The String of Buttons plant (Crassula perforata) is a popular succulent known for its distinctive appearance, featuring stacked, button-like leaves that spiral around its stems. Its trailing growth makes it well-suited for hanging baskets or cascading from shelves. Its attractive form and straightforward care make it suitable even for new succulent owners.
Essential Care Requirements
Providing the right environmental conditions is important for your String of Buttons plant’s health.
Light
String of Buttons thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it near a south or west-facing window indoors typically provides sufficient light. While it appreciates abundant light, direct afternoon sun, especially during warmer months, can scorch its leaves. Insufficient light often results in a stretched, leggy appearance and a loss of the leaves’ distinctive rosy or reddish edges, which become more pronounced with ample light.
Watering
Proper watering is important for succulents like the String of Buttons to prevent root rot. It is best to employ the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. To check soil moisture, insert your finger one to two inches deep; if it feels dry, it is time to water. When watering, ensure water thoroughly drains from the pot’s bottom to prevent standing water. String of Buttons stores water in its fleshy leaves, making it drought-tolerant and more forgiving of underwatering than overwatering.
Soil
Well-draining soil is necessary for Crassula perforata to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is ideal, as these formulations are designed for rapid drainage. If using regular potting soil, amending it with materials like perlite or pumice (at a 2:1 ratio) significantly improves drainage. The plant is not overly particular about pH levels but generally prefers slightly acidic conditions.
Temperature and Humidity
String of Buttons prefers temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C and 29°C), typical for indoor households. It is sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which can cause damage or death. If grown outdoors in colder climates, it is important to bring the plant inside before temperatures drop. This succulent thrives in dry air and tolerates normal indoor humidity levels well.
Fertilizing
String of Buttons plants are not heavy feeders and generally require minimal fertilization. During its active growing season (typically spring and summer), a diluted, balanced liquid succulent fertilizer can be applied every few weeks. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive, weak growth or even nutrient burn. It is important to avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period in winter.
Propagating String of Buttons
Propagating String of Buttons is straightforward, primarily through stem cuttings. To propagate, select a healthy stem and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut just below a leaf node. Allow the cut end to callus (dry and heal) for a few days to a week to prevent rot when planted. Once callused, the cutting can be placed directly into well-draining succulent soil, or rooted in water until small roots develop before transplanting to soil. For soil propagation, keep the soil slightly moist until new roots establish, then revert to the typical watering schedule.
Repotting String of Buttons
Repotting String of Buttons is typically needed when the plant becomes root-bound or soil quality degrades. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes or the plant appearing too large for its current container. Repotting is best done during the plant’s active growing season, such as spring or early summer, to minimize stress. Choose a pot slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. When repotting, gently remove the plant, shake off old soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining succulent mix.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
While generally resilient, String of Buttons can encounter common issues. Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to mushy stems and root rot, preventable by allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Insufficient light can cause etiolation, where stems stretch and leaves become sparse as the plant seeks more light. Moving the plant to a brighter location can correct this. Common succulent pests like mealybugs may occasionally appear; these can be addressed by gently wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.