Overwatering on string of pearls
What's Happening
Overwatering combined with insufficient light and poor drainage causes root rot in String of Pearls. Senecio rowleyanus is a succulent with thin, water-storing leaves that rot rapidly when soil remains moist for extended periods, leading to anaerobic conditions and fungal infection.
How to Fix It
- 1
1. Remove plant from wet soil and air dry stems for 2-3 days in a warm, airy location
- 2
2. Inspect and trim black, mushy, or shriveled stems with sterile tools
- 3
3. Check roots and remove any black, slimy, or friable root tissue
- 4
4. Repot in fast-draining mix (50/50 succulent soil + perlite), laying strands on soil surface
- 5
5. Withhold water for 2 weeks minimum; resume only when soil is bone-dry
What You'll Need
How to Prevent It
Use well-draining cactus mix with 50% perlite/pumice in terracotta pots with drainage holes. Water only when top 2-3 inches of soil are bone-dry (every 2-3 weeks indoors). Maintain bright indirect light (2000-4000 foot-candles) to promote healthy transpiration.