Caring for Your String of Smiles Plant
The String of Smiles, scientifically known as Ceropegia linearis subsp. woodii ‘String of Smiles’, is a charming trailing houseplant. Appreciated for its distinctive heart-shaped leaves and delicate vines, this cultivar often features striking variegation. Its cascading nature allows it to be beautifully displayed in hanging baskets or on shelves where its long stems can drape gracefully. Its relatively manageable care requirements make it a popular choice.
Light
Providing adequate light is important for a thriving String of Smiles plant. These plants flourish in bright, indirect light, such as near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window. Direct, harsh sunlight, especially midday, can scorch delicate leaves, causing a bleached or faded appearance. Conversely, insufficient light results in stretched, sparse growth with reduced variegation and smaller leaves.
Watering
Proper watering practices are important for your String of Smiles. This plant prefers a “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. To determine when to water, insert a finger about two inches into the soil; if dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot, while prolonged underwatering causes leaves to shrivel and become crispy.
Soil and Potting
The right soil mix and pot type contribute to optimal growth. A well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix is suitable, providing aeration and drainage. Amending a standard potting mix with perlite or coarse sand improves drainage. Terracotta pots are often recommended as their porous nature allows better air circulation and evaporates excess moisture, reducing root rot risk.
Temperature and Humidity
String of Smiles plants thrive in average household temperatures, ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 27 degrees Celsius). They are not cold tolerant and need protection from drafts, especially in winter, as sudden drops stress the plant. While these plants tolerate average indoor humidity, slightly higher humidity benefits lush growth. Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water increases localized humidity.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season, from spring through early fall, the String of Smiles benefits from occasional fertilization. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength, is applied every two to four weeks. During dormant winter months, when growth slows, fertilization is not necessary. Over-fertilization leads to salt buildup, potentially damaging roots.
Propagating String of Smiles
Propagating a String of Smiles plant is a straightforward process, allowing for new plants. Stem cuttings are the most common and effective method, with high success rates. This can be achieved through water propagation or direct planting into soil.
To prepare cuttings, select healthy stems at least 4-6 inches long, with several leaf nodes. Remove the bottom few leaves to expose nodes, where new roots emerge. For water propagation, place cuttings in water, submerging leafless nodes, changing water every few days. Roots form within weeks; transfer to soil once 1-2 inches long.
Alternatively, plant cuttings directly into a well-draining potting mix. Lay stems horizontally on soil, ensuring node contact with substrate, or gently pressing leafless nodes into soil. Maintain consistently moist, not waterlogged, soil during rooting. Placing the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light encourages root development.
Troubleshooting Common String of Smiles Issues
Addressing common issues helps keep your String of Smiles healthy. Observing changes in the plant’s appearance often indicates underlying environmental or care problems. Prompt identification and adjustment are important.
Yellowing or Wilting Leaves
Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering, depriving roots of oxygen and causing rot. Allowing soil to dry more thoroughly between waterings helps. Conversely, prolonged underwatering causes leaves to wilt and become crispy, needing a good soak. Consistent, appropriate moisture prevents both.
Mushy Stems
Mushy stems strongly indicate overwatering and potential root rot, where fungal pathogens attack roots in wet conditions. If noticed, reduce watering immediately and ensure adequate drainage. In severe cases, repotting into fresh, dry soil and removing affected roots may be necessary.
Lack of Growth or Variegation
A lack of new growth or diminished variegation, particularly the distinctive pink or silver patterns on the leaves, points to insufficient light. The plant may also appear leggy with long spaces between leaves if not receiving enough light. Moving your String of Smiles to a brighter location with more indirect light stimulates new growth and enhances coloration. Adequate, but not excessive, light maintains its aesthetic appeal.
Pest Infestations
While generally resilient, String of Smiles plants can encounter mealybugs or spider mites. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses on stems and leaf undersides; spider mites cause fine webbing and tiny specks on leaves. Regularly inspecting your plant helps detect infestations early. Treating with insecticidal soap or a diluted neem oil solution effectively manages these pests without harming the plant.
Is String of Smiles Toxic?
The String of Smiles plant (Ceropegia linearis subsp. woodii) is considered non-toxic to humans and pets. While severe poisoning is unlikely, consuming plant material might cause mild gastrointestinal upset (e.g., stomach irritation, vomiting) in sensitive individuals or animals. Keep houseplants out of reach of curious children and pets to prevent issues.