Jade plant care

This popular succulent is very easy to care for. Its branching, woody stem gives it a tree-like shape. Its glossy dark green leaves are often edged in red, oval-shaped, and fleshy – especially if the Jade plant enjoys full sunlight. Dwarf or slow-growing varieties can be trained into highly resilient, uniquely shaped bonsai trees.

The Jade plant’s rounded leaves resemble coins, and according to folklore, as long as the plant thrives, the owner will live in prosperity. After a few years, small star-shaped flowers appear in winter, which turn pink as they fade.

It’s a slow-growing houseplant, but mature specimens can reach 3 - 5 feet (1 - 1.5 meters) in height. Many mistakenly refer to it as a baobab, but that is an entirely different plant. Unlike the baobab, names like succulent, Money tree, Crassula, Jade plant, and Jade tree are all valid synonyms for the Jade plant.

Jade plant Care

Jade plant care: requires well-draining soil, sunlight, fresh air, regular watering during the growing season, and cool, dry conditions during dormancy. If you want it to bloom, a restful winter period is essential, and in summer, if possible, keep it outdoors.

Light requirements for Jade plant

Since it’s vital for the Jade plant to receive some direct sunlight, the best place for it is on a windowsill. It has a high light requirement, as in its natural habitat it gets a lot of sun.

Jade plant loves direct sunlight and feels best in a spot where it receives at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily. Indoors, a south- or west-facing window is ideal. Although it can tolerate indirect light, prolonged lack of light may slow its growth and cause the stem to elongate.

In winter, overwinter it in a bright, cool place. After frost has passed, gradually acclimate the plant to outdoor conditions by keeping it in partial or full shade for a week or two, then move it into the sun.

In summer, it can be kept outdoors, but introduce it gradually to strong sunlight to prevent leaf burn.

Temperature requirements for Jade plant

Jade plant prefers average warmth from spring to autumn. Unlike most houseplants, succulents benefit from a noticeable difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures.

The ideal temperature from spring to autumn is 64 - 75 °F (18 - 24 °C), but it can tolerate a range of 59 - 86 °F (15 - 30 °C). In winter, keep your Jade plant in a cool, sunny spot: the ideal range is 50 - 54 °F (10 - 12 °C), but they can withstand down to 41 °F (5 °C). However, prolonged exposure below 41 °F (5 °C) can be harmful.

It does not tolerate frost. Protect it from drafts and sudden temperature changes, as these can stress the plant.

Watering needs for Jade plant

From spring to autumn, treat Jade plant like a regular houseplant: water it once every 1–2 weeks, when the soil begins to dry out. In winter, watering once a month is sufficient.

If kept in a low-light area, monitor whether new shoots appear weak, and if so, reduce watering frequency. A leggy plant will grow many new shoots and leaves in spring, but excessive watering can cause root rot.

The leaves do not need misting, but fresh air is important. In summer, keep it outdoors or near an open window.

Fertilizing Jade plant

When caring for a Jade plant, keep in mind that it has low nutrient requirements and can react poorly to over-fertilization. From spring to autumn, fertilize every 2–4 weeks. From November to February, fertilizing is not necessary, as the plant is in a dormant period.

Use fertilizer specifically for succulents and cacti, with low nitrogen content. These usually contain phosphorus and potassium in similar ratios, promoting root and leaf growth. You can also mix a small amount of compost into the soil, but be careful not to add too much, as it may burn the roots.

Planting and repotting Jade plant

Jade plant requires standard succulent soil (half to two-thirds soil, the rest coarse sand or gravel); pH is not very important. How often you repot depends on your goals. If you want the plant to grow larger, repotting every 1–2 years is beneficial.

If you want to keep it small, only repot when it outgrows its pot. It can also be trained as a bonsai—cut the roots back heavily during each repotting, place it back in the same pot, and prune the plant to your liking.

Pruning and shaping Jade plant

Thanks to its strong branching habit, you can shape the Jade plant however you wish. It can be cared for as a bushy plant, trained into a tree form, or even developed into a bonsai tree.

One small tip: if you want to train your succulent into a tree shape, remove any unwanted shoots that appear on the trunk or thicker branches immediately. This will make the trunk more attractive and avoid unnecessary scars from cutting back thicker growth.

