Succulents have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with houseplants being no exception. Jade plant (Crassula ovata) has long been a favorite of houseplant enthusiasts for its round fleshy leaves, distinct tree-like form, and undemanding nature.
Also known as lucky plant, money plant or money tree, jade plant signifies luck, prosperity and friendship in many Asian cultures. It’s considered good feng shui to keep a jade plant by the front door to welcome money into the home. These revered plants are often given as housewarming or congratulatory gifts.
Though jade plant is grown primarily as a houseplant, it will also thrive outdoors as an evergreen perennial shrub in warmer regions. Learn how to grow these easy-care plants and explore different varieties here.
Jade plant grows best in a mix of direct sun and bright indirect light for best vigor and foliage color. Allow at least 4-6 hours of direct sun, providing protection during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn. If growing jade plants indoors, place them in a south or east-facing window that receives at least 4 hours of bright light. Jade plant is somewhat tolerant of lower light levels.
Upright or mounding habit, 3 to 12 feet tall and 2 to 6 feet wide. Houseplants stay smaller.
Thick fleshy leaves can be round, oval, irregular or crinkled, occurring in colors of green, gold, silver-blue and variegated, often with red or burgundy highlights.
Clusters of tiny star-shaped white or pale pink flowers bloom from winter to early spring, with some varieties blooming later. Flowers only occur on indoor specimens if they get enough light.
Jade plants are mildly toxic to humans, causing nausea if ingested and mild skin irritation for sensitive individuals. All parts of the plant are mildly to highly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.
Jade plants can be grown indoors as houseplants, or outside year-round in warmer regions. Houseplants benefit from being moved outdoors in summer, responding to the additional sunlight and warmer weather with increased vigor, growth, and color. Move to an area such as a patio or porch that receives some direct sun, acclimating slowly to prevent shock and foliage burn. Bring back indoors in fall when nighttime temperatures drop to 50 degrees F.
Though they prefer dry conditions, jade plants are tolerant of higher humidity. Ideal indoor temperature range is 65-75 degrees F, with nighttime temperatures down to 55 degrees F. Avoid extremes, which can stress or kill plants.
Jade plants need good drainage to prevent root rot. They will tolerate native soils that are rocky or sandy. For houseplants or outdoor containers, use a cactus or succulent potting mix and add an equal amount of pumice or perlite to improve drainage. Jade plants prefer a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH, but are tolerant of different pH levels.
Make sure pots have adequate drainage. Terracotta clay pots are more porous, allowing soil to dry out quicker, which helps prevent root rot. If using ceramic or plastic pots, make sure there is adequate drainage and water less frequently. Larger specimens, which can become top heavy, will need heavier pots to keep them from tipping over.
Jade plant is easily propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Stem propagation tends to be quicker and with a higher rate of success. Propagate during warmer months and use cuttings that are healthy and disease-free.
Jade plants die far more often to overwatering than underwatering. Their fleshy leaves act as a water reservoir. Water thoroughly and allow to dry out completely in-between watering. Water every 7 to 14 days, more frequently in summer when the weather is warmer. Reduce watering in fall and winter when plants enter a period of semi-dormancy.
Jade plants are light feeders. Apply a mild all-purpose organic fertilizer in early to mid-spring when plants are coming out of semi-dormancy. Fertilize at half-strength every 1 to 2 months during the growing season.
Plants can be allowed to retain their natural shape or pruned into bonsai. Because jade plants store water in their leaves, older plants can become top heavy and unable to support the extra weight, so will benefit from pruning.
Wait until plants are at least a year old before pruning. The best time to prune is spring to early summer, when plants begin a new growth spurt. Because pruning can leave plants susceptible to disease, make sure pruning tools are sterile, and prune sparingly. Tools should be sharp to prevent tissue damage.
Avoid cutting the main trunk, which can severely damage or kill the plant. Cut drooping branches back to the trunk to encourage more robust growth. Thin branches as needed to increase the amount of light and air circulation. To shape, trim any errant branches just above a leaf node. Cut branches can be propagated into new plants.
