Are you searching for a low-maintenance and visually stunning hanging plant? Look no further than the String Of Bananas houseplant! Not only is it easy to care for, but it also has a unique charm that is sure to capture your attention.
While the String Of Pearls succulent has gained immense popularity, there is another “string” succulent that deserves recognition. Meet the String Of Bananas houseplant, an adorable and attractive succulent that is even easier to maintain than its relative.
Key Takeaways
Traits of the String of Bananas
Growing the String Of Bananas houseplant is a breeze compared to the more delicate String Of Pearls. Its thicker stems make it less prone to damage, and they grow faster, allowing for easier propagation. Unlike the String Of Pearls, the bananas of this succulent don’t dry out due to their robust stems.
Many readers have reported great success with the String Of Bananas, even when struggling to keep the String Of Pearls alive. So why not give this charming succulent a try?
Size
String Of Bananas plants are typically sold in 3″, 4″, and 6″ inch pots. The trails on these plants can grow up to 4′ long, with the potential to reach 6′ in length. In their natural environment, they serve as ground cover.
Growth Rate
While the String Of Bananas exhibits a moderate growth rate when grown indoors, it can grow moderately to fast when planted outdoors. Adequate light is crucial for ensuring a healthy growth rate indoors.
Uses
The String Of Bananas thrives in hanging baskets or pots, making it an ideal choice for decorating bookcases, shelves, or ledges. Its beautiful trails create an appealing display when allowed to hang down.
String Of Bananas Light Requirements
This trailing succulent thrives in bright light indoors. Place it in a location with medium to high exposure to ensure optimal growth. While it can tolerate some shade, a lack of sufficient light will hinder its growth.
When positioning the plant near a sunny window, ensure it is shielded from direct sunlight, especially during the summer months, as the plump leaves can easily burn. To ensure equal exposure to light from all sides, rotate the plant every 3-6 months.
String Of Bananas Watering
To provide proper care, you’ll need to consider several factors, such as the pot size, soil type, growing location, and your home’s environment. However, watering every 2-3 weeks is a good guideline. Thoroughly water the String Of Bananas, allowing the soil to dry out before the next watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so avoid keeping the soil constantly moist or too dry.
Temperature
String Of Bananas is a resilient plant that adapts well to normal house temperatures. However, it is sensitive to extreme hot or cold drafts. Ensure that it is not placed near heaters or air conditioning units to maintain its health.
Fertilizing/Feeding
During the active growing season (spring to early fall), it is recommended to fertilize the String Of Bananas. While it doesn’t require excessive fertilization, using liquid fertilizers such as Grow Big, Liquid Kelp, and Maxsea or Sea Grow three to four times during the growing season will benefit the plant.
If your growing season is shorter, you can reduce the frequency to twice a year, during spring and summer, using half the recommended amount. Additionally, applying a thin layer of local worm compost or compost every other year will naturally enrich the soil and promote healthy root growth.
String Of Bananas Soil
Using a high-quality succulent and cactus soil mix is essential for the String Of Bananas. This type of potting mix ensures proper drainage, preventing the roots from rotting. A chunky DIY Cactus and Succulent Mix Recipe or commercially available brands like Dr. Earth, EB Stone, Bonsai Jack, and Tanks’ are suitable choices. If traditional potting soil is used, adding pumice or perlite will improve drainage.
Repotting String Of Bananas
String Of Bananas plants do not require frequent repotting. Repotting every 3-5 years during the active growing season is sufficient. When repotting, choose a pot size that is slightly larger than the current one, ensuring that the crown of the plant (the top part where stems grow out of) is not placed deeper than 1″ in the pot. Deep planting can lead to stem rot. Opt for pots with multiple drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
String Of Bananas Propagation
Propagation of the String Of Bananas is quick and easy using stem cuttings. For a detailed guide on propagating this plant, refer to the dedicated post and video provided below.
String Of Bananas Pests
While the String Of Bananas is generally resistant to pests, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. Identifying these pests and using appropriate control methods are crucial for maintaining the plant’s health. Please refer to the links below for more information on identification and control methods.
String Of Bananas Toxicity
Although not explicitly listed by the ASPCA, the String Of Bananas is related to the toxic String Of Pearls. Therefore, it’s better to assume that it carries a similar level of toxicity. If you have pets that tend to chew on plants, it is advisable to keep the String Of Bananas out of their reach.
String Of Bananas Flowers
Yes, the String Of Bananas produces beautiful white flowers! These flowers are borne on long stems that curve slightly upwards. While they may not be as fragrant as the flowers of the String Of Pearls, they still add a touch of beauty to the plant. The bloom time for the String Of Bananas typically occurs in winter due to shorter days and cooler temperatures. Although outdoor plants are more likely to flower, it is possible for indoor plants to bloom as well.
If you live in a cold climate, you can give your String Of Bananas a summer vacation by placing it outdoors. However, there are a few considerations:
- Protect the plant from direct sunlight, as excessive sun exposure can cause burns. Partial shade is preferable.
- If your area experiences heavy rainfall during summer, it’s wise to provide protection, such as placing the plant under a covered patio or screened porch. Overly wet conditions can lead to rotting of the stems and bananas (leaves).
- Before bringing the plant indoors for the colder months, rinse it gently to remove any pests or their eggs that might have hitchhiked on it.
Conclusion
To ensure the optimal growth of your String Of Bananas indoors, pay attention to light requirements and watering habits. Inadequate light and overwatering are the most common issues that can lead to the decline of this beautiful succulent.
If you struggle to find a String Of Bananas locally, consider checking out the growers and sellers on Etsy. With its cascading trails and unique banana-shaped leaves, this plant will undoubtedly add a delightful touch to any space.
(Note: This article was originally published on 5/29/2018 and was last updated on 7/4/2023.)
Happy gardening!
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