How to Grow and Care for Variegated String of Hearts

Plant Care

Variegated String of Hearts is quite easy to care for, especially when you put it in a location where it receives bright, indirect sunlight and it’s allowed to dry out between waterings. Because it's a semi-succulent, overwatering is more dangerous than underwatering. Use a hanging pot or a high shelf so its trailing vines can cascade freely. 

The plant loves warmth and humidity, but it will also tolerate drier indoor air if it’s not located too close to heat sources or drafts.

You can feed it lightly once a month during spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. When the plants naturally slow their growth in fall and winter, avoid fertilization. If the vines become overly long or sparse, you can easily propagate and refresh it for a fuller look.

Light

This plant does best in moderate to bright indirect light. A spot by an east or west-facing window is ideal. Too little light will cause the variegation to fade and leaf spacing to become leggy. Also, direct sun, particularly with midday sun, can scorch the delicate leaves.

If the plant is under grow lights, provide 12 and 14 hours per day, and it will be lush and happy.

Soil

To avoid root rot, use a well-draining mix. Plant into a cactus or succulent soil mix or make your own by combining potting soil with perlite and coarse sand.  It should be light and airy and never hold moisture for extended periods of time. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0–7.0) is ideal.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 inches of soil is completely dry. The tuberous, fleshy roots hold water, so it’s best to err on the dry side. During spring and summer, watering may be needed every 7–10 days. Reduce watering in fall and winter. Always use a pot that has good drainage holes, and never let it stand in water.

Pruning

Pruning Variegated String of Hearts will help shape the plant, help it grow fuller, and give you new vines to propagate with. Here’s how to handle it:

• When to prune: In the spring or early summer, when the plant is in active growth.
• What to prune: Snip long, leggy vines to encourage new growth from the base.
• Remove: Remove any damaged or yellow leaves to maintain health.
• Tip: Use sharp, sterilized scissors, and prune just above a node.

Bonus: Regular trimming= bushier plant with more cascading vines.

Propagating

One of the easiest houseplants to propagate, String of Hearts offers multiple methods:

Water method:

• Cut healthy vines just beneath a node.
• Remove bottom leaves and place in water.
• Roots develop in 1–2 weeks; transplant into soil as soon as they are established

Soil method:

• Place vine loops directly on moist soil.
• Secure with a pin or paperclip.
• Roots arise from nodes and can be cut off as new plants.

Tuber propagation:

• Small bulb-like tubers sometimes form on vines.
• Carefully separate and plant in soil; keep lightly moist until growth appears.

Growing in Pots

You can grow Variegated String of Hearts in pots as well. To do it:

• For maximum visual impact, opt for a hanging pot or shelf.
• Choose containers with good drainage.
• Repot every 2–3 years, or when rootbound.
• Avoid heavy or deep pots—this plant prefers shallow roots.
• Use ceramic or terracotta to allow for better airflow around the roots.

Overwintering

Variegated String of Hearts is not frost hardy and should be kept indoors year round in cooler climates. In winter, water lightly, avoid fertilizer and keep in a bright, warm spot. It can go semi-dormant, growing more slowly or dropping some leaves, which is normal and nothing to worry about.

Blooming

Although grown primarily for its foliage, the plant can occasionally produce small, tubular, purplish-pink flowers that look like tiny lanterns. These blooms are quirky and fascinating, although not especially fragrant. A good light and care will  increase the chances of flowering.

Common Issues

Despite its easygoing nature, a few problems may pop up if conditions aren't good. Most are easy to fix:

• Yellowing leaves → Typically overwatering or drainage issue.
• Leggy growth → Not enough light, place the plant in a brighter location.
• Pale leaves → Might mean your plant needs nutrients!
• Root rot → Always brought on by excessive moisture; check for soggy soil.
• Pests → You may see Aphids, Mealy bugs, Spider mites – wipe with alcohol or treat with neem oil.

Summary

With its romantic vines, heart-shaped leaves, and painterly splashes of pink and white, Variegated String of Hearts is not just another pretty plant — it’s a living story.Easy to care for and even easier to love, this charming trailing plant is perfect for windowsills, hanging baskets, or trailing across bookshelves.  Provide it with some light, keep it dry between waterings, and you can have a cascade of hearts for years to come.