Jade plants are slow growing and prefer to be somewhat pot bound. They will only need occasional repotting, every 2 to 3 years for younger plants and 4 to 5 years for mature specimens. Repot in spring when plants are beginning a new growth spurt and use a new pot that is only slightly larger.
The most common pests found on jade plant are mealybugs. Other pests can include aphids, spider mites, or scale. Rinse foliage with water to remove most of the pests. Allow to dry, then wipe leaves with a cotton ball or swab dipped in 70% rubbing alcohol to kill remaining pests. Repeat as needed. The use of horticultural oils and insecticides is not recommended.
The baby jade plant, known botanically as Crassula ovata, is a small succulent shrub native to South Africa. With its oval-shaped jade green leaves and tree-like appearance, this plant can make a unique and striking addition to an outdoor garden. Baby jade plants are easy to care for, but they have some specific needs when grown outside.
Follow this comprehensive guide to get your baby jade plant thriving in your outdoor space. We’ll provide tips on ideal growing conditions, planting, soil requirements, sunlight, watering, fertilization, overwintering, and more. With proper care, your baby jade will flourish outdoors, adding vibrant color and unique texture to your garden.
Selecting the Ideal Outdoor Location
When choosing where to plant your baby jade, opt for a site that receives plenty of bright sunlight. These succulents thrive best with 5-6 hours of full sun daily. Dappled shade under a tree is suitable too. Avoid dark, perpetually shady areas of the garden.
Also consider protection from wind, which can damage tender leaves and stems. If needed, use a trellis or windbreak to shelter your jade plant.
Plant baby jades outdoors after any danger of frost has passed in spring, They require warm temperatures above 50°F to grow well
Preparing the Right Soil
Baby jade plants need a very fast-draining soil to prevent soggy conditions that lead to root rot. The ideal texture is sandy gritty and loose. To amend garden soil, mix in
- Coarse sand or small gravel – Allows drainage
- Perlite or pumice – Creates aeration
- Compost – Provides nutrients
Avoid using heavy clay garden soil which doesn’t drain well. Also resist adding moss or peat which hold moisture excessively.
Create mounds or raised beds to improve drainage if you have compacted native soil that is slow to drain.
Planting Your Outdoor Baby Jade
Dig a hole the same depth as the pot and about twice as wide. Gently loosen any circling roots before placing the plant in the hole. Backfill with your amended soil mix, packing periodically as you fill.
Create a shallow basin shape around the plant to help direct water to the roots. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Add a layer of mulch like gravel around the base to retain moisture and limit weeds.
Space baby jade plants 2-3 feet apart to allow air circulation and light penetration as they grow.
Providing Adequate Sun and Water
Once planted, baby jade plants are quite drought tolerant and need infrequent watering. Wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry before watering deeply. Avoid frequent shallow waterings which lead to unhealthy shallow roots.
While jades don’t mind some shade, optimal growth requires 4-6 hours of direct sun or very bright indirect light daily. Supplement with grow lights if needed. Insufficient light causes leggy, weak growth.
Let your jade plant acclimate for 2-3 weeks after planting. Then begin fertilizing monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Stop feeding after September so plants harden off before winter dormancy.
Protecting Plants in Winter
Baby jade plants can tolerate light frosts but need protection when temperatures dip below 30°F. In zone 9 and warmer, they can remain in the garden year-round.
In colder zones, you have two options for overwintering your outdoor jade plant:
-
Dig it up – Carefully remove the plant before frost hits. Repot it in a container and overwinter it indoors in a sunny window.
-
Heavily mulch – Mound a 6-8 inch protective layer of bark, leaves, straw or other organic mulch over the soil surrounding your plant.
Potted jades kept outside should be moved into an unheated garage or covered patio over winter. Provide grow lights to maintain dormant plants until spring.
