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String of Turtles

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Peperomia prostrata

KNOWN AS: String of Turtles, Turtle Vine

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Brazil | Tropical Rainforest

DESCRIPTION: The String of Turtles is a delicate and unique trailing plant. It is named for its small, round leaves that feature a beautiful, intricate pattern resembling a turtle's shell. This plant is an excellent choice for a hanging basket or high shelf, where its beautiful vines can be fully appreciated.

String of Turtles Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

The String of Turtles thrives on bright, indirect light. It needs plenty of light to maintain the vibrant patterns on its leaves. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can easily scorch its leaves. If the plant is in a low-light area, the unique patterns may fade.

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Watering

Quick Tip: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.

The String of Turtles is a succulent that is highly susceptible to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil are dry to the touch, and allow the excess water to drain from the pot. Reduce watering in the fall and winter.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 65º - 80º

The String of Turtles prefers warm, stable temperatures. The ideal range is between 65-80°F. It is sensitive to cold and should be kept away from drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 50 - 70%; Moderate/High Humidity

The String of Turtles is a tropical plant that loves high humidity. You can increase the humidity around your plant by using a humidifier, misting its leaves, or placing the pot on a tray of pebbles with water.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
The easiest way to propagate a String of Turtles is by stem cuttings.Take a cutting of a stem that is a few inches long and has several leaves. Lay the cutting on top of a moist, well-draining soil mix. The roots will form from the leaf nodes.You can gently press the stems into the soil to ensure contact.
Toxicity
The String of Turtles is non-toxic to humans and animals. This plant is safe for households with children and pets.
Repotting
The String of Turtles is a slow grower and prefers to be a bit pot-bound. Repotting is typically only necessary every 1-2 years, or when the plant has outgrown its pot. Select a new pot that is slightly larger than the current one and has drainage holes. Use fresh, well-draining soil. Carefully place the plant in the new pot, filling in the sides with fresh soil.
Pruning
Pruning is a simple task to maintain the shape and health of your String of Turtles.Trim away any dead or damaged stems. You can also snip off stems to encourage a fuller, bushier plant. Use clean, sharp shears to make a cut. The trimmed stems can be used for propagation.
Fertilizer
String of Turtles do not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is ideal. Fertilize once a month during the spring and summer growing season. Do not fertilize during the fall and winter.
Soil
The right soil is crucial for a healthy String of Turtles. The plant requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good mix is potting soil amended with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Always use a pot with a drainage hole to ensure excess water can escape and prevent root rot.

Hanging Heights

String of Turtles Lighting Requirements: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

A statement plant is one of the simplest ways to make a room feel finished, but the difference between a thriving focal point and a sad, leggy one usually comes down to light. Match the plant to your space, style it with intention, and supplement with a grow light when your favorite design spot falls short on sun.

Outdoor sunlight peaks at around 10,000 foot-candles, but a well-lit room indoors usually measures under 100. The best grow light for your plant comes down to matching the light's output and form to your plant's light category.

Healthy houseplants depend on 17 essential nutrients, and 14 of them come from the soil in the pot. The best setup for most indoor plants is a loose, well-draining soilless mix paired with a diluted, balanced fertilizer applied only while the plant is actively growing. This guide covers what goes into a good potting mix, how to read a fertilizer label, how often to feed, and how to spot the signs of too much of a good thing.