Jade plants (Crassula ovata), often called money plants or lucky plants, are beloved succulents known for their thick, glossy, jade-green leaves and easy-going nature. With the right care, these plants can live for decades, adding a touch of greenery to your home. This guide covers everything you need to know about jade plant care, from light and water to soil and propagation.
Jade Plant Care
Jade plants are perfect for beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts alike. Their compact size, attractive foliage, and low maintenance make them ideal for indoor spaces. Plus, they’re said to bring good luck and prosperity in feng shui, making them a popular gift.
Light Requirements
Jade plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can handle some direct sun. Here’s how to get it right:
- Ideal Spot: Place your jade plant near a south- or west-facing window where it gets at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Too Much Sun: Direct, intense sunlight for long periods can scorch leaves, causing brown spots. If you notice this, move the plant to a spot with filtered light.
- Too Little Light: Insufficient light leads to leggy growth as the plant stretches toward the sun. If your jade looks stretched, consider a grow light for supplemental brightness.
Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth on all sides.
Watering Needs
As succulents, jade plants store water in their leaves, making them drought-tolerant. Overwatering is their biggest enemy, so follow these tips:
- Water Sparingly: Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, typically every 2–3 weeks in spring and summer. In fall and winter, reduce watering to once a month.
- Drainage is Key: Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot. Never let the plant sit in standing water.
- Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves or a mushy stem indicate too much water. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
- Signs of Underwatering: Wrinkled or shriveled leaves suggest the plant needs a drink. Water thoroughly, and it should perk up within a few days.
Soil and Potting
Jade plants need well-draining soil to stay healthy. Here’s what to do:
- Soil Mix: Use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or make your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or sand in a 2:1 ratio.
- Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one to avoid excess moisture retention.
- Pot Material: Terracotta or clay pots are great because they allow moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of overwatering.
Temperature and Humidity
Jade plants prefer warm, dry conditions, mimicking their native South African environment:
- Temperature: Keep them in temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler nights but should be protected from frost.
- Humidity: Low to average household humidity is fine. Avoid placing them in humid areas like bathrooms, as excess moisture can lead to fungal issues.
In winter, keep your jade plant away from cold drafts or heating vents, which can dry it out.
Fertilizing
Jade plants don’t need frequent feeding, but a little fertilizer can boost growth:
- When to Fertilize: Feed every 2–3 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or a succulent-specific formula.
- How to Apply: Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the roots. Apply to moist soil for best absorption.
- Winter Care: Skip fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning keeps your jade plant compact and encourages bushy growth:
- When to Prune: Trim in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
- How to Prune: Use clean, sharp scissors to cut back leggy stems just above a leaf node. Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain health.
- Shaping: Pinch back new growth to encourage branching and a fuller appearance. Save healthy cuttings for propagation!
Propagation
Propagating jade plants is simple and rewarding. You can grow new plants from leaves or stem cuttings:
Water sparingly until roots establish, usually in 2–4 weeks.
Leaf Propagation:
Gently twist off a healthy leaf from the stem.
Let it dry for 1–2 days until the cut end forms a callus.
Place the leaf on well-draining soil, misting lightly every few days.
Roots and a tiny plantlet should form within a few weeks.
Stem Propagation:
Cut a 3–4-inch stem with clean scissors and let it callus for 1–2 days.
Plant the cutting in moist, well-draining soil.
Final Tips for Success
- Be patient—jade plants grow slowly but steadily.
- Avoid frequent repotting or moving the plant, as they prefer stability.
- Clean the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them shiny.
By following these jade plant care tips, you’ll enjoy a thriving, vibrant succulent that brings beauty and good vibes to your home for years to come. Happy gardening!
