What is a String of Hearts?
String of hearts, also known as Ceropegia woodii, is a popular trailing succulent. It is native to South Africa and has become widely appreciated for its heart-shaped leaves that dangle from thin stems. This characteristic makes it perfect for hanging baskets or trailing down the side of shelves or bookcases. The plant typically produces small white flowers with pinkish centers in the summer which add an extra layer of beauty to this already mesmerizing species.
Propagation Basics
String of hearts can be propagated by taking cuttings from mature plants. To do so, locate a healthy stem section on the mother plant and snip it off just below one node (where a leaf meets the stem). Cuttings should be about 6 inches long with at least two sets of leaves attached at the tip. Once cut, allow your cutting to dry out overnight before planting it in well-draining soil mix either directly into your garden bed or potting container filled with soil specifically designed for cacti and succulents. Make sure you bury each node so that it’s slightly below ground level when finished planting – this will help promote root growth!
How Long Does Propagation Take?
Once planted correctly, you can expect your string of hearts cuttings to take anywhere between 3 – 12 weeks before they begin sending out new roots and growth starts appearing above ground level. During propagation, make sure that you keep your soil moist but not waterlogged; too much water can cause root rot issues which could lead to death if left unchecked! After roots have developed successfully from the nodes on your cutting(s), you’ll notice new shoots starting to grow along their length within 2-4 months after propagation started depending on how quickly conditions are conducive for growth (e.g., temperature/lighting).
