Dealing with Root Rot in String of Pearls Succulents

String of pearls, also known by its scientific name Senecio rowleyanus, is a trailing succulent beloved for its spherical, bead-like leaves and gracefully cascading stems. However, despite its delicate beauty, it is prone to a common affliction – root rot. This article will explore the causes, signs, treatment and prevention of root rot in string of pearls.

What Causes Root Rot in String of Pearls?

There are a few key factors that can lead to root rot in string of pearls:

Overwatering

Excessive watering is the primary trigger for root rot in string of pearls. As succulents adapted to arid environments their roots are not designed to handle constantly wet conditions. Too much moisture prevents oxygen from reaching the roots causing them to suffocate and decay.

Poor Drainage

Inadequate drainage can also lead to root rot. If water cannot properly drain away, it stagnates around the roots leading to decay. Using a pot without drainage holes or planting in heavy, compacted soil can cause poor drainage.

Overfeeding

While string of pearls need little fertilization, overfeeding can still cause root rot. Excess salts from fertilizers accumulate in the soil, burning and damaging the delicate roots.

Cold Temperatures

If string of pearls experience extended periods below 50°F (10°C), the roots can weaken and become vulnerable to rot.

Signs and Symptoms of Root Rot

Watch for these indications that root rot may be affecting your string of pearls

• Slowed or stunted growth
• Soft, mushy stems
• Leaves turning yellow or brown
• Drooping or wrinkled leaves
• Foul odor from the soil
• White fungal growth on roots or lower stems

How to Treat Root Rot in String of Pearls

If you catch root rot early, it may be possible to save your plant. Here are some treatment tips:

• Unpot the plant and wash off the soil to inspect the roots. Remove any obviously rotten or dead roots.

• Repot in fresh, sterile succulent soil mixed with perlite or pumice to improve drainage. Discard old soil which may contain pathogens.

• Withhold watering until the soil is completely dry. This prevents further spread of rot.

• Move to a warmer location of 65-75°F (18-24°C) to encourage new root growth.

• Remove any dead or dying stem sections to halt the spread of rot.

• Apply a fungicide according to package instructions if fungal growth is present.

• Increase sunlight exposure to help dry out the soil faster. Avoid direct hot sunlight.

• Monitor closely and adjust watering to allow the soil to thoroughly dry out between waterings.

How to Prevent Root Rot

The key to avoiding root rot is proper watering technique:

• Plant in a porous, well-draining soil mix. Add perlite or pumice to improve drainage.

• Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

• Water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Stick a finger in to check.

• Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess water.

• Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

• Avoid frequent, small sips of water which keep soil perpetually damp.

• Water less in winter when growth slows.

• Keep in warm conditions between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

• Provide plenty of sunlight without direct hot midday sun.

• Refrain from overfeeding, especially during winter dormancy.

• Monitor soil moisture frequently and adjust watering as needed.

How to Water String of Pearls

As succulents, string of pearls need a careful balance of watering. Use these tips to keep your plants hydrated without risking rot:

• Water only when topsoil is dry to the touch. Insert your finger up to the second knuckle to check moisture.

• In summer, they may need watering every 7-10 days if soil is drying rapidly. In winter, stretch to every 3-4 weeks.

• Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s base. Discard any water in saucers.

• Allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Test with your finger.

• During active growth, water when leaves start to wrinkle slightly from dehydration.

• Avoid misting leaves, which can trigger rot – focus water at the soil.

• If leaves are plump, wait before watering again even if soil is dry.

Potting Mix for String of Pearls

Use a fast draining potting mix to grow healthy string of pearls. Look for:

• A cactus & succulent soil blend

• Low proportion (10-20%) of organic material

• Coarse materials like perlite, pumice, gravel or sand

• No water retention additives like peat or moss

You can make your own mix by combining 2 parts potting soil with 1 part perlite or pumice. For outdoor plants, mix soil with equal parts sand or gravel instead. Re-pot every 2-3 years as organic components in soil break down.

Ideal Light Conditions

String of pearls flourish best in bright, indirect light. Insufficient light causes weak, stretched growth while too much direct sun results in scorched leaves. Follow these light guidelines:

• Place in east or west facing windows where they get 4-6 hours of gentle sunlight daily.

• South facing exposures need sheer curtains or shade cloth to filter intense sunlight.

• Rotate plants regularly so all sides receive equitable light exposure.

• Provide supplemental lighting with grow lights if indoor light is inadequate. Position 6-12 inches above plants.

• Outdoor plants appreciate morning sun or light afternoon shade. Avoid hot, direct midday sun.

• Leaves will show red-pink stress colors if exposed to excessive light. Move to a shadier spot.

Optimal Temperature Range

String of pearls thrive best in warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Cooler or hotter conditions can stress plants and increase problems like rot.

• Maintain indoor temperatures above 60°F (15°C) which can be too cool for string of pearls. Move away from drafty windows in winter.

• Avoid placing plants near heat sources like appliances or heating vents which desiccate the air.

• Outdoor string of pearls appreciate heat, but provide shade in peak summer to prevent scorching.

• If temperatures exceed 85°F (29°C), move plants to cooler areas and increase air circulation with fans.

• During winter dormancy, temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) are tolerated but growth is minimal below 60°F (15°C).

Humidity Preferences

String of pearls prefers relatively dry air of 40-60% humidity. Higher humidity encourages rot, fungal diseases and pest infestations.

• Monitor humidity near plants with a hygrometer. Ideal range is 40-60%

• Use fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning to lower high humidity.

• Avoid misting string of pearls leaves which can lead to rot in crevices.

• Ensure sufficient air circulation around plants.

• Water early in the day so leaves dry completely before nighttime.

• Move outdoor plants under cover if humidity remains above 65% for multiple days.

By understanding what causes string of pearls root rot and how to prevent it through proper care, you can keep your plants healthy and flourishing. Pay close attention to their watering, drainage, light and temperature needs. With the right conditions, these succulents will reward you with their trailing beauty for years to come.