Jade plants are a great choice for houseplants because they’re easy to care for. They don’t need much water and don’t mind dry soil.
They also thrive in bright light and warm temperatures. They can be moved outdoors in summer, but do so slowly to prevent shock and foliage burn.
Watering
Jade plants need regular watering to stay healthy and happy. They adapt well to dry conditions, but overwatering can lead to root rot and make your plant fall over.
Like most succulents, jade plants prefer a loose, rocky soil that is well-draining. For best results, use a potting mix formulated specifically for succulents and cactus plants that has a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Water jade plants once or twice a week. This frequency will depend on several factors including the size of your plant, its location and soil condition.
Light
Jade plants require ample light to thrive, so it’s important to place them in a sunny spot of your home. Otherwise, their growth will slow down and their older leaves will fall off.
A lack of light also causes jade plant’s stems to lean to one side, which can result in a droopy appearance. If yours is showing these symptoms, gradually move it to a more bright area in your home, like a south-facing window.
If you’re looking to bring some natural beauty into your space, there’s no better plant than the jade plant. It’s easy to care for and can last decades! And it’s good for the air, too — it absorbs carbon dioxide at night and helps you sleep better. So don’t forget to add this beautiful succulent to your kitchen, bedroom, or study area!
Temperature
Jade plants grow well indoors as long as the temperature is moderate. The best range is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
In the summer, these succulents thrive in a sunny spot near a south-facing window. However, they are sensitive to sunburn and may become stunted or die if exposed to intense direct sunlight.
Watering is also an important part of jade plant care. Keep the soil damp but not saturated. Overwatering can cause root rot, and dehydration causes yellow or drooping leaves.
Jade plants are slow growing and need occasional repotting every 2 to 3 years for younger specimens or 4 to 5 years for mature ones. Choose a wide and sturdy pot with drainage holes.
Fertilization
Jade plants are low-maintenance succulents, but they can benefit from a bit of fertilization now and then. This can be done using a plant food that is formulated for succulents and cacti, once in early spring and again during the summer.
Fertilizers contain essential nutrients, including Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), and Potassium (K). These minerals are critical to a plant’s growth, health, and development.
Typically, these nutrients are supplied in liquid fertilizers or granular slow-release products. They are mixed into a soil mix when repotting or at the start of the growing season, and they slowly absorb into the soil over time as the plant receives watering.
Dusting
Dusting is essential for keeping your jade plant healthy and beautiful. It helps your plant soak up the light and reduces dust and pollen buildup on the leaves.
It also keeps the roots healthy. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or duster to dust the leaves occasionally.
This is especially important during the winter months when they may be more prone to pests such as scale, spider mites, and mealybugs.
If you notice a jade plant with black rings on the leaves, it’s a sign that it has a fungal infection called “black ring disease”. Remove the affected leaves and take stem cuttings to propagate new plants.