underwatering and String Of Pearls
Quick answer
If underwatering is what's going on with your String Of Pearls, the most likely cause is: String of Pearls owners often overwater because they mistake any wrinkling for thirst. True thirst occurs when the plant uses its stored water, causing the translucent epidermal windows (slits) to close and become opaque.
Start here:
- 1. Inspect the epidermal windows (slits) on the pearls. If they are narrow and opaque, the plant is truly thirsty.
- 2. If pearls are wrinkly but the windows are wide and translucent, the plant has plenty of water and might be suffering from root rot.
Why underwatering happens to String Of Pearls
Curio rowleyanus
String of Pearls owners often overwater because they mistake any wrinkling for thirst. True thirst occurs when the plant uses its stored water, causing the translucent epidermal windows (slits) to close and become opaque.
How to correct underwatering on String Of Pearls
- 1
Inspect the epidermal windows (slits) on the pearls. If they are narrow and opaque, the plant is truly thirsty.
- 2
If pearls are wrinkly but the windows are wide and translucent, the plant has plenty of water and might be suffering from root rot.
- 3
Bottom-water for 15-30 minutes to ensure full soil saturation without wetting the pearls.
Keep underwatering from repeating on this String Of Pearls
Water only when windows close AND soil is bone-dry. Use porous terracotta pots and a mix with 50%+ perlite.