UK compost
What compost for string of raindrops in the UK?
Curio citriformis (syn. Senecio citriformis)
More about string of raindrops in the UK
Which compost string of raindrops needs
For string of raindrops the mix to buy is peat-free multipurpose compost cut roughly half-and-half with horticultural grit or perlite. Use a gritty, fast-draining medium: a bagged cactus and succulent compost loosened with extra perlite, coarse sand or fine grit (roughly one part grit to two parts compost). The aim is a mix that holds a little moisture but drains in seconds, since this species is very prone to root rot. Always plant in a pot with drainage holes.In British garden centres the bagged growing medium is sold simply as “compost” (multipurpose, ericaceous, or loam-based John Innes), which is a different thing from the rotted garden “compost” you make in a heap — for a pot you want the bagged kind.
Peat-free compost
Buy peat-free. The sale of peat compost to home gardeners is being phased out across the UK, and the RHS recommends peat-free on environmental grounds. A good peat-free multipurpose grows string of raindrops perfectly well; the one habit to change is watering — peat-free dries faster at the surface while still moist below, so check by feel a knuckle deep rather than trusting the look of the top.
Ericaceous or multipurpose?
String of Raindrops does not want a rich, water-holding compost — it wants sharp drainage. Cut peat-free multipurpose roughly half-and-half with horticultural grit, sharp sand or perlite, and always pot into a container with drainage holes. A "cactus and succulent" bagged mix is a ready-made shortcut.
For the full recipe, pH and drainage detail (US wording), see the string of raindrops soil & potting-mix guide.
Compost for String of Raindrops in the UK — frequently asked questions
What compost should I use for string of raindrops in the UK?
Use peat-free multipurpose compost cut roughly half-and-half with horticultural grit or perlite. Use a gritty, fast-draining medium: a bagged cactus and succulent compost loosened with extra perlite, coarse sand or fine grit (roughly one part grit to two parts compost). The aim is a mix that holds a little moisture but drains in seconds, since this species is very prone to root rot. Always plant in a pot with drainage holes. In UK garden centres this is sold simply as "compost" — the bagged growing medium, not garden-made leaf-mould — so match the description above rather than a brand.
Can I use ordinary multipurpose compost for string of raindrops?
Not on its own — multipurpose compost holds too much water for string of raindrops and will rot the roots. Cut it roughly 50:50 with horticultural grit, sharp sand or perlite so it drains fast.
Should the compost be peat-free?
Yes. Sales of peat compost to home gardeners are being phased out in the UK, and the RHS recommends peat-free for environmental reasons. Modern peat-free multipurpose composts grow string of raindrops perfectly well — they dry a little faster at the surface, so check moisture by feel rather than by the look of the top.
Does string of raindrops need grit or perlite added?
Yes — string of raindrops must have sharp drainage. Add about one part horticultural grit or perlite to one part compost, and always use a pot with drainage holes.
What pot and drainage does string of raindrops need?
Always a pot with drainage holes. Free-draining cactus or succulent mix. Stand it on a saucer, empty any water that collects after watering, and never leave the pot sitting in a full outer cover — waterlogged compost in a cool UK room is the commonest cause of root rot.
More string of raindrops care
See the full string of raindrops care guide, its UK watering and UK hardiness.