String of hearts care guide
Ceropegia woodii
Also known as: Chain of hearts, Rosary vine
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water String of hearts
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- A spring-and-fall grower: water well two or three days after the topsoil dries, as a guide, a little less and in the evening in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- It grows well in fall: water a few days after the soil dries, as a guide, stretching the gap toward winter.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 20 days
- Indoors, keep it on the dry side, watering lightly about two to three weeks after the soil dries, as a guide.
Light and placement for String of hearts
It likes bright light, generally filtered through a sheer curtain or a window with morning sun, as a guide; too little light fades the leaf pattern and stretches the vines, while harsh midsummer sun scorches the leaves.
Overwintering String of hearts
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Somewhat tender, so keep it above about 5°C: move it to a bright window when nights fall under 10°C and water little; thanks to its underground tuber it usually sprouts again in spring even after losing leaves.
Fertilizing and repotting String of hearts
Fertilizer
Feed lightly: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in spring and fall, none in midsummer or winter, as too much blurs the leaf pattern.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with String of hearts
- Overwatering rots the tuber and the vines pull loose at the base.
- In a dark spot the leaves shrink and only bare stems trail down.
- Cold air at the window in winter makes it drop leaves.
Tips for growing String of hearts
- Set the small tubers that form on the vines onto soil and they root into new plants.
- Coil the vines back over the pot so they touch the soil and thicken the top.
- Thin, soft leaves are the sign it needs water.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
