Classified as a succulent, string of pearls (Curio rowleyanus) is a plant that grows small delicate leaves in the shape of a sphere. Gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike enjoy this style of plant for its unique leaf shape and the way it grows. It's draping vines cascade down its container adding a stylish touch to any space.

Of course, because of its popularity, you may be curious about how to easily propagate your string of pearls plant. In this guide, follow along and propagate your plant with these steps and techniques.

Tools You'll Need

String of pearls succulent plant

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In order to propagate string of pearls, you will need the following tools.

  • String of pearls plant
  • High-quality potting soil
  • Perlite
  • Planting pots
  • Gardening shears
  • Watering can

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Propagate String of Pearls

Person holding a string of pearls plant

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To start off, you will need to understand the two basic ways to propagate string of pearls plants. The most successful way to propagate this plant, and it's succulents friends, is through stem and leaf cuttings, or by dividing the plant.

Propagate by Stem or Leaf Cuttings

Propagating the plant by stem or leaf cuttings is the most successful way to clone string of pearls. The best time to propagate or repot your plant is during the springtime.

Step One - Cut the Leaves or Stems

Carefully cut a few healthy leaves from the main plant using sharp gardening shears. If you choose to propagate using stem cuttings, cut a section three to four inches long from the main stem area. Make sure to remove any lower leaves from the stem if necessary to make room for planting

Step Two - Allow Cuttings to Air Dry

After cutting the leaves or stems with a clean pair of shears, they'll need some time to air dry and callus over the open cut. Leave your cuttings on a dry surface for up to seven days, or until the cut area dries.

Step Three - Place Cuttings in Soil

Repot cuttings into a container with high-quality potting soil designed specifically for cacti or succulents. Or, use one that is one part potting soil to one part perlite.

Make sure you do not bury the leaf or stem cutting too deep in the soil. Remember to lightly pat down the soil, securing the piece.

Step Four - Water and Be Patient

Last but not least, water the cuttings and be patient. Place your new plant containers in a bright, sunny location by a window. It can take up to a month for the new cuttings to further develop and build roots. After a few months of growth, repot your string of pearls plant into a larger container so it continues to grow.

Dividing String of Pearls

string of pearls in container

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If you want to have multiple string of pearls plants, you can also easily propagate the plant by division. Dividing the plant allows you to have multiple plants growing at once, and is even a great way to make your own gifts for family and friends.

Step One - Divide the Plant

To divide your string of pearls plant, you will want to remove it from its current container. Make sure to be careful when doing this so that you don't disturb the roots of the plant.

Step Two - Separate the Plant

After removing it from the container carefully, divide the plant into two or three parts. You can do this by separating the roots with your fingers gently, or using gardening shears to cut if needed.

Step Three - Plant Into Soil

Place the new plant divisions into their own individual containers with high-quality potting soil for cacti or succulents.

Step Four - Water the Plant

Water the plants thoroughly in their new containers and place them in a bright, sunny location.

Once you have separated your string of pearls into their new homes, the plant will continue to grow and thrive. This is a simple way to have multiple plants that you can place around the house or share with others!

Now you have to give them the proper care to watch them grow healthy and strong.

Caring for String of Pearls

string of pearls cascading down the side of container

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String of pearls originates from the southwest region of South Africa. This type of plant is classified as a succulent however, they require more water than most succulents.

Water

Check on your plant often to ensure it has adequate water by testing the top few inches of soil. If the soil is dry to the touch, water the plant but do not overwater. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out before watering it again.

It's important to note that like succulents, the string of pearl is drought tolerant, storing water in it's globe shaped leaves. But, this doesn't mean you should neglect it by any means. Overwatering is the number one reason string of pearl plants fail. Younger plants will need more water then established plants but watering them once every 10 to 14 days should suffice.

Temperature

The ideal temperature for growing string of pearls is between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant does not tolerate frost, so it is important to place your plant indoors in a spot away from drafts like air conditioners and vents. If you are growing the plant outside, make sure to bring it inside before the temperature drops; They don't like it to dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Placement

String of pearls like full sun and grow best with at least six hours or more of sunlight a day. However, the plant can tolerate some shade as well. It typically blooms in the summer months and can produce gorgeous white flowers during this time.

Don't be alarmed if you experience limited growth on your string of pearls in the winter, this is completely normal.

Pearl-fect!

Welcome this green waterfall into your space and give it a proper home in a hanging planter by a bright window! The beauty of the string of pearls plant will not leave you disappointed. Just remember, this plant is toxic! Keep it out of reach of your pets and children.

Have you tried to propagate string of pearls plants before? If so, leave a comment down below with your experience!