Family: Piperaceae
Common Name: String of Turtles, Magic, Turtle Strings
Botanical Name: Peperomia prostrata
This slow-growing and low-maintenance succulent is perfect for those who have limited space, or simply appreciate unique houseplants! The strands of this indoor plant are packed with adorable little succulent leaves that look like miniature turtle shells. Learn how to care for Peperomia prosrtata with these easy-to-follow care tips!
Light
The string of turtles flourishes in bright, indirect sunshine. Too much sun on these plants can harm the leaves, yet too little light will result in lanky growth. It is quite good to provide your plant with 2-3 hours of bright sunlight but avoid whole-day sun exposure. Due to the vining nature of the plant, make sure that sunlight reaches its top to continue new growth. Vining plants are frequently put on high ledges or in dark settings, causing them to stop generating new growth. To avoid this, ensure that light reaches every part of your plant.
Soil
If you ever need to transplant your string of turtles, we recommend using a soil mixture that is rich in organic matter, has good drainage, and is light and loose. Most bagged potting soil will be fine for your Peperomia prostrata but avoid potting mixes that contain moisture retaining crystals, as they can keep the soil wet for long periods which can cause root damage. It is important to note that these indoor plants have shallow root systems and rarely need to be transplanted! Learn how to make your own indoor plant potting soil!
Water
The string of turtles does not require frequent watering since they hold moisture in their thick leaves. In wet conditions, these plants are more susceptible to over-watering than in dry conditions. Check for drainage holes in the container, water well, and then allow the soil dry in between watering. Wet the soil until water flows out the bottom of the container and the dirt is thoroughly saturated to avoid over-watering your plant. Wait until the top 2 inches of soil has dried up before watering the plant again.
Temperature
This plant loves cool yet more humid temperatures versus the hotter temps that most succulent enthusiasts are accustomed to. Maintain a steady temperature range of 68 to 75 °F for your string of turtles. Temperatures below 50̊°F may cause plants to wilt. These plants don't like cold conditions, so keep them away from outside doors and poorly ventilated windows, and if you put them outdoors in the summer, remember to take them inside before the weather becomes cold!
Humidity
This plant prefers humid conditions and thrives in houses with moderate humidity and mildly dry air. You could use a humidifier to improve humidity around the plant during the dry summer months or while a heater is operating in the winter. Just make sure that you don't let the leaves stay wet.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing a string of turtles will help the plant preserve its lustrous shine and keep the tint and textures of the leaves consistent throughout the growing season. The string of turtles thrives on any balanced fertilizer. Feed it twice a month during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing! Learn how and when to fertilize your houseplants!
Growth Rate
The string of turtles plants are slow growers. These plants can take between three to five years to mature, after which they will slow down dramatically. A string of turtles is usually approximately a foot long in size and hangs down from its container. However, it can grow to about two feet in ideal conditions.
Pet Friend or Foe
String of turtles is a pet-friendly plant. Friend!
Pro Tips
- If the string of turtles plants is not trimmed regularly, they will become untidy, ragged, and lanky. Pruning regularly will allow you to eliminate layers of dead leaves and stems and calm unruly growth. However, excessive trimming can cause the plant to lose its luscious, leafy look and become spindly.
- Transplant the plant only after it has outgrown its present container.
- You can use insecticidal soap and neem oil every 3 to 4 weeks to deter pests.