The Strings of Turtles plant, also called Peperomia prostrata (its scientific name), is a stunning, trailing semi succulent plant popularly known for its delightful variegated leaf patterns that resemble a turtle’s shell.
Furthermore, it is also worth noting that the plant is much easier to propagate and care for when compared with varieties such as the String of Pearls.
This article explores all the essential guidelines that will help you effectively take care of your Strings of Turtles plant.
Does The String of Turtles Plant Have Any Other Names?
The Strings of Turtles plant, which is also scientifically known as Peperomia prostrata, is a slow-growing perennial succulent plant that initially originated from South America in the rainforests of Brazil, where it grows close to the ground.
Main Uses of String of Turtles Plants
The plants’ small size and ornamental foliage make it the perfect indoor plant for making:
- Dish gardens.
- Terrarium plants.
- Office desks.
- Container gardens.
- Hanging baskets.
How to Prune String of Turtles Plants
Occasional pruning is required for the Strings of Turtles plant to prevent it from developing a ragged, unkempt, leggy appearance. Furthermore, regular pruning allows you to eliminate all abscise dead and damaged leaves and stems and encourages the plants’ new and vigorous growth. Do all your pruning with very sharp snips or sanitized scissors.
Best Soil for String of Turtles Plants
If you are familiar with growing succulents, you are probably used to using a premix explicitly formulated for these plants. However, these premixes should not be used for your String of Turtles plant.
You should use a mix that is rich in peat, which is perfect for Peperomia prostrata. Since peat is generally acidic, remember to frequently test your soil to avoid it getting too low.
How Much Light Do String of Turtle Plants Need?
The Strings of Turtles plant prefers bright indirect light. This is because the plant’s leaves tend to be damaged if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
How Often to Water String of Turtles Plants
Due to the fact that this plant is native to the Brazilian rainforest, it thrives well in slightly moist conditions.
Moreover, this can be easily achieved by keeping the peaty soil moist only during the growing season and using the succulent ‘soak and dry’ method during the winter season.
Nonetheless, keep in mind that this plant tends to get damaged more from overwatering than from exposure to dry conditions.
Ideal Temperature Conditions for String of Turtles Plants
Similar to the other tropical plants, the Strings of Turtles plant successfully grows with cooler, more humid temperatures of about 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity Conditions for String of Turtles Plants
Peperomia prostrate thrives well with slightly more humid conditions and water. You can easily accomplish this by misting the leaves or placing the plant in a gravel tray within the summer to increase the humidity.
However, remember to make sure that the leaves do not stay wet for long periods.
Best Fertilizer for String of Turtles Plants
Feeding your Strings of Turtles plant with a diluted houseplant fertilizer biweekly during the growing season will help maintain its bright shiny vigor and ensure that the plant’s leaves’ patterns and color are held throughout the growing season.
How to Propagate String of Turtles Plants
The following are easy-to-follow steps on how to propagate your Stings of Turtles plant effectively:
- Use a clean pair of sharp scissors to cut off a few cuttings just below where the leaves and roots grow out of the main stem.
- Snip off some of the leaves close to the base of the cutting with your pair of sharp scissors and carefully stick the base of the cutting into a pot with potting mix.
- The last step is to place the cuttings in a place with bright, indirect sunlight. Remember to mist the potting mix as needed but do not overwater the cuttings.
You can test if your plants’ root system has developed by giving it a very gentle tug in a few weeks.
Growth Rate of String of Turtles Plants
The Strings of Turtles plant is an ideal choice if you have limited space due to its small size. Moreover, it has a slow growth rate, attaining full maturity within 3-5 years.
Ideal Pot Size for String of Turtles Plants
The String of Turtles plant will do well in a small pot whose exact size will depend on the size of the plant itself. Remember, this plant prefers to be root bound.
Repotting Tips for String of Turtles Plants
The following are some of the easy-to-follow tips on how to properly and effectively propagate your Strings of Turtles plant:
- Repot your plant every 3 years in the spring, using a ‘Cactus & Succulent’ labeled potting mix and a pot with sufficient drainage.
- Due to the increased risk of root rot and repotting issues with the Strings of Turtles plant, it is advisable to report if it’s really necessary.
- To prevent the risk of transplant shock, make sure you water your plant a day before tinkering with its roots.
- If you are situated in a darker location, include an additional amount of grit and perlite into the deeper portion of the pot to avoid any over-watering risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are String of Turtles Plants Edible?
The plant is generally classified as poisonous. Therefore, if small sections are eaten, you are likely to experience; nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Are String of Turtles Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Unfortunately, the Peperomia prostrata is classified as toxic to household pets when ingested. Therefore, you should keep the plant out of reach from these furry friends at home.
Are String of Turtles Plants Poisonous?
The Strings of Turtles is considered poisonous, so if any sections are eaten, it is advisable to seek medical assistance quickly.
Do String of Turtles Plants Prefer to Grow Indoors or Outside?
The plant can grow outside in USADA hardiness zones from 10-12. However, most gardeners prefer to grow them as evergreen houseplants.
Conclusion
The String of Turtles (Peperomia Prostrata) plant is generally considered the perfect houseplant due to its ability to withstand a wide range of conditions: occasional watering, medium to full sunlight, and occasional pruning. Moreover, this compact radiator plant will make an excellent addition to your indoor houseplant jungle.
