Troubleshooting
String of pickles problems — and how to fix them
String of pickles (Othonna capensis 'Little Pickles' (syn. Crassothonna capensis)) 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.
Mushy, translucent, or yellowing leaves
Overwatering and poor drainage causing root rot — let the soil dry fully and use a grittier mix.
Shrivelled, wrinkled leaves
Underwatering; give a thorough soak and the beads should plump back up.
Leaves stay green instead of turning red
Not enough light — move to a brighter spot with some direct sun to bring out the ruby colour.
Leggy, stretched stems with sparse leaves
Insufficient light (etiolation); relocate closer to a sunny window.
Summer stall or leaf drop
This is a cool-season grower that can go semi-dormant in peak summer heat — reduce water and shade from intense midday sun until growth resumes.
Mealybugs or aphids
Sap-sucking pests hide along stems and leaf joints; wipe off with isopropyl alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap.
Prevent string of pickles problems before they start
Most string of pickles issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
String of pickles problems — FAQ
Why is my string of pickles mushy, translucent, or yellowing leaves?
Overwatering and poor drainage causing root rot — let the soil dry fully and use a grittier mix.
Why is my string of pickles shrivelled, wrinkled leaves?
Underwatering; give a thorough soak and the beads should plump back up.
Why is my string of pickles leaves stay green instead of turning red?
Not enough light — move to a brighter spot with some direct sun to bring out the ruby colour.
Why is my string of pickles leggy, stretched stems with sparse leaves?
Insufficient light (etiolation); relocate closer to a sunny window.
Why is my string of pickles summer stall or leaf drop?
This is a cool-season grower that can go semi-dormant in peak summer heat — reduce water and shade from intense midday sun until growth resumes.
Why is my string of pickles mealybugs or aphids?
Sap-sucking pests hide along stems and leaf joints; wipe off with isopropyl alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap.