String of Watermelons dangles tiny orbs striped just like baby melons—nature’s beadwork for your terrarium or fairy garden. Playful, trailing, and rare in miniature culture, it cascades with a wink of humor and a lot of heart.
Plant shallowly in a free-draining, sandy mix that mimics arid soil. 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. Place stems just on top of the soil so nodes can root as they creep. In mini displays, Budkin containers with Strata and a leaf guard prevent crown rot while showing off the trailing vines.
Bright, indirect light or dappled sun brings out crisp watermelon striping. Tolerates a touch of direct morning sun, but protect from harsh midday rays that can scorch the plump leaves.
Allow the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) to dry between waterings. Leaves store water, so err on the dry side. In terrariums, water very lightly—occasional misting or drops at the base are enough. Overwatering quickly leads to mushy vines.
Keep between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Pinch or trim vines to encourage branching and a fuller, bead-curtain effect. Let trails drape over terrarium edges or guide them around fairy-sized trellises. Fertilize sparingly—too much makes it stretch.
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 — Snip overly long or tangled vines to keep scale right for mini habitats. Cuttings root easily if pressed onto moist Strata or sandy soil. Regular trims prevent the plant from overwhelming smaller displays.
Repotting (Open Pots) — Repot only every 2–3 years, or when vines spill far beyond the pot. Choose a shallow container to avoid soggy soil. Use Liqui-Dirt® potting soil for the refresh and resume your weak-tea Liqui-Dirt feeding schedule.
