The String of Pearls plant, scientifically known as Senecio rowleyanus, is a popular succulent admired for its unique, bead-like foliage. Proper watering practices are fundamental to its well-being. While generally drought-tolerant, underwatering is a frequent issue that can compromise the plant’s health.
Recognizing the Signs of Underwatering
A healthy String of Pearls plant features plump, firm, spherical leaves that feel full to the touch. When underwatered, these pearls appear shriveled, flat, or deflated, losing their rounded shape.
The pearls may also develop a wrinkled or sunken appearance. Beyond the foliage, the plant’s stems can become dry and brittle, sometimes exhibiting a browning discoloration.
Common Causes of Underwatering
Several factors can contribute to a String of Pearls plant becoming underwatered, often stemming from watering habits or environmental conditions. Infrequent watering is a common culprit, where the plant does not receive water often enough. Using a pot that is disproportionately large can also lead to underwatering, as the extensive soil volume dries out slowly, delaying subsequent waterings.
Soil mixes that drain too quickly might not retain sufficient moisture for the plant to absorb. Highly porous pot materials, such as unglazed terracotta, can wick away water from the soil at an accelerated rate. Environmental elements like high temperatures or low humidity also increase water evaporation and transpiration, increasing the plant’s water requirements.
Reviving Your Underwatered Plant
To revive an underwatered String of Pearls, thorough rehydration is necessary. Bottom watering is an effective method: place the potted plant in a tray or sink with a few inches of water. This allows the plant to absorb water upwards through its drainage holes until the topsoil feels moist.
Alternatively, top water by slowly pouring water onto the soil surface until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Before either method, check the soil moisture level to confirm dryness. Ensure the entire root ball and soil are thoroughly saturated.
Preventing Future Underwatering
Establishing a consistent watering routine is important for preventing future underwatering. Water the String of Pearls when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. The choice of pot size and material also influences water retention; unglazed terracotta pots can dry out faster than plastic or glazed ceramic options.
Using a well-draining succulent-specific soil mix is important, as it provides adequate aeration while retaining some moisture. Consider how environmental factors such as light intensity, temperature, and humidity affect the plant’s water needs. Plants in brighter, warmer environments require more frequent watering than those in cooler, shadier spots.
Distinguishing from Overwatering
Accurately diagnosing the plant’s issue is important, as some symptoms of underwatering can be mistaken for overwatering. An overwatered String of Pearls typically presents with mushy, yellowing, or translucent pearls that feel soft. The stems can also turn black and feel rotten, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor from the soil. In contrast, an underwatered plant features shriveled, dry, and brittle pearls and stems.