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String of pearls · Curio rowleyanus

Why is my string of pearls drooping?

It is less common for this plant to droop, as it usually stays firm and upright when healthy. This symptom is typically caused by a lack of light or improper watering habits.

Check these first

  1. Check the light levels where the plant is hanging.
  2. Feel the pearls to see if they are firm or shriveled.
  3. Check the weight of the pot to see if the soil is very dry.

Likely causes

  1. Inadequate Light

    Possible

    How to tell: The stems look thin and weak, causing the strands to hang straight down without the usual plumpness. This happens when the plant is reaching for more light.

    What to do: Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight. If you do not have a bright window, consider using a grow light for 8 to 10 hours a day.

  2. Underwatering

    Possible

    How to tell: The stems look limp and the pearls appear wrinkled or deflated. This happens when the plant has exhausted its water storage.

    What to do: Soak the soil thoroughly until water drains out the bottom. Check the soil again in 14 days to see if it is time for another drink.

Find out what's wrong with your string of pearls

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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When to worry

If the stems are limp and the pearls are shriveled, the plant is in distress. If the plant is simply hanging down due to gravity, that is just its natural growth habit.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent bright, indirect light and stick to the 14 to 21 day watering cycle.

Keep your string of pearls healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Is it normal for the stems to hang down?
Yes, they are trailing plants and will naturally hang over the edge of the pot. Drooping refers to a limp, unhealthy appearance rather than the natural trailing growth.
Does my plant need fertilizer?
Only fertilize during the growing season in spring and summer. Use a balanced succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month.

More problems with String of pearls

Back to the String of pearls guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.