The String of Dolphins plant, known for its unique dolphin-shaped leaves trailing from stems, is a beloved succulent. Providing the correct light is paramount for its healthy growth and to preserve its characteristic “leaping dolphin” foliage.
Ideal Light Environment
The String of Dolphins thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat. This means placing the plant where it receives ample brightness without direct, harsh sun exposure. For indoor cultivation, a spot near a south-facing window that provides filtered sunlight for several hours daily is ideal. East or west-facing windows can also work well, especially if the plant is positioned a few feet away from the glass to prevent intense, direct light from reaching it.
For optimal health, the String of Dolphins needs at least 6 hours of light per day. While it appreciates bright conditions, direct midday sun can be harmful, causing leaf damage or scorching. The plant can adapt to slightly lower light levels, but consistent very low light conditions are not suitable for its long-term well-being.
Diagnosing Light Problems
Observing your String of Dolphins plant can reveal whether it is receiving too much or too little light. When exposed to excessive light, especially direct sunlight, the leaves may turn yellow or brown, indicating sunburn. This can also manifest as scorched spots or a bleached appearance. In severe cases, growth can become stunted.
Conversely, insufficient light causes the plant to stretch and appear “leggy,” with elongated stems and sparse, dull leaves. The characteristic dolphin shape of the leaves might also become less pronounced or flatten out. If the plant is not receiving enough light, it cannot photosynthesize effectively, leading to weak growth and potentially shriveling leaves. Recognizing these signs allows for timely adjustments to the plant’s environment.
Achieving Optimal Light
Strategic placement within your home is important for ideal light. Placing the plant near a south-facing window is often recommended for maximum bright, indirect light exposure. If a south-facing window is not an option, a west-facing window can also be suitable, provided the plant is positioned away from the most intense afternoon sun. You can also use sheer curtains to diffuse strong sunlight.
Regularly rotating the plant helps ensure that all sides receive even light exposure, promoting balanced growth. If natural light is limited, especially during darker months, supplemental lighting with LED grow lights can be beneficial. Full-spectrum white LEDs are a good choice as they provide the necessary light wavelengths without excessive heat. During winter, when daylight hours are shorter, increasing the duration of supplemental lighting can compensate for reduced natural light. Conversely, during spring and summer, natural light levels increase, so artificial lighting may need to be reduced or adjusted to prevent overexposure.