Why Is My String Of Dolphins Shriveling Up?

The string of dolphins is a succulent plant that is widely kept as a houseplant due to its dolphin-shaped pods. The pods of the plants are generally soft, squishy, and filled with water. However, once in a while, you may see your string of dolphins starting to dry up and shrivel.

It signifies that your plant is undergoing some form of stress, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious issues. So, it is very important to learn about the reasons that may lead to a shriveled up string of dolphins and help fix the problem .

Why is my string of dolphins shriveling up?

So, let us explore the reasons which may lead to a shriveled up string of dolphins –

  • Dehydration
  • Light
  • Temperature Issues

Dehydration

One of the primary reasons for a shriveled-up string of dolphins is dehydration of the plant. Since it is a succulent plant, it requires high amounts of water to grow well. The lack of adequate water may cause the plant to start drooping and drying out. Although shriveled leaves don’t mean immediate permanent damage, prolonged dehydration may cause severe damage to the plant.

Solution

The ideal solution is to regularly water the plant according to a given watering schedule. Provide sufficient water to keep the soil moist at all times. However, be careful not to overwater it as it can cause problems such as root rot. Cut off the stalks and leaves that have excessively dried up.

Light

The string of dolphin plants needs abundant, indirect sunlight for at least six hours each day. However, if left outside for a long duration under direct sunlight, it can get sunburnt. It damages the cells, and the plant cannot absorb the required nutrients. Slowly, the plant starts to shrivel up and dry out.

Solution

Grow your plant in an area of partial shade where it has access to the required sunlight but not too much of it. If you keep your plant indoors, place it near a south-facing window as it will help the place receive adequate light. You can also use a fluorescent bulb to provide the required light if the plant is in a place where it has no access to natural sunlight. If you have just bought the plant, allow gradual exposure to sunlight to allow it to adapt.

Temperature Issues

Both extreme heat and cold can cause serious damage to the tissues of your string of dolphins. Damaged tissues cannot assimilate the required nutrients and start to weaken. Over time, these plants start to dry out and shrivel up.

Solution

If your string of dolphins is kept outdoors , bring it inside during the days of extreme heat or cold and place it indoors. For indoor plants, remove it from near open windows or heat and cold radiating objects such as fireplaces, air conditioners, and fridges. Place it in rooms where the temperature is most likely to remain stable and doesn’t fluctuate too much.

Thus, these are the reasons which can lead to a shriveling string of dolphins plant and the steps to help nurture the plant back to health.

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