The String of Dolphins ( Curio peregrinus, formerly Senecio peregrinus) is a popular succulent known for its distinctive leaves that resemble leaping dolphins. With its cascading vines, it’s a favorite for hanging baskets and shelves. Repotting is an important part of its care, providing fresh nutrients and room for healthy development.
When to Repot String of Dolphins
Several indicators suggest a String of Dolphins plant needs repotting. Roots emerging from drainage holes signal the plant is root-bound. Stunted growth or a general decline in vigor can also indicate depleted nutrients or compacted soil, hindering proper root function. If the plant appears top-heavy and unstable, it’s time for a larger home. Repotting is best done during the plant’s active growing season, in spring or early summer, allowing it to recover quickly. A guideline is to repot every two to three years to refresh the potting medium and accommodate growth.
Preparing for Repotting
Before repotting, gather the necessary materials. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, perhaps one size up, to prevent overwatering. Terracotta pots are recommended as their porous nature helps absorb excess soil moisture, promoting better drainage. Adequate drainage holes prevent waterlogging and root rot.
The appropriate soil mix is equally important. String of Dolphins thrives in well-draining conditions. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is ideal, or create your own by combining two parts potting soil with one part perlite or pumice and one part coarse sand. This blend ensures excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture. Have tools like gloves, a small trowel, and clean pruning shears ready.
Step-by-Step Repotting Process
To prepare your String of Dolphins for repotting, water the plant thoroughly about 24 hours beforehand. This reduces transplant shock and makes removal easier. Gently remove the plant from its old container. Tilt the pot sideways and carefully tap the bottom and sides to encourage it to slide out, minimizing damage. If firmly rooted, you may need to carefully cut down one side of the grower pot to lift out the root system.
Once out, inspect the root ball. Gently loosen any tightly packed roots. If roots are thick and tangled, trim about an inch or carefully slice through them with a clean, sharp knife to encourage new growth. Add a layer of well-draining succulent mix to the bottom quarter of the new pot. A thin layer of grit can be added for enhanced drainage.
Carefully position the plant in the center of the new pot, ensuring it sits at the same depth as before. Gently drape the delicate dolphin strands onto the soil to protect them. Add more soil around the root ball, lightly shaking and tapping the pot to settle the medium and fill air pockets. The top ridge of the pot should remain above the soil line to prevent water runoff. Once the soil is in place, gently unfold the stems, allowing them to trail gracefully.
After Repotting Care
After repotting your String of Dolphins, provide specific care to help it recover. Avoid watering immediately; instead, wait a few days before the first watering. This allows minor root damage to heal and reduces root rot risk from excess moisture in disturbed soil. When you do water, ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings, as succulents are sensitive to overwatering.
Place the repotted plant in bright, indirect light. Direct, harsh sunlight immediately after repotting can stress the plant, potentially causing sunburn. A south-facing window with filtered light or an east-facing window is ideal. Refrain from fertilizing right away; allow it to stabilize for at least a month before introducing nutrients. This adjustment period helps minimize “repotting shock,” a temporary stress response that can manifest as wilting or shriveling leaves.
Troubleshooting Repotting Issues
Even with careful repotting, a String of Dolphins might show signs of stress or “transplant shock.” Symptoms include temporary wilting, shriveling, or drooping leaves. If these issues occur, ensure the plant is in a stable environment with consistent temperatures, ideally between 65-80°F, and continues to receive bright, indirect light. Avoid moving the plant frequently during this recovery period.
Overwatering in the new, larger pot is a common post-repotting problem, leading to root rot. If the soil remains consistently damp, allow it to dry out thoroughly before watering again. Conversely, shriveling leaves can indicate underwatering; check soil moisture by inserting your finger about an inch deep. Inadequate light can also cause weak growth and shriveling, so confirm the plant receives sufficient indirect illumination. Adjusting watering frequency and light exposure will help the plant recover and thrive.