Growing String of Pearls from Seeds – A Complete Guide

String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a unique trailing succulent that is easily recognized by its spherical, pea-shaped leaves. With its graceful cascading stems, this plant makes a beautiful addition to hanging baskets and container gardens. Though string of pearls is commonly propagated from cuttings, growing from seeds is also possible with a little patience.

An Overview of String of Pearls

Native to southwest Africa string of pearls is a robust grower that can gain 5-15 inches per year in ideal conditions. However it has a relatively short lifespan of only 3-5 years without propagation. The plant produces fragrant white blooms in summer but rarely flowers when kept indoors.

String of pearls prefers warm temperatures, sandy soil and bright light. It requires less water in winter when it goes dormant. While easy to care for it is toxic to humans and pets. Its cute round leaves and trailing stems make it perfect for hanging containers and mixed succulent plantings.

Starting String of Pearls from Seeds

Growing string of pearls from seeds is more challenging than taking cuttings, but it can be done. Here are some tips for successfully starting string of pearls from seed:

Obtaining Seeds

If you don’t already have access to string of pearls seeds, you can purchase them from online retailers like Amazon. Make sure the seeds look plump and healthy.

Germinating the Seeds

String of pearls seeds need consistent warmth to germinate. Maintain temperatures of 70-80°F. Sow seeds in a sterile seed starting mix and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist but not sopping wet.

Germination can take 14-28 days Thin seedlings to 1-2 inches apart once they sprout

Caring for Seedlings

Young string of pearls plants need bright light to prevent stretching. Give them several hours of direct morning sun or use a grow light. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, taking care not to overwater.

Feed every 2-3 weeks with a diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season. Repot annually in fast-draining soil. Seedlings may take a year or two to fill out and cascade.

Transplanting Outdoors

After all danger of frost has passed, harden off and transplant seedlings outdoors in zones 9-11. String of pearls prefers partial sun outdoors. Plant in sandy, well-draining soil. Take cuttings in late summer to overwinter plants indoors.

Tips for Growing String of Pearls from Seeds

• Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting to increase germination rate.

• Cover trays or pots with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to retain moisture during germination.

• Bottom heat from a heat mat or other source helps maintain optimal temperatures.

• Turn pots daily to prevent seedlings from stretching toward light on one side.

• Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of leaves into individual containers.

• Pinch back tips occasionally to encourage full, trailing growth habit.

Common Problems and Solutions

Growing string of pearls from seed can be tricky, but here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

Seeds failing to germinate: Ensure seeds are fresh and stored properly. Try scarifying seeds with sandpaper and soaking in warm water prior to planting. Maintain warm soil temperatures.

Leggy or stretched seedlings: This means plants aren’t getting enough sun. Provide several hours of direct morning sunlight if possible or use grow lights to supplement.

Leaf drop: Overwatering and soggy soil causes leaves to drop. Allow more time between waterings and use fast-draining soil.

Slow growth: Increase sunlight exposure and fertilize regularly during growing season. Repot in fresh soil annually. Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness.

Continuing Care After Germination

Once your string of pearls seedlings are established, you can care for them much like mature plants. Provide plenty of light, limit water in winter, and feed every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer. Repot annually in fast-draining cactus mix. Propagate by taking 4-6 inch tip cuttings. With good care, your seeded string of pearls should cascade beautifully in just a couple years!

While growing string of pearls from seeds requires more time and effort than taking cuttings, it can be a fun and rewarding way to add these trailing succulents to your collection. Just be patient, provide warm temperatures and bright light, and you’ll have the satisfaction of watching your seeds grow into gorgeous draping plants.