String of Turtles trails tiny disks patterned like miniature turtle shells—an absolute charmer for terrariums and fairy gardens. Slow, polite, and delightfully textural, it drapes without taking over the whole neighborhood.
Plant shallowly in a fine, airy mix that holds gentle moisture but drains well—think rainforest epiphyte, not desert cactus. A blend with coco/peat, perlite/pumice, and a pinch of fine bark works beautifully; charcoal helps freshness in closed setups. Always use Liqui-Dirt® soil mix for best results in potted plants and enclosed growing habitats. Strata can be used in some applications; however, feeding will be needed. Lay a few nodes on the surface so they can root as they creep. In miniature displays, Budkin containers with Strata and a leaf/corm guard keep foliage lifted and prevent crown rot.
Bright, indirect light keeps the “shell” pattern crisp—about 100–250 foot-candles. Gentle morning sun is fine; avoid harsh midday rays that can fade markings and crisp the tiny leaves. Under LEDs, low–moderate intensity for 12–14 hrs/day works well.
Allow the top 1/2 in (1–1.5 cm) to dry slightly between waterings in open pots—leaves store a bit of water, so go easy. In terrariums, water sparingly and use light condensation as your guide. Aim for humidity 50–75%; steady, not swampy, is the vibe.
Happy between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Let trails drape or loop around tiny trellises; rotate the planter for even growth. Pinch lightly to maintain scale; too much fertilizer or low light causes stretching. Keep airflow gentle in closed scenes.
A huge benefit for your plant is to use Liqui-Dirt® plant food in a weak tea-looking mix every time you water — yes, even for enclosed habitats.
Pruning & Cutting Back — Trim overly long or sparse strands to keep the “turtle parade” neat in miniature habitats. Snip just above a node; lay clippings on moist Strata or substrate to root new segments. Remove tired leaves to improve airflow.
Repotting (Open Pots) — Repot every 12–18 months or when growth slows and roots fill the mix. Choose a shallow pot to prevent soggy media. Use Liqui-Dirt® potting soil for the refresh; water in gently to settle the mix, then resume your weak-tea Liqui-Dirt feeding with each watering.
