How to Grow and Care for Jade Plants

Jade plants (Crassula ovata) are succulents with thick, glossy leaves and an easy-to-care-for nature. They are native to South Africa, but can be found in many homes around the world. These vibrant plants are a great addition to any home or garden, and with the right care, they can thrive for many years.

Overview

Whether you're a beginner looking to embark on your green thumb journey or an experienced gardener seeking to expand your collection, New York Garden will provide you with all the essential knowledge and practical tips to successfully grow and care for jade plants. From understanding their origins and preferred growing conditions to mastering watering techniques[1] and handling common issues, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of these fascinating plants.

Botanical Name	Crassula ovata
Common Name	Jade plant
Sun Exposure	Full sun
Soil Type	Well-drained
Soil pH	Neutral, acidic
Plant Type	Succulent, perennial
Mature Size	3–6 ft. tall, 2–3 ft. wide
Toxicity	Toxic to dogs and cats[2]
Flower Color	White
Family	Crassulaceae
Bloom Time	Spring

Types of Jade Plants

Jade plants are succulents that belong to the genus Crassula, which contains over 200 species. They are native to South Africa and have thick, fleshy leaves that are usually green, but can also be variegated, red, yellow, or blue. Jade plants are popular houseplants because they are easy to care for and can tolerate low light conditions. Some jade plants are also considered lucky and attract wealth and prosperity according to Feng Shui [3]. Here are some of the common types of jade plants:

Crassula ovata: This is the most common and recognizable type of jade plant, also known as money plant, dollar plant, or lucky plant. It has oval-shaped leaves that are jade-green and sometimes have red edges. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and produce white or pink flowers in winter.
Crassula arborescens: This type of jade plant is also known as silver dollar jade or Chinese jade. It has round, flat leaves that are silvery-green and have a powdery coating. It can grow up to 8 feet tall and produce pink or white flowers in summer.
Crassula exilis ssp. picturata: This type of jade plant is also known as tiger jade or zebra jade. It has small, triangular leaves that are green with dark red spots. It can grow up to 12 inches tall and produce white flowers in spring.
Crassula marnieriana: This type of jade plant is also known as jade necklace or worm plant. It has long, cylindrical leaves that are green with red tips. It can grow up to 18 inches tall and produce pink flowers in winter.

Jade Plant Care

Jade plants are succulents that can thrive in a variety of conditions. They are easy to grow and maintain, as long as you follow some basic guidelines. Here are some tips on how to care for your jade plant:

Watering

Jade plants need to be watered only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot and fungal infections. Water thoroughly and let the excess water drain out of the pot. Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can lead to leaf spots and diseases.

Lighting

Jade plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sun, but too much can scorch their leaves and cause them to drop. A south-facing or west-facing window is ideal for jade plants. If you keep your jade plant indoors, you may need to supplement with artificial light during the winter months.

Temperature

Jade plants are not frost-tolerant and should be kept above 50°F (10°C). They can handle temperatures up to 90°F (32°C), but they may become leggy and lose their compact shape. If you live in a cold climate, bring your jade plant indoors before the first frost.

Fertilizing

Jade plants do not need much fertilizer, as they are slow-growing and store nutrients in their leaves. You can feed your jade plant once or twice a year with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Do not fertilize your jade plant during the dormant period, which is usually from November to February.

Pruning

Jade plants can grow up to 3 feet (0.9 m) tall and wide, depending on the variety. You can prune your jade plant to shape it and encourage branching. Use sharp, sterile scissors or a knife to cut off unwanted stems or leaves. You can also propagate new jade plants from the cuttings by letting them dry for a few days and then planting them in moist soil.

Potting and Repotting Jade Plants

Jade plants are succulents that can thrive in a variety of conditions. They are easy to care for and can grow for many years. However, they may need to be repotted occasionally to maintain their health and appearance. Here are some tips on how to pot and repot jade plants.

