String of Pearls with Iron Deficiency? Rare but Treatable
Senecio rowleyanus
Iron deficiency, commonly known as iron chlorosis, is a nutrient deficiency disorder where plants cannot access sufficient iron from the soil. While iron is typically abundant in soil, various soil conditions can limit plant uptake, resulting in characteristic yellowing of leaves while veins remain green.
ð Symptoms
- âĒ Yellowing of leaves (chlorosis) while veins remain green - most obvious symptom
- âĒ Yellowing starts at the tips of new growth and progresses to older leaves
- âĒ Severe cases show yellowing even in leaf veins
- âĒ Leaves may turn completely white in extreme deficiency
- âĒ Leaf edges may scorch and turn brown as cells die
- âĒ Poor overall growth and stunted development
- âĒ Leaf loss in advanced stages
â Possible Causes
- â High soil pH (above 7.0) restricting iron availability
- â Compacted or waterlogged soil limiting root oxygen
- â Clay soil lacking organic matter
- â Excessive phosphorus blocking iron uptake
- â Poor drainage and saturated soil conditions
- â Cold soil temperatures reducing iron absorption
- â Alkaline soil conditions
ð Treatment
Quick Fixes
Step 1
Apply chelated iron (FeEDDHA or FeEDTA) directly to soil around root zone
Step 2
Water thoroughly after application to activate chelates
Step 3
Spray foliage with ferrous sulfate solution (1-2 tablespoons per gallon) for rapid greening
Step 4
Repeat foliar application every 7-10 days until symptoms improve
Step 5
Follow up with soil application for sustained results
Organic Treatment
Step 1
Add 2-3 inches of organic compost around the plant base
Step 2
Mix composted manure into the top 6 inches of soil
Step 3
Apply iron-rich organic amendments like blood meal or fish emulsion
Step 4
Add peat moss to acidify soil and improve iron availability
Step 5
Mulch with organic material to maintain soil moisture and acidity
ðĄïļ Prevention
- â Choose appropriate soil for plant species (avoid lime soils for acid-loving plants)
- â Add well-rotted manure or compost to improve soil structure
- â Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging
- â Aerate compacted areas around plant base
- â Reduce watering in poorly draining areas
- â Control soil pH through amendments
- â Optimize phosphorus fertilization to prevent excess
- â Test soil regularly to monitor nutrient levels
ðą Care Guide: String of Pearls
ð§ How to Water
Use the soak and dry method - water thoroughly when soil is completely dry, then wait until it dries out again. Water weekly in spring/summer, every 2-3 weeks in winter. Overwatering causes root rot.
âïļ Lighting
Provide bright indirect light. South or west-facing windows are ideal. Avoid harsh midday direct sun which can scorch the beads. Use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
ðŠī Ideal Soil
Use well-draining cactus or succulent mix with extra perlite or coarse sand. A 1:1 ratio of cactus mix and perlite works well. Choose shallow pots with drainage holes - clay pots are preferred.