Complete guide to string of nickels care

String of nickels (senecio herreianus) is a succulent trailing houseplant that is native to South America. It's known for its unique foliage that resembles a string of coins. This plant is low maintenance and easy to care for, making it a great choice for novice gardeners and experienced plant enthusiasts alike. Here's what you need to know:

• They won't mind partial shade - they're used to the crevices of tall trees
• Light watering is best, so let the soil completely dry out
• String of nickels love moist air, so spritz yours regularly with a mister

If you happen to find yourself in a forest in the tropics of Asia, look up and you might see string of nickels, or dischidia imbricata. It makes its home in the crevices of tall trees (scientifically, it’s known as an epiphyte). It dangles handsomely soaking up moisture from the atmosphere. In the wild, it gets most of its required water and nutrients from the air. Remembering that is a good way to understand how to care for it. Our string of nickels family includes Theodore and Theodora (a variegated version).

String of nickels thrive in bright, indirect light. This means they should be placed in an area that's not directly in the path of the sun, but still receives plenty of sunlight. But because they're used to living up in the trees, they'll also be perfectly happy in partial shade.

Because string of nickels absorb much of their water from the air, they should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. This means that the top inch or two of soil should not be wet. Water thoroughly and allow the excess to drain away. Don't let the plant to sit in standing water.

String of nickels prefer temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid placing the plant in areas with draughts or extreme temperatures.

String of nickels prefer a humid environment. If the air in your home is dry, you can increase the humidity by misting the leaves or placing the pot on a humidity tray. Your plant will also quite happily dangle from a kitchen shelf or hang out in the bathroom where it's naturally more humid.

String of nickels should be fertilised with a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks during spring and summer, the growing season.

Pruning isn't necessary, but it can help to keep your plant looking neat and tidy. To prune, simply trim away any leggy or dead foliage. If your plant is getting a bit too long, just give it a haircut - it won't mind.

String of nickels should be repotted every two to three years. When repotting, use a well-draining potting mix and choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.

String of nickels are susceptible to pests like mealybugs and aphids. If you notice any pests, use an insecticidal soap to treat the plant. If the problem persists, you may need to consult a professional, so just get in touch with one of our Plant Doctors.

With these tips, you should be able to keep your string of nickels healthy and thriving. With the right care, this unique houseplant can bring beauty and life to any home.