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball of the jade plant. The pot should have drainage holes at the bottom and be made of a material that allows air circulation, such as terracotta or ceramic.
Use a well-draining potting mix that is suitable for succulents. You can make your own by mixing one part perlite, one part coarse sand, and two parts peat moss or compost.
Gently remove the jade plant from its old pot and shake off any excess soil. Inspect the roots for any signs of rot or damage and trim them if necessary.
Place some potting mix at the bottom of the new pot and position the jade plant in the center. Fill in the gaps with more potting mix, leaving about an inch of space from the top of the pot.
Water the jade plant thoroughly and let the excess water drain out. Place the pot in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight for a few days to allow the plant to adjust to its new environment.
Repot your jade plant every two to three years or when it becomes root-bound or overcrowded. You can also prune your jade plant to keep it compact and bushy.

How to Start a Jade Plant from a Leaf or Stem Cutting

Hey, plant lovers! Do you want to grow your own jade plant at home? Jade plants are succulents that are easy to care for and look great in any space. Plus, they are super easy to propagate from a leaf or stem cutting. Here's how you can do it in a few simple steps:

Choose a healthy leaf or stem from your jade plant. Make sure it's not damaged or diseased. You can use a sharp knife or scissors to cut it off, or just gently twist it until it snaps off.
Let the cutting dry for a few days until a callus forms over the cut end. This will prevent rotting and infection.
Fill a small pot with well-draining soil mix. You can use a cactus or succulent mix, or make your own by mixing equal parts of sand, perlite, and potting soil.
Stick the cutting into the soil, with the cut end facing down. You can bury it up to half of its length, or just enough to keep it upright.
Water the cutting lightly and place it in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight. Too much sun can burn the cutting and cause it to dry out.
Wait for roots to form. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the size and type of cutting. You can check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If it resists, it has rooted.
Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it to a bigger pot if you want, or just leave it in the same one. Water it when the soil feels dry, and fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a diluted succulent fertilizer.

Common Pests and Diseases of Jade Plants

Jade plants are succulents that are popular for their easy care and attractive appearance. However, they are not immune to pests and diseases that can affect their health and growth. Some of the most common problems that jade plants face are:

Mealybugs

These are small, white, fluffy insects that feed on the sap of jade plants. They can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To control mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or spray them with insecticidal soap.

Scale insects

These are brown, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of jade plants. They also suck the sap and weaken the plant. To control scale insects, scrape them off with a sharp knife or use a horticultural oil spray.

Spider mites

These are tiny, red or green spiders that spin fine webs on the undersides of jade plant leaves. They feed on the chlorophyll and cause speckled, discolored, and dry leaves. To control spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant and spray with a miticide or neem oil.

Fungal diseases

Jade plants can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, black spot, and root rot. These diseases can cause white or black spots, leaf drop, and rotting roots. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overwatering, provide good air circulation, and remove any infected parts.

Bacterial diseases

Jade plants can also suffer from bacterial diseases such as soft rot and leaf spot. These diseases can cause mushy, brown, or black spots on the leaves and stems. To prevent bacterial diseases, avoid injuring the plant, sterilize your tools, and use clean pots and soil.

FAQs

Can I propagate a jade plant?

Yes, jade plants are easy to propagate. Simply cut a stem or leaf from the plant and plant it in well-draining soil. The cutting will eventually grow roots and develop into a new plant.

How often should I fertilize my jade plant?

Jade plants do not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize once every six months with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

How do I get rid of the roots?

Once you have removed the roots from your plant, you can repot it. Cut the top off your jade and trim its roots. Remove the pot and wash the soil off the roots. Replant the jade.

How do I keep my jade plant healthy?

Keep your jade plant in a shady spot. When you water your plant, water from the bottom up. Water it when the top 1 inch of soil is dry. If you over-water it, it will get too much water, which will cause the leaves to turn yellow. Source: The New York Garden works under restricted procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies and studies conducted by academic organizations. Tertiary references should be avoided. For more information on how we ensure our material is correct and up to date, please visit our editorial policy.