Jade plants (Crassula ovata) are beloved for their thick, glossy, green leaves and ability to thrive with minimal care, making them a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. Known as the "money plant" in Feng Shui, jade plants are often associated with good luck, prosperity, and positive energy.
While jade plants are hardy, they still require proper care to maintain their health and beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant parent, this guide will provide you with expert tips to help your jade plant flourish.
Choose the Right Pot with Good Drainage
The first step in jade plant care is selecting the right pot. Jade plants are susceptible to root rot, which occurs when their roots sit in waterlogged soil. A pot with proper drainage ensures excess water doesn’t accumulate.
Best Pot Options:
- Ceramic Planters: These are stylish and durable, allowing you to pair functionality with aesthetics. Ensure the ceramic planter has drainage holes at the bottom.
- Terracotta Pots: Their porous nature helps wick away excess moisture, keeping the soil dry.
- Plastic Planters: Lightweight and easy to move, but ensure drainage holes are present to prevent overwatering.
Pro Tip: Avoid pots that are too large, as jade plants prefer to be slightly root-bound.
Provide Plenty of Bright, Indirect Light
Do jade plants need sun? Absolutely. Jade plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, which promotes healthy growth and prevents the leaves from becoming leggy.
Lighting Tips:
- Place your jade plant near a south-facing window for optimal sunlight.
- Avoid exposing it to harsh, direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours, as this can scorch the leaves.
- If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights to supplement the plant’s light requirements.
Pro Tip: Rotate the plant every few weeks to ensure all sides receive equal light, encouraging symmetrical growth.
Water Sparingly and Allow Soil to Dry Between Waterings
Jade plants are succulents, meaning they store water in their leaves and stems. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes made by jade plant owners.
How Often Should You Water a Jade Plant?
- Water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel completely dry to the touch.
- During the growing season (spring and summer), you might water every 2-3 weeks. In winter, reduce watering to once a month or less.
- Avoid letting the plant sit in water by always emptying the saucer beneath the pot.
Signs of Overwatering:
- Yellowing leaves
- Dropping leaves
- Soft, mushy stems
Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to control water flow, especially when using indoor planters.
Use Well-Draining Soil for Healthy Roots
The type of soil you use can make a big difference in the health of your jade plant. Since jade plants dislike sitting in wet soil, a well-draining mix is essential.
Best Soil Mix for Jade Plants:
- Use a commercial cactus or succulent mix, which is designed to drain quickly.
- You can also make your own mix by combining 2 parts potting soil, 1 part coarse sand, and 1 part perlite or pumice.
Pro Tip: Add a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pot to further improve drainage.
Fertilize During the Growing Season
Fertilizing your jade plant provides essential nutrients to support its growth and vibrant leaves.
Fertilization Tips:
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, such as a 10-10-10 formula.
- Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter, as the plant enters dormancy and doesn’t require extra nutrients.
Pro Tip: Over-fertilizing can harm your jade plant, so always follow the recommended dosage.
Prune to Maintain Shape and Remove Dead Leaves
Pruning is an essential part of jade plant care to keep the plant healthy, compact, and visually appealing.
How to Prune a Jade Plant:
- Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent damage or infection.
- Trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
- Remove yellowing or dead leaves to redirect energy to healthier parts of the plant.
- If you notice your jade plant becoming top-heavy, prune it to prevent it from tipping over.
Pro Tip: Pruning can also help shape your jade plant into a small tree-like structure, adding a unique aesthetic to your space.
Jade plants are not only beautiful additions to your indoor garden but also incredibly rewarding to care for. By following these expert tips—choosing the right pot, providing adequate light, watering sparingly, using well-draining soil, fertilizing appropriately, and pruning when necessary—you can ensure your jade plant thrives for years to come.
Whether displayed in elegant ceramic planters or paired with other succulents, jade plants bring a touch of nature and charm to any home. With proper care, they’ll reward you with lush, vibrant leaves and perhaps even small, star-shaped flowers as a token of your effort.
Now that you know how to take care of a jade plant, it’s time to bring one into your home and enjoy the beauty and benefits it offers. Shop the best planters for your jade plant from thinKitchen.