Blooming of Jade Plant

When it comes to care, the biggest challenge is usually flowering. For some, Jade plant blooms every winter, while for others, it never does. What’s the reason? There’s no definitive answer.

If kept outdoors during frost-free periods, don’t bring it inside or move it to its winter location too early – it can tolerate the weather until frost, and by then, flower buds usually start to form.

Another factor is over-forcing... Toward the end of summer, let the tips of the shoots "mature" – avoid encouraging further growth with frequent watering and fertilization.

Jade Plant Crystals on Leaves

From time to time, small white spots or crystal-like formations may appear on the Jade plant’s leaves, right where the "hydathodes" – tiny pores – are located. This is a natural occurrence: minerals exit through these pores and crystallize as the water evaporates.

They can easily be removed, but it's not necessary. They don't harm the plant and aren't unattractive, just interesting. Don't panic, these are not mealybugs or pests!

Propagating Jade plant

Crassula ovata (Jade plant, Jade tree) is easy to propagate using several methods. The most common and simple ones are leaf propagation and stem cuttings.

Cuttings root easily. You can use either stem or leaf cuttings. It’s important to let the cuttings dry for a few days before planting them in soil. Water sparingly, and do not cover with glass or plastic.

Propagating Jade plant by Stem Cutting

To propagate by stem cutting, select a healthy shoot around 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) long. Remove the lower leaves. Let the cutting dry for 1–2 days so a callus (protective layer) can form at the cut surface.

Then plant the cutting about 1 inch (2–3 cm) deep in soil suitable for succulents. Keep the soil slightly moist after planting. Place the plant in a spot protected from direct sunlight. Roots will develop in 2–4 weeks, after which the plant will begin to grow.

Propagating Jade plant from a Leaf

To propagate Jade plant from a leaf, select a healthy, thick, mature leaf from the plant. Make sure to detach it cleanly at the base without damaging it. Allow the leaf to dry for 1–2 days in a dry, shaded spot so the cut surface forms a callus. This helps prevent rot.

After drying, place the leaf on top of the soil without pressing it in. The cut end should just touch the soil surface. Keep the soil moist and place the leaf in a bright spot out of direct sunlight. After 2–4 weeks, roots and small shoots will appear at the base. Once the new plants are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots.

Jade Plant Diseases, Pests and Causes of Decline

Jade plant is generally resilient, but it can still be affected by certain pests and diseases. Fungal and bacterial infections can occur occasionally.

Jade plant Diseases

Wounds, cuts, or damage on the leaves can lead to bacterial infections. Symptoms may include black, wet spots on the leaves or stem. Remove any damaged parts as soon as possible.

Powdery mildew-type fungal infections may occur in high humidity or poor airflow conditions. Symptoms include a white, powdery layer on the leaves. Try reducing humidity by increasing ventilation. Use fungicide if necessary.

Jade plant Pests

Root mealybugs, mealybugs, or mites may attack, typically appearing on leaves and stems, feeding on the plant's sap.

Systemic insecticides are the most effective to avoid spraying chemicals on the leaf surface. Neem oil is also a good natural alternative.

Environmental Factors and Improper Care of Jade plant

Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot. Symptoms may include soft, brown-edged leaves, slowed growth, or wilting. If root rot is suspected, remove damaged roots and replant in fresh soil. If the problem is severe, propagation from a healthy shoot or leaf may be the best option to save the plant.

If Jade plant drops leaves suddenly, especially in winter in heated rooms, it may be unavoidable if a cooler, brighter location isn't available. If possible, move the plant to a very bright spot where the temperature is lower. The combination of low light and warm indoor air is not ideal during winter.

Is Jade Plant Toxic?

Jade plant can be mildly toxic, especially to pets, and can also cause problems for sensitive individuals.

It is not highly toxic to humans but may cause skin irritation in those with sensitivities. If ingested in large quantities, it can lead to stomach issues. Keep out of reach of small children to avoid accidental chewing. Seek medical advice if symptoms occur.

It can be toxic to dogs and cats if chewed or ingested, potentially causing vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and weakness. In rare cases, confusion and coordination issues may occur.