alongside the original roots, or instead transfer cuttings to new containers. That way your plant will continue to flourish and not be a candidate for poorly plant syndrome.

Soil change

You may find the nutrients in the soil stop being effective, so it may be useful to repot your plant every one to two years. This will then provide you with an opportunity to check if the pot size is still adequate for the roots. Trailing semi-succulents do not have very large roots and will thrive in a pot just bigger than the roots. Ensure you use a soil specially formulated for semi-succulents and cacti, as this contains materials that help soak up excessive moisture.