Bead Plant

Bead Plant requires careful watering as they are susceptible to root rot. The soil should be checked for dryness before watering as the amount of water the plant needs can vary depending on things like humidity or temperature. Ideally, the soil should dry out completely between watering; if it doesn’t get enough water, the leaves will become limp and soft. When watering, make sure to only water the soil, rather than the leaves or stem of the plant.

Bead Plant should receive bright, indirect light to avoid burns. Places with full shade or direct exposure to the sun should be avoided. Ideally, a south-east facing window will provide the right amount of sunlight. The plant should have a light source 12-14 hours a day. If the plant doesn’t get enough light, the leaves will start to be more elongated.

This species prefers warm temperatures, around 70-80° Fahrenheit (21-27° Celsius). It does not do well in temperatures below 55°F (12.8°C) and should not be exposed to freezing temperatures. It also doesn’t require very hot temperatures, as too hot of a temperature can cause the leaves to start to become dull.

These plants enjoy humid conditions, so misting it is sometimes recommended. To increase humidity, you can place a humidity tray beneath the pot to increase the moisture in the air. This will help the plant to stay green and vibrant. Humidity levels should never be too low; dry air can cause the tips of the leaves to be dry and eventually fall off.

Bead Plant is best grown in a light, well-draining soil mix. This may include materials such as peat, coco coir and perlite. A combination of cacti/succulent potting mix and regular succulent soil mix works well too. Keeping the soil lightly moist is ideal, so using a mix with more organic matter can help with moisture retention.

Fertilizing Bead Plant should only be done during the active growing season from late spring to early autumn. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be used, mixed with water to half strength, to feed the plant every 3-4 weeks. Too much fertilizer can burn the leaves, and excessive fertilizer can increase the chance of pests and disease.

Bead Plant is usually resistant to common pests, however there are a few that can attack members of this species. Slugs and snails can sometimes appear, although they shouldn’t create too much damage. Spider mites and mealybugs can also occur, and they should be taken care of before they spread. To remove spider mites, they can be washed off the leaves with a damp cloth or towel. If there is mealybugs, they can be removed with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. Natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap can also prove effective.

Living in small pots and having overcrowded soil tends to decrease the lifespan of the Bead Plant, so repotting is recommended every other year. Repot in spring, when the plant is starting to get active after the dormancy period. A good general potting mix is enough, and bigger pots (4-6 inches in diameter) should be used to allow for better drainage.

Prune the long vines that the Bead Plant tends to have in order to keep it compact and bushy. Doing this can also stimulate new growth. Make sure to use sharp, sanitized pruning shears and prune just above a node for best results. Pruning blooms can also help to increase the overall growth of the plant.

Mulching is not essential for Bead Plant, but it can enhance the overall look of the plant. A layer of mulch helps the soil to retain moisture longer and allow the plant to survive longer in hotter temperatures. It can also keep soil-borne pests away from the plant. A thin layer (1-2 inches) should do the trick.

Bead Plant can be propagated from cuttings or offsets. Cuttings are easiest, as the plant will root quite easily and can be propagated in water or damp ground. Offsets (or “pups”) can be removed from an adult plant and replanted in soil to propagate. When propagating, make sure that the bottom portion of the cutting (or pup) is buried into the soil and keep the soil lightly moist.

This species grows as a vine, so support is needed to encourage it to climb or trail. Stretching the vines and providing a small trellis or structure for them to climb on can help to create a bushy plant. Moss poles are a popular support option for the Bead Plant due to their natural properties, which make them easier for the plant to clasp around and grow.

The Bead Plant has a dormancy period during the winter months and may even produce flowers during autumn. During this time, it requires less water and needs to be kept in a cool area. During the inactive period, water should be greatly reduced and the soil should be left slightly dry. This can encourage the plant to rest and come back stronger in the spring.

The Bead Plant is not toxic to people or pets, and can be safely kept indoors. However, it should never be ingested as it is not edible. Additionally, it should be kept away from young children or pets as the leaves are very delicate and can easily be broken.