How to Grow Ruby Necklace Plant Indoors

The Ruby Necklace plant, also known as Othonna capensis, is a beautiful succulent that can be grown indoors. With its trailing vines of ruby red leaves, this plant adds a touch of elegance and color to any indoor space. If you’re looking to add a unique and low-maintenance plant to your indoor garden, the Ruby Necklace plant is an excellent choice. In this article, we will discuss how to grow and care for the Ruby Necklace plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Location

When it comes to growing the Ruby Necklace plant indoors, choosing the right location is crucial. This plant loves bright and indirect sunlight, so placing it near a south-facing window or a spot with filtered light is ideal. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can lead to sunburned leaves.

Providing the Right Soil

The Ruby Necklace plant prefers well-draining soil. A mix of potting soil and perlite or sand works well for this succulent. This type of soil allows excess water to drain away, preventing root rot. It’s important to choose a pot with drainage holes to ensure proper drainage.

Watering Requirements

Like most succulents, the Ruby Necklace plant has low watering requirements. It’s best to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. When watering, thoroughly soak the soil and let any excess water drain away. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant goes into a dormant period.

Temperature and Humidity

The Ruby Necklace plant thrives in average room temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during the winter months but should be protected from frost. This succulent is adaptable to average indoor humidity levels and does not require any additional humidity.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing is not necessary for the Ruby Necklace plant, but if you choose to fertilize, do so sparingly. A diluted liquid succulent fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season is sufficient. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to leggy growth and other problems.

Propagation

Propagating the Ruby Necklace plant is relatively easy. The most common method is through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem with at least three leaves and allow it to dry for a day or two. Once dried, place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and lightly water. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.

Pruning and Maintenance

The Ruby Necklace plant has a trailing growth habit, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or containers placed on shelves. To maintain its compact shape, occasional pruning is necessary. Simply trim back any leggy or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves to prevent disease and maintain the plant’s overall health.

Common Problems and Solutions

While the Ruby Necklace plant is generally low-maintenance, it can encounter a few common problems. Here are some solutions to these issues:

• Overwatering: If the leaves become mushy and start to rot, it’s a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

• Pest infestation: The most common pests that affect succulents are mealybugs and aphids. If you notice tiny white bugs or sticky residue on the leaves, treat the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Leggy growth: Insufficient sunlight can cause leggy growth in the Ruby Necklace plant. Move it to a brighter location with indirect sunlight to encourage compact growth.

Final Thoughts

Growing the Ruby Necklace plant indoors can be a rewarding experience. With its vibrant red leaves and trailing vines, it adds a unique touch to any indoor space. By providing the right location, soil, and watering conditions, you can enjoy the beauty of this succulent with minimal effort. Remember to keep an eye out for common problems and address them promptly to ensure the health and longevity of your Ruby Necklace plant.