The Ruby Necklace Plant: A Guide to Growing and Caring for this Beautiful Houseplant

Ruby Necklace Plant: What is it?

The Ruby Necklace Plant (Othonna Crassifolia) is a beautiful trailing succulent native to South Africa. It's also known as the string of rubies or little pickles because of its small, round leaves that look like tiny green pearls. This plant is easy to care for, making it a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts.

How to Grow Ruby Necklace Plant?

Propagation:

The Ruby Necklace Plant can be propagated easily through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting of the plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in well-draining soil. It's best to do this during the warm months of the year when the plant is actively growing. The cutting will root within a few weeks and produce new growth.

Soil and Watering:

The Ruby Necklace Plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure not to let the plant sit in standing water.

Light and Temperature:

The Ruby Necklace Plant likes bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct morning or afternoon sun. As for temperature, it prefers a warm environment with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F.

Fertilization:

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to keep your Ruby Necklace Plant healthy.

Caring for Ruby Necklace Plant:

Pruning:

To keep your Ruby Necklace Plant looking its best, you can prune it from time to time. Simply trim back any leggy growth or yellowing leaves.

Repotting:

You should repot your Ruby Necklace Plant once a year to ensure it has enough space to grow. Be sure to use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.

Pests and Diseases:

The Ruby Necklace Plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them promptly if they appear.

How to Decorate with Ruby Necklace Plant?

Hanging Baskets:

One of the best ways to display your Ruby Necklace Plant is in a hanging basket. The trailing stems and small round leaves will cascade beautifully over the side of the basket.

Shelves:

If you have a shelf that gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight, you can place your Ruby Necklace Plant there. It will add some greenery to the space while also filtering the air.

Wall Decoration:

You can also create a wall decoration using your Ruby Necklace Plant. Simply attach a wire frame to the wall and hang your plant in a way that allows the stems to trail down the frame.

FAQs:

Q1: Can the Ruby Necklace Plant be grown outside?

A: Yes, the Ruby Necklace Plant can be grown outside in areas with warm temperatures and well-draining soil.

Q2: How often should I water my Ruby Necklace Plant?

A: Water your Ruby Necklace Plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.

Q3: What should I do if my Ruby Necklace Plant gets too leggy?

A: Simply trim back any leggy growth to keep your Ruby Necklace Plant looking its best.

Q4: Is the Ruby Necklace Plant toxic to pets?

A: Yes, the Ruby Necklace Plant is toxic to pets. Keep it out of reach of dogs and cats.

Q5: How can I propagate my Ruby Necklace Plant?

A: You can propagate your Ruby Necklace Plant through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting of the plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in well-draining soil.

That's it for our guide to growing and caring for the Ruby Necklace Plant. This beautiful succulent is easy to care for and makes a great addition to any indoor garden. Happy planting!