SAEDNEWS: If you’re looking to care for a hardy plant at home, the Jade Plant could be one of your best choices. As one of the most resilient indoor plants, the Jade Plant is very easy to maintain. In this report, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Jade Plant.
According to the Family Service of Saed News, many people enjoy keeping jade plants at home or in the workplace and regard them as symbols of good luck. You don’t need to be lucky to properly care for a jade plant; all you need is to understand its needs and provide the right conditions. The plant’s scientific name is Crassula ovata. Jade is actually a succulent, so it requires care similar to other succulents. However, this attractive, fleshy succulent is more resilient than many other succulents and can live for years if maintained under ideal conditions. Below, we explore the requirements for healthy growth of this plant.
Types of Jade Plants (Crassula)
Several Crassula species are commonly referred to as jade plants in greenhouses. The most common species is C. ovata, also known as C. argentea or C. portulacea. Colorful varieties, such as C. ovata ‘Tricolor’, also exist. These varieties require sunlight to develop their full coloration. Other species occasionally sold as jade plants include C. arborescens.
Growth and Care of Jade Plants
Although jade plants are hardy, they thrive and remain long-lasting with proper care. The following tips can help maintain their health and vigor.
Light Requirements
Jade plants are ideal for areas of the home with direct sunlight. To remain healthy and grow properly, they require at least four hours of sunlight daily or a consistently sunny location.
Watering
Watering needs vary between summer and winter. During winter, water the plant every two to three weeks. In summer, weekly watering is sufficient. Overwatering should be strictly avoided; if excess water is applied, allow the soil to absorb it gradually. Check soil moisture before watering: only water when the soil is dry.
Temperature
Jade plants thrive at 65–75°F and prefer direct sunlight. They are not cold-hardy and should be protected from frost. If temperatures drop below 50°F, move the plant to a warmer location. Short-term exposure to temperatures above 75°F is also acceptable.
Toxicity
While jade plants enhance any space aesthetically, they are toxic to children and pets. Contact or ingestion can cause nausea, fatigue, itching, or burning sensations.
Repotting
Jade plants grow slowly, so repotting is needed every two to three years. Repot when roots begin to emerge from the bottom of the pot. Choose a new pot only one size larger, as growth rate decreases in larger containers.
Pruning
Pruning is optional but helps maintain the plant’s appearance. Trim damaged leaves and selectively cut branches to encourage denser growth. The best time for pruning is late winter to early spring.
Propagation
Jade plants propagate easily from leaf or stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are more successful. Select a healthy stem at least 8 cm long, cut it cleanly, let it dry for a day, then plant it in soil and lightly water. Place in a bright, indirect light until roots establish, then transfer to conditions similar to the parent plant. For faster rooting, dip 1–2 cm of the cutting in powdered rooting hormone. Leaf cuttings can also root when placed flat on soil with light misting. Bend leaves downward to detach fully from the stem without cutting to improve rooting success.
Common Pests and Problems
Jade plants may face pests and diseases like other succulents. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. Mealybugs are the most common pest, particularly at leaf-stem junctions. Since jade plants are sensitive to insecticides and oils, remove pests gently using alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. Other issues may include spider mites or scale insects.
Leaf Wrinkling
Wrinkled leaves indicate water deficiency. Symptoms may include general drooping, which should improve quickly after watering.
Leaf Drop
Frequent leaf loss can signal insufficient light. Jade plants need at least six hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. If older leaves fall or stem growth is affected, the location may be too warm; move the pot to a slightly cooler place.
Yellowing Leaves
A few yellow leaves are normal, but widespread yellowing indicates overwatering. Check for root rot and reduce watering accordingly.
Red Leaves
Leaves turn red when exposed to excessive sunlight. While jade plants need direct sunlight to thrive, prolonged exposure can cause sunburn. Move the plant to a location with gentler light to resolve this issue.
Brown Stem
Brown, soft stems often indicate root rot caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Properly drain and dry the soil, and consider replacing it to eliminate fungal infections.
