Care Guides for Jade Plant


Every 14d

Recommended Frequency

1 /2 cup of water

Recommended Amount

The Jade Plants are succulents and hold water in their leaves. They don't do well when sitting in constantly moist soil. Make sure to let the top one to two inches of soil dry out between waterings.

Level

Beginner

Water

14 days

Temperature

60° - 75°

Light

Indirect Sun

Questions about Jade Plant

What is a jade plant plant?

A jade plant, also known as Crassula ovata, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It's cherished for its thick, shiny, smooth leaves that grow in opposing pairs along the branches. The plant is low-maintenance, requiring minimal water and thriving in well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Jade plants are popular in homes and offices for their aesthetic appeal and are believed to bring good luck.

What does a jade plant plant look like?

A jade plant, also known as Crassula ovata, features thick, woody stems and glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are a rich green color, often with red edges. The leaves are plump and smooth, storing water to help the plant thrive in dry conditions. Mature plants may produce small, star-shaped white or pink flowers in the right conditions.

How often to water a jade plant plant?

Jade plants require minimal watering, thriving on a soak and dry method. During active growth in spring and summer, water every 2 to 3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In fall and winter, reduce watering to once a month. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.

How much light does a jade plant plant need?

Jade plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 4 hours of sunlight daily. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it's best to place them near a window where they can enjoy plenty of light without being exposed to the intense midday sun. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light to supplement their light needs.

What is the lifespane of a jade plant plant?

Jade plants, known for their resilience and beauty, can live for many years with proper care. On average, a well-maintained jade plant can thrive for about 20 to 30 years. However, with optimal care and conditions, some jade plants have been known to live for over 100 years, becoming cherished heirlooms passed down through generations.

Toxicity of Jade Plant

Slightly Toxic to Humans

The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is generally considered to be of low toxicity to humans. Ingestion may cause mild discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but serious poisoning is rare. It's important to keep the plant out of reach of small children who might be tempted to chew on its leaves.

Toxic to Dogs

The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is toxic to dogs. If ingested, it can cause symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and incoordination. While not typically fatal, it's important to keep this plant out of reach of dogs and seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.

Toxic to Cats

The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is toxic to cats. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, and incoordination. While not typically fatal, ingestion can lead to significant discomfort and health issues for your cat. It's important to keep jade plants out of reach of curious felines and seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.

Common Pests and Diseases

Leaf Shrivel and Drop

Underwatering

To address underwatering in jade plants, gradually reintroduce water to the plant. Start by soaking the soil thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Establish a consistent watering schedule, adjusting for seasonal changes in the plant's water needs. Monitor the soil moisture level regularly, ensuring it remains neither too dry nor too wet, to promote healthy growth and prevent leaf shrivel and drop.

Learn More

Use Plant Doctor in the app to diagnose a disease:

Mealybugs Infestation

Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like pests that feed on the sap of the jade plant, weakening it and potentially leading to sooty mold.

To combat mealybugs, start by isolating the affected plant to prevent the spread to others. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to dab directly onto the pests, effectively killing them without harming the plant. For more severe infestations, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the product's instructions carefully. Regularly inspect your plant for early signs of return and maintain proper care to strengthen its resistance.

Learn More

Powdery Mildew

Fungal infection

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white or gray powdery spots on the leaves of jade plants. To treat this, first, isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread. Gently wipe off the mildew with a damp cloth. Increase air circulation around the plant and ensure it receives enough light. If necessary, apply a fungicide specifically designed for powdery mildew, following the manufacturer's instructions. Prevent future outbreaks by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the foliage dry.

Learn More

Related Plants

Other Articles:

Top 10 Most Popular Roses

Mar 22, 2022

How to Care for China Roses

Mar 11, 2022

How to Care for Chinese Money Plants

May 15, 2020

How to Grow and Care for A Bird of Paradise

Apr 26, 