How To Make Your Plants Happy: String of Bananas Care Guide

Drawing of string of bananas

Light

This plant needs as much light as you can provide it indoors to flourish, medium to full light is necessary. If there is too little light the plant will not grow. During summer, keep out of harsh sunshine. Rotate the plant every 3-6 months for even growth.

Water

Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. This plant is drought tolerant and prefers less water opposed to too much as it is highly susceptible of root rot. Don't keep it evenly moist at all times but don't keep it bone dry either. During winter the plant is dormant so only give a tad bit of water to avoid it being bone dry.

Environment

Normal household temperatures and humidity is fine for this plant. Keep away from hot or cold drafts. The plant originates from a dry environment so no extra humidity is necessary.

Growth

This plant can grow vines up to 36" long and leaves up to 1" big. Succulents do not necessary need fertilizer but if the plant is not growing healthy, you can give it a 1/2 strength diluted fertilizer or organic compost in spring or summer, none in winter.

Repotting

This succulent likes to be root bound so only repot every 1-2 years during spring or summer. When repotting, be sure to use a well-draining or succulent soil and choose a pot no larger than 1" bigger. Be gentle when repotting to avoid breaking any stems, but if any fall off, pop them back into the soil and they will regrow their roots.

Propagating

The String of Bananas is one of the most easy houseplants to propagate through cuttings. Use a sharp knife to cut off a section of stem that has some leaves. Leave the cutting on your table for about a week so the tip can callus. When callused over, place the cutting on top of succulent soil and lightly water to allow the roots to grow. When rooted, pot the cutting(s) into a small pot with succulent soil and provide bright, indirect light.

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets.

String of bananas plant potted on a stool

About the String of Bananas

Botanical Name: Senecio radicans

Nicknames: String of Bananas, Fishhook Senecio, Fishhook Succulent, Banana Vine, Creeping Berry, Necklace Plant

The String and Bananas is an easy to care for and well loved houseplants. It is a cascading succulent with long vines comprised of shiny green, banana-shaped leaves. While each leaf can grow up to 1" big, the vines themselves can reach lengths of up to 36" long. If you have tried the String of Pearls without luck, don't stress, the String of Bananas is a more hardy and easy to care for alternative. This plant is drought tolerant and loves a lot of sunshine.

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