Having studied organic farming, I enjoy trying out new cultivation methods and other gardening experiments with friends in our community garden. I care deeply about exploring sustainable and mindful approaches to working with nature. This is my biggest passion, but I am also a real ornamental plant enthusiast! Favourite fruit: strawberry, mango, guava Favourite vegetables: artichoke, tomato, rocket
In order for a money plant to keep its shape, it must be regularly pruned. Here, you can learn what to look for when pruning jade plants.
Who would not like to have a jade plant (Crassula ovata) – also known as money plant – of their own? Unfortunately, this little tree does not grow banknotes, but it does have some very decorative leaves. In addition, the plant is considered easy to care for and prune. Even though the jade plant does not require regular pruning, there are plenty of reasons to reach for the scissors on occasion. For example, with proper pruning, the tree can be grown into an ornamental shrub, high trunk or even a bonsai. Below, we’ll tell you all about possible reasons for pruning jade plants, the right time to do it, and proper pruning procedures.
The baby jade plant, also known by its scientific name Crassula ovata, is a popular succulent houseplant revered for its rounded, fleshy leaves and easy propagation. Native to South Africa, jade plants are relatively easy to care for indoors. Their versatility and aesthetic appeal make them a staple in many homes and offices.
When cared for properly, jade plants will produce pups or offshoots which can be harvested to propagate new baby jade plants Knowing the optimal timing and proper techniques for harvesting these baby jade plantlets is key for successful propagation
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about harvesting baby jade plants, including:
- Ideal timing for harvesting pups
- Step-by-step propagation techniques using leaf and stem cuttings
- Aftercare and troubleshooting tips for your harvested cuttings
- Frequently asked questions about propagating baby jade plants
Follow these simple guidelines for the best results harvesting and propagating new jade plants for your indoor garden or as gifts for fellow plant lovers
When is the Best Time to Harvest Baby Jade Plants?
Baby jade plants can technically be harvested year-round, but spring and summer are the ideal seasons for propagation. During the peak growing period, mother plants produce more vigorous pups that root quickly when harvested.
Look for baby jade plantlets that are at least 2-3 inches tall with well-established roots before harvesting. The pups should have several sets of leaves to sustain growth once separated from the parent plant. Avoid harvesting after late summer, when plants begin going dormant.
Harvesting in spring and summer takes advantage of the long warm days that will aid rooting of your cuttings after potting up. The active growth period also allows the developing plants to focus energy on establishing roots and leaves rather than going dormant.
Step-By-Step Guide to Harvesting Baby Jade Leaves
The easiest way to propagate baby jade plants is by taking leaf cuttings. Follow these simple steps:
1. Select a Healthy Leaf
Examine the mother plant and choose a healthy, unblemished leaf to use for propagation. Avoid leaves that are damaged, diseased, or overly plump with water storage.
The best leaves for propagation are mature ones that have completed growth but are still firm and not shriveled.
2. Twist Off the Leaf
Gently grasp the base of the leaf and twist back and forth while pulling away from the stem. The leaf should snap off cleanly at the junction where it attaches to the plant.
3. Allow Leaf to Callus
After harvesting the leaf, lay it in a dry, shaded location for 1-2 days. This allows the broken end to callus over (seal) to prevent rotting when potted up.
4. Dip End in Rooting Hormone
Once callused, dip the severed end of the leaf about 1⁄2 inch deep into a rooting hormone powder. Tap off any excess powder.
5. Pot in Soil
Plant the hormone-dipped end of the leaf in a small pot filled with well-draining cactus/succulent soil mix. Gently firm the soil around the leaf.
6. Water and Provide Light
Water the planted leaf lightly, then place in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct hot sun which can burn the leaf.
Within a few weeks, roots and baby plantlets will emerge from the cut end!
Step-By-Step Guide to Harvesting Baby Jade Stems
While leaf cuttings work well, higher success rates come from propagating baby jade plantlets using stem cuttings. Here’s how:
1. Select a Healthy Stem
Look for a stem shoot that is a few inches long attached to the mother plant. Choose one that is healthy with no damage or disease.
2. Snip Stem Below Leaf Node
Use sterilized, sharp scissors or pruners to snip the stem just below one of the leaf nodes. Angle the cut slightly.
3. Remove Lower Leaves
Use your fingers or scissors to detach any leaves from the lower half of the harvested stem cutting.
