Peperomia Prostrata – String of Turtles.
This wonderful trailing succulent is a great choice for a bright position, and if you tend to forget to water your plants. The delicate little leaves are beautifully patterned, and as the name suggests, resemble tiny turtle shells.
Native to the tropical jungle of Ecuador, South America, it`s an easy care plant, in the right spot, and another current favourite to add to your collection.
Follow these tips for success:
Keep in bright, indirect light. Avoid strong sun or shade. String of Turtles likes to have a good amount of light penetrating the soil, this helps to keep the fleshy, trailing stems in good health. Too much shade, or being cramped underneath a shelf, or too near to the ceiling, can result in excess moisture eventually leading to rot.
Water preferably from below. Stand the pot in a container of water, approximately 25% submerged, and allow to draw water until well hydrated. This will keep excess moisture of off the top of the compost and surrounding foliage. It is then very important that you allow the soil to dry, basically completely, before you water again. Don`t be too hasty if this seems to take a long time, how often will depend on the position, and temperature, of where it is kept.
Average humidity, and keep away from any direct heat source, or cold draughts.
Room temperatures between 18-26c.
Fertilise in growth, Spring and Summer, using a Cacti / Succulent liquid feed as per instructions, approximately once every fourth water.
Minimum Temp: 15c
Aftercare:
In Winter tropical plants enjoy a dormant period, growth is slow, temperatures are cooler, and light levels lower.
Therefore reduce the amount and frequency of water. Just be cautious as to how long it takes to dry between watering. This is commonly the time of year when problems can arise with root and stem rot from moisture taking too long to dry.
Do not fertilise.
Average humidity, and keep away from any direct heat source, or cold draughts.
Don`t allow temperatures to drop below 15c.
Remove any dying leaves, or debris to encourage good plant health.
Repot in Spring approx. every 2-3 years once the roots completely fill the current pot. Use good quality, free draining, cacti and succulent compost, and only a slightly larger pot to avoid the shock of too much compost, and too much moisture at the roots.
