Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Care for a jade plant is simple and easy. People like to keep jade plants in their homes and workplaces because they are thought to bring good luck. You don’t have to be lucky to learn how to take care of and keep Jade plants healthy. Read on to find out how to take care of a jade plant.
Jade Plant Care Tips & Growing Guide
It’s easy to learn how to take care of and keep a Jade plant (Crassula ovata). When growing jade houseplants, the most important things to think about are water, light, temperature, and fertilizer.
Water
Making sure jade plants get enough water is one of the most important things you can do for them. Don’t ever let a jade plant get too dry. Also, don’t water a jade plant too often, because that can lead to root rot. Don’t plan when to water your jade plant. Instead, water your jade plant when you can feel the top of the soil is just a little bit dry. Most of the time, a jade plant that is losing leaves or has spots on its leaves is not getting enough water.
Light
How much sun jade plants get is another important part of how to care for and keep them alive. For them to grow well, they need full sun. If they don’t get enough sun, they might grow short and thin.
Humidity
Jade plants thrive in high-humidity environments. This is because they originate from semi-desert regions where there is often morning dew. By recreating a similar environment, you can help your jade plant to grow and flourish. One way to increase the humidity around your plant is to mist it regularly with water. You can also set the pot on a tray of pebbles and water, which will help to create a humid microclimate around the plant.
Feeding
For appropriate Jade plant care, nourish your jade plant only every six months. Use a balanced fertilizer that can dissolve in water. It’s important to remember that you should water your jade plant the normal way and then water it again with the water from the fertilizer. Don’t give your jade plant fertilizer when the soil is dry, because this will hurt the roots.
Temperature
Care instructions for Jade plants say that they do best in temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius) during the day and 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 13 degrees Celsius) at night. Still, if they get a lot of Sun, they will be fine even if the temperature is higher than this.
Repotting
Every three to five years, your jade plant will need to be repotted. The frequency depends on how quickly your plant is growing and how rootbound it has become. You’ll know it’s time for a new pot when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant starts to lean to one side. When repotting, be sure to choose a pot that is only one size larger than the current one.
If the pot is too large, the soil will stay wet for too long and root rot could develop. Water the plant a few days before repotting to help make the roots easier to work with. Gently remove the jade plant from its current pot and loosen any compacted roots before placing it in the new pot. Fill in around the plant with fresh potting mix, being careful not to bury the stem. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Propagating
- Even if the roots are crowded in a small pot, jade plants don’t mind. In fact, keeping them close to their roots will keep the jade smaller and easier to handle.
- Every two to three years, move young jade plants to a bigger pot to help them grow. When repotting older jade, do it every 4 to 5 years or as needed.
- Plant at the beginning of spring, right before the growing season starts.
- After putting the plant in a new pot, don’t water it for about a week. Wait at least a month before fertilizing so you don’t accidentally burn the roots.
Toxicity
While the jade plant is not poisonous to humans, it can be harmful to pets if ingested. The plant contains a compound called saponin, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Symptoms of jade plant toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. In severe cases, saponin can cause liver damage. If you suspect that your pet has ingested a jade plant, seek veterinary care immediately.
Common Pests And Diseases
Some common problems include root rot, mealybugs, and spider mites. Root rot is caused by overwatering and can lead to the death of the plant. Mealybugs are small white insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth.
Spider mites are tiny red or black spiders that spin webs on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop off. While these pests and diseases can be problematic, they can often be controlled with proper care and treatment. With a little effort, your jade plant can remain healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Common Problems
One of the most common issues is mealybug infestation. These sap-sucking pests can cause the leaves of the jade plant to turn yellow and may eventually lead to leaf drops. To control mealybugs, regularly inspect your plant and remove any pests you find by hand. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to treat more severe infestations.
Another issue that can affect jade plants is improper watering. These plants are very sensitive to overwatering, and too much moisture can lead to root rot. Be sure to only water your jade plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. If you notice yellowing leaves or wilting, this is a sign that your plant is not getting enough water.
Finally, jade plants are susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and stem rot. These problems are often caused by high humidity levels or wet leaves. To prevent fungal diseases, water your plant at the base instead of wetting the leaves
FAQ
What Are The Ideal Growing Conditions For A Jade Plant?
Jade plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. They should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry and allowed to dry out completely between waterings. Jade plants can tolerate some drought, but too little water will cause the leaves to drop.
What Are The Potential Problems With Jade Plants?
Jade plants are susceptible to root rot, mealybugs, and scale. Root rot is caused by over-watering, so it is important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Mealybugs and scale can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
What Are The Benefits Of Jade Plants?
Besides being easy to care for, jade plants have a number of benefits. They help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, and they can also help to reduce noise levels. Additionally, jade plants are believed to bring good luck in many cultures.
Final Thoughts
The jade plant is an excellent addition to any home. They are easy to care for and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance houseplant that will liven up any room, the jade plant is a great option.