Watch chain plant or string of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a beautiful succulent that makes an excellent houseplant. Its unique bead-like foliage trails down from the pot, giving it a stunning appearance. However, one common issue that many growers face is the plant falling over. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why your watch chain plant may be falling over and what you can do to prevent it.
One of the most common reasons for a watch chain plant falling over is the lack of proper support. The plant’s stems are thin and fragile, and they cannot hold up the weight of the foliage on their own. Therefore, it is essential to provide proper support to your watch chain plant.
You can use a trellis or stake to provide support to your watch chain plant. Insert a bamboo stake or trellis into the pot and gently tie the stems of the plant to it using a soft string or twine. This way, the plant will have something to lean on, and its stems won’t break under the weight of the beads.
Overwatering is another common issue that leads to a watch chain plant falling over. When you water your plant excessively, the soil becomes waterlogged, and the roots start rotting. As a result, the plant loses its strength, and its stems become weak, leading to falling over.
To prevent overwatering, make sure you water your watch chain plant sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep, and if it feels dry, it’s time to water your plant.
Watch chain plants require bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough sunlight, it will become weak and leggy, leading to falling over.
To prevent your watch chain plant from falling over due to lack of sunlight, make sure you place it in a bright location. A south-facing window is an ideal spot for your plant, but if that’s not possible, you can use artificial grow lights to provide the necessary light.
A: Yes, you can propagate a fallen watch chain plant. Simply cut off the healthy stems and place them in a pot with well-draining soil. Water sparingly and provide bright but indirect sunlight.
A: Water your watch chain plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep, and if it feels dry, it’s time to water your plant.
A: Yes, you can use fertilizer on your watch chain plant. Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
A: Yes, you can prune your watch chain plant. Prune back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
In conclusion, the watch chain plant falling over can be prevented by providing proper support, watering sparingly, and placing the plant in a bright location. With these simple measures in place, your watch chain plant can thrive and continue to beautify your living space for years to come.