Avoiding Common Problems
Here are some issues to watch for and how to remedy them:
- Leggy growth – Increase sunlight exposure and prune as needed
- Leaf drop – Reduce watering frequency and improve drainage
- Mealybugs/scale – Wipe pests off with alcohol-soaked cotton swab
- Sunburned leaves – Gradually acclimate plant to increased sunlight
Tips for a Gorgeous Outdoor Baby Jade
- Amend soil with sand, perlite or gravel to improve drainage
- Plant in raised beds if native soil doesn’t drain quickly
- Shelter from strong winds which can damage tender stems
- Water thoroughly only after top inch of soil is dry
- Apply light monthly fertilization during active growing season
- Overwinter indoors or heavily mulched in cold climates
With proper siting, soil preparation, sunlight, watering, fertilization, pest prevention and winter protection, your baby jade plant will thrive outdoors. Follow these tips for a healthy, vibrant jade that adds unique beauty and visual interest to your garden all season long.
TROUBLESHOOTING JADE PLANT PROBLEMS
Jade plants have few insect, disease, or cultural problems when grown in the right conditions. Here are some things to look for:
Leaf spots, wrinkled, shriveled or dropped leaves can be an indication of underwatering. Water plants thoroughly and allow to dry out completely in between waterings.
Soft squishy leaves are a symptom of overwatering, which can lead to other problems such as root rot. Reduce watering and allow soil to dry out completely in between waterings.
Stunted or leggy plants are an indication of not enough light. Place plants in a window that gets at least several hours of direct sunlight or use grow lights.
Black rings on the underside of leaves are a sign of black ring disease. This virus does not kill plants and there is no effective treatment. Remove affected leaves and dispose in the garbage to prevent virus spread. Don’t propagate affected leaves.
Yellow or pale green leaves can occur when a plant is overgrown. Remove sickly, scraggly and crossing branches back to the trunk so the plant can put energy back into rejuvenation.
White spots on leaves can indicate excess salt, overwatering, powdery mildew or mealy bugs. Identify the problem and treat accordingly.
Blisters that appear on lower leaves or dropped leaves can be a sign of root rot, which can kill plants. Reduce watering and make sure pots have adequate drainage. Add extra sand or perlite to soil to improve drainage.
Brown and mushy plant tissue can be a symptom of bacterial soft rot, which can cause plants to collapse and die. Even though only part of the plant may look infected, it is best to get rid of the whole plant.
Scabby areas on leaves or a dusty white coating can be a sign of powdery mildew. Apply a fungicide or home remedy made from baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or milk. Make sure plants receive adequate light and air circulation, and don’t overwater.
Dark spots on foliage can be a sign of fungal disease. Treat with a fungicide or home remedy. Make sure plants receive adequate light and air circulation, and don’t overwater.
Droopy leaves can be an indication that plants have been exposed to cold temperatures. Bring into warmer conditions and watch to see if branches revive. Cut off any foliage that doesn’t recover.
Designing with SucculentsHow to incorporate succulents and cacti into your garden design
Photo by: Vellicos / Shutterstock
Succulents have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with houseplants being no exception. Jade plant (Crassula ovata) has long been a favorite of houseplant enthusiasts for its round fleshy leaves, distinct tree-like form, and undemanding nature.
Also known as lucky plant, money plant or money tree, jade plant signifies luck, prosperity and friendship in many Asian cultures. It’s considered good feng shui to keep a jade plant by the front door to welcome money into the home. These revered plants are often given as housewarming or congratulatory gifts.
Though jade plant is grown primarily as a houseplant, it will also thrive outdoors as an evergreen perennial shrub in warmer regions. Learn how to grow these easy-care plants and explore different varieties here.
Native to South Africa and Mozambique
Zones 9-12, depending on the species
Jade plant grows best in a mix of direct sun and bright indirect light for best vigor and foliage color. Allow at least 4-6 hours of direct sun, providing protection during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn. If growing jade plants indoors, place them in a south or east-facing window that receives at least 4 hours of bright light. Jade plant is somewhat tolerant of lower light levels.
Upright or mounding habit, 3 to 12 feet tall and 2 to 6 feet wide. Houseplants stay smaller.
Thick fleshy leaves can be round, oval, irregular or crinkled, occurring in colors of green, gold, silver-blue and variegated, often with red or burgundy highlights.
Clusters of tiny star-shaped white or pale pink flowers bloom from winter to early spring, with some varieties blooming later. Flowers only occur on indoor specimens if they get enough light.
