Question
Hi, I was given a String of Beads (senecio rowleyanus) for Valentines. I adore them, as my mother had one.  Anyway, I've kept it in bright, indirect light.  I've not over-watered it, and I've not repotted it, even though it is root-bound.  Gradually the top of the plant (the little thin stems) has gotten brown, but the "beads" look fine.  I watered it this morning and thought I saw a puff of what must be powdery mildew.  I'll do anything to save this plant.  Please help, and thanks.

Answer
Penney,

It needs to be in a sunnier location. It is a succulent and likes full sun. If you think it has powdery mildew I would spray it with Lysol spray (generic is fine) every day for a week then twice a week for a month. That will kill powdery mildew. I would never repot it but I would use cuttings to try to get a second plant going in April. Then you have insurance that it won't die.It should be watered well no more than once a week.  Good luck.
                                        Darlene