If you’ve brought home a string of dolphins, you’re probably wondering about its light needs. Getting the string of dolphins light requirements right is the single most important thing you can do to keep your plant healthy and trailing beautifully. This charming succulent, with leaves that look like leaping dolphins, thrives when its lighting is just perfect. Let’s break down exactly what that means for your plant.
Light fuels its growth and keeps those dolphin shapes perky. Too little, and the plant gets weak. Too much, and it can get scorched. Finding the balance is simpler than you might think.
String of Dolphins Light Requirements
This plant needs bright, indirect light for most of the day. Think of the light in a spot near a sunny window but where the sun’s rays never directly touch the leaves. A south or east-facing window is often ideal, perhaps with a sheer curtain as a filter.
Direct morning sun is usually gentle enough, but harsh afternoon sun can be too intense. The goal is to mimic the dappled sunlight it would recieve in its native habitat.
What Does “Bright Indirect Light” Really Mean?
This term can be confusing. Here’s a simple way to test it. Place your hand where the plant sits on a sunny day. If you see a soft, fuzzy shadow, that’s bright indirect light. A sharp, defined shadow means direct sun. A very faint shadow likley means low light.
Bright indirect light is plentiful and consistent. It fills the room without being beamed directly on the foliage. Your dolphins will soak this up happily.
Signs Your Plant is Getting Too Much Light
Dolphins are sun-sensitive. Watch for these warnings:
- Sunburn: Dry, brown, crispy patches or spots on the top leaves.
- Color Change: Leaves turning a reddish or purple-ish shade, which is a stress response.
- Shriveling: The dolphin leaves may shrivel and dry out faster than usual, even with water.
If you see this, move the plant back from the window immediately. The damaged leaves won’t recover, but new growth will be healthy.
Signs Your Plant Isn’t Getting Enough Light
This is a more common problem, especially in winter. Look for:
- Leggy Growth: Long stretches of stem between leaves (internodal stretching). The plant is “reaching” for light.
- Loss of Form: The dolphin-shaped leaves start to flatten out, looking more like string of bananas.
- Slow or No Growth: The plant seems paused, especially during its growing season.
- Color Fading: Leaves become a paler, washed-out green.
A light-starved dolphin becomes weak and prone to overwatering issues.
Seasonal Light Adjustments
The sun’s intensity and position changes through the year. Your plant’s location might need to change too.
- Spring & Summer: The sun is stronger. You might need to pull your plant back from a south or west window or use a curtain. Monitor for scorching.
- Fall & Winter: The sun is weaker and days are shorter. Move your plant closer to the brightest window you have. A south-facing spot is perfect during these months.
Rotate the pot a quarter turn every time you water. This ensures all sides get even light and prevents lopsided growth.
Using Artificial Grow Lights
Don’t have a bright window? Grow lights are a fantastic solution. They’re essential for dark apartments or winter in northern climates.
Choose full-spectrum LED bulbs. They’re energy-efficient and don’t get too hot. Position the light about 6 to 12 inches above the plant. Leave it on for 12-14 hours a day, using a simple timer for consistency. Your dolphins will thrive under them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Perfect Spot
- Assess Your Windows: Figure out which direction they face. South gets the most intense light, East gets gentle morning sun, West gets strong afternoon sun, and North gets low light.
- Start with East or South: Place your string of dolphins near an east or south-facing window. If it’s south, keep it a few feet back or use a sheer curtain.
- Observe for 2 Weeks: Watch the plant closely. Look for signs of too much or too little light listed above.
- Adjust as Needed: If signs of stress appear, move it. Sometimes just a foot closer or farther makes all the difference.
Remember, its better to start with less light and move it closer, than to give it too much sun right away.
Common Light-Related Problems and Fixes
Light affects everything, including watering. Here’s how they connect.
- Overwatering + Low Light: This is the deadliest combo. The soil stays wet for too long, roots rot, and the plant collapses. Always reduce watering frequency when light levels are lower.
- Underwatering + High Light: In very bright spots, soil dries extremly fast. You may need to water more often, but always check the soil first.
The key is to let the soil dry out almost completely between waterings. Stick your finger in the top inch of soil. If it’s dry, it’s time to water.
FAQ: String of Dolphins Light Questions
Can string of dolphins live in low light?
No, not really. It will survive for a while but will become leggy, lose its shape, and eventually decline. It needs bright light to truly thrive.
How many hours of light does it need?
Aim for at least 6 hours of bright, indirect light daily. 8-10 hours is even better for robust growth.
Can it handle direct sun?
Limited direct morning sun (from an east window) is usually fine. Hot, direct afternoon sun will likely scorch the leaves. It’s best to err on the side of caution.
What’s the best window for a string of dolphins?
An east-facing window is often the perfect, low-risk choice. A south-facing window with some protection (like a curtain or distance) is also excellent.
Will it grow under a regular lamp?
A regular incandescent or household LED bulb won’t provide the right spectrum or intensity. You need a dedicated full-spectrum grow light for good results.
Getting the light right for your string of dolphins sets it up for success. With sufficient bright, indirect light, it will reward you with rapid, compact growth and a cascade of perfect little dolphins. Pay attention to its signals, adjust with the seasons, and don’t be afraid to use a grow light. Your efforts will be clearly visible in the health and beauty of your plant.