Jade plants are mildly toxic to humans, causing nausea if ingested and mild skin irritation for sensitive individuals. All parts of the plant are mildly to highly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.
Jade plant growing outdoors. Photo by: svf74 / Shutterstock.
Jade plants can be grown indoors as houseplants, or outside year-round in warmer regions. Houseplants benefit from being moved outdoors in summer, responding to the additional sunlight and warmer weather with increased vigor, growth, and color. Move to an area such as a patio or porch that receives some direct sun, acclimating slowly to prevent shock and foliage burn. Bring back indoors in fall when nighttime temperatures drop to 50 degrees F.
Though they prefer dry conditions, jade plants are tolerant of higher humidity. Ideal indoor temperature range is 65-75 degrees F, with nighttime temperatures down to 55 degrees F. Avoid extremes, which can stress or kill plants.
Jade plants need good drainage to prevent root rot. They will tolerate native soils that are rocky or sandy. For houseplants or outdoor containers, use a cactus or succulent potting mix and add an equal amount of pumice or perlite to improve drainage. Jade plants prefer a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH, but are tolerant of different pH levels.
Make sure pots have adequate drainage. Terracotta clay pots are more porous, allowing soil to dry out quicker, which helps prevent root rot. If using ceramic or plastic pots, make sure there is adequate drainage and water less frequently. Larger specimens, which can become top heavy, will need heavier pots to keep them from tipping over.
Jade plant is easily propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Stem propagation tends to be quicker and with a higher rate of success. Propagate during warmer months and use cuttings that are healthy and disease-free.
- For stem cuttings: With a clean sharp knife, cut a stem a few inches long just above a leaf node. Remove lower leaves and allow the cut end to dry and form a callous. Small white roots will begin to develop after several weeks. Dip the rooted end in rooting hormone and place in a small pot or tray with a mix of equal parts perlite and potting soil. Water sparingly. Once roots are established, treat as you would a normal jade plant.
- For leaf cuttings: With a clean sharp knife, snip off individual leaves flush to the stem. Allow to dry for up to several weeks. When small white roots develop, the leaf will begin to shrivel and turn brown. Place the roots in a mix of equal parts perlite and potting soil. Water sparingly until you see a tiny new stem and leaf emerge. When plants reach several inches tall, treat as you would a normal jade plant.
Jade plants die far more often to overwatering than underwatering. Their fleshy leaves act as a water reservoir. Water thoroughly and allow to dry out completely in-between watering. Water every 7 to 14 days, more frequently in summer when the weather is warmer. Reduce watering in fall and winter when plants enter a period of semi-dormancy.
Jade plants are light feeders. Apply a mild all-purpose organic fertilizer in early to mid-spring when plants are coming out of semi-dormancy. Fertilize at half-strength every 1 to 2 months during the growing season.
Plants can be allowed to retain their natural shape or pruned into bonsai. Because jade plants store water in their leaves, older plants can become top heavy and unable to support the extra weight, so will benefit from pruning.
Wait until plants are at least a year old before pruning. The best time to prune is spring to early summer, when plants begin a new growth spurt. Because pruning can leave plants susceptible to disease, make sure pruning tools are sterile, and prune sparingly. Tools should be sharp to prevent tissue damage.
Avoid cutting the main trunk, which can severely damage or kill the plant. Cut drooping branches back to the trunk to encourage more robust growth. Thin branches as needed to increase the amount of light and air circulation. To shape, trim any errant branches just above a leaf node. Cut branches can be propagated into new plants.
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth every few months to keep foliage looking fresh.
Jade plants are slow growing and prefer to be somewhat pot bound. They will only need occasional repotting, every 2 to 3 years for younger plants and 4 to 5 years for mature specimens. Repot in spring when plants are beginning a new growth spurt and use a new pot that is only slightly larger.
The most common pests found on jade plant are mealybugs. Other pests can include aphids, spider mites, or scale. Rinse foliage with water to remove most of the pests. Allow to dry, then wipe leaves with a cotton ball or swab dipped in 70% rubbing alcohol to kill remaining pests. Repeat as needed. The use of horticultural oils and insecticides is not recommended.
how to grow a jade into a tree | 5 IMPORTANT TIPS
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