Troubleshooting
String of Pearls problems — and how to fix them
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Shrivelled pearls and root rot
Counterintuitively, shrivelled pearls are most often caused by overwatering leading to root rot, not underwatering. Check roots — healthy ones are white; brown, mushy roots indicate rot. Cut off damaged roots, let dry, and replant in fresh gritty compost.
Pearls dropping off and bare stems
Caused by insufficient light or direct sun scorching. Reposition to bright indirect light. Bare leggy stems can be laid on moist compost — nodes will root along the stem and produce new growth.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs colonise the junctions between pearls and along stems. Treat promptly with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol or apply a neem oil solution. Repeat weekly for 3–4 weeks to break the lifecycle.
Prevent string of pearls problems before they start
Most string of pearls issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common string of pearls problems — our other guide for the same plant
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- String of Pearls watering schedule
- String of Pearls light requirements
- Best soil mix for string of pearls
- String of Pearls temperature & humidity
- Full string of pearls care guide
Looking for string of pearls in general rather than its problems? Read the full string of pearls care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
String of Pearls problems — FAQ
Why is my string of pearls shrivelled pearls and root rot?
Counterintuitively, shrivelled pearls are most often caused by overwatering leading to root rot, not underwatering. Check roots — healthy ones are white; brown, mushy roots indicate rot. Cut off damaged roots, let dry, and replant in fresh gritty compost.
Why is my string of pearls pearls dropping off and bare stems?
Caused by insufficient light or direct sun scorching. Reposition to bright indirect light. Bare leggy stems can be laid on moist compost — nodes will root along the stem and produce new growth.
Why is my string of pearls mealybugs?
Mealybugs colonise the junctions between pearls and along stems. Treat promptly with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol or apply a neem oil solution. Repeat weekly for 3–4 weeks to break the lifecycle.