4. Dip Cut End in Hormone
Dip the cut bottom 1⁄2 inch of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Gently shake off any excess.
5. Plant in Soil
Place the stem in a small pot filled with fast-draining cactus/succulent soil. Pack soil around the stem to stabilize it.
6. Water Lightly and Provide Light
Water sparingly after planting. Situate in bright, indirect light. Roots and new growth will emerge within a few weeks.
Baby Jade Plant Propagation Aftercare Tips
Once your leaf or stem cuttings are potted up, proper aftercare is vital for robust root and plantlet development:
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Situate pots in a warm area (65-80°F) with bright, indirect light. South or west facing windows are ideal.
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Use a well-draining cactus/succulent potting mix and plant in pots with drainage holes.
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Water sparingly at first, letting the soil dry 1-2 inches down between waterings. Increase frequency once roots establish.
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Avoid fertilizing newly propagated plants until 2-3 months after roots develop to prevent fertilizer burn.
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Watch for signs of rooting like new growth emerging from cut ends within 6-8 weeks. Be patient!
Troubleshooting Propagation Problems
While baby jade plants root easily from cuttings, you may encounter issues like:
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Leaves shriveling – Increase watering frequency and provide brighter light.
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Stem cuttings drooping – Plant didn’t take hold; replant and water more often.
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Rotting stems/leaves – Soil too wet; allow to dry out before watering again. Discard any rotten cuttings.
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No new roots forming – Use rooting hormone and give more time. Cuttings stored too long before planting may fail to root.
With the proper harvesting technique and aftercare, your baby jade plant cuttings should flourish. Be patient, make adjustments as needed, and you’ll have a thriving crop of propagated jade plants!
Frequently Asked Questions About Harvesting Baby Jade Plants
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about getting the most success propagating baby jade plants:
How long does it take for baby jade cuttings to root?
Rooting time can range from 2-12 weeks depending on factors like temperatures, light levels, and genetics. Stem cuttings generally root faster than individual leaves.
Should I mist my baby jade plant cuttings?
Avoid misting, which can lead to rot when water sits on leaves and stems. Allow soil to partially dry out between waterings instead.
What time of year is best for propagating baby jade plants?
Spring and summer are ideal for harvesting cuttings. Plants are actively growing during these months, leading to better rooting.
Can I propagate a baby jade plant from just one leaf?
Yes, detaching a single healthy leaf and propagating as outlined above can work. However, success rates are lower than with stem cuttings.
How can I encourage faster root growth from my baby jade cuttings?
Using a rooting hormone, providing warm temperatures around 70°F, and situating in bright indirect light will all help speed up root production.
Harvest Baby Jade Plants for an Abundant Crop
Propagating baby jade plants from leaf and stem cuttings is a simple, rewarding way to expand your succulent collection. Follow the timing and techniques outlined to ensure success rooting your cuttings into full-fledged jade plants.
With the right harvesting methods and proper aftercare, you’ll have bountiful baby jade plants to enjoy or give as perfect green gifts. before you know it, you’ll have propagated a jade plant forest!
You want to know who’s behind Plantura?
Having studied organic farming, I enjoy trying out new cultivation methods and other gardening experiments with friends in our community garden. I care deeply about exploring sustainable and mindful approaches to working with nature. This is my biggest passion, but I am also a real ornamental plant enthusiast! Favourite fruit: strawberry, mango, guava Favourite vegetables: artichoke, tomato, rocket
In order for a money plant to keep its shape, it must be regularly pruned. Here, you can learn what to look for when pruning jade plants.
Who would not like to have a jade plant (Crassula ovata) – also known as money plant – of their own? Unfortunately, this little tree does not grow banknotes, but it does have some very decorative leaves. In addition, the plant is considered easy to care for and prune. Even though the jade plant does not require regular pruning, there are plenty of reasons to reach for the scissors on occasion. For example, with proper pruning, the tree can be grown into an ornamental shrub, high trunk or even a bonsai. Below, we’ll tell you all about possible reasons for pruning jade plants, the right time to do it, and proper pruning procedures.
Pruning for propagation
The jade plant is uncomplicated and easy to propagate via cuttings. To do this, simply cut off a freshly sprouted branch at the end of the shoot after flowering.
You can learn more about the correct procedure for propagating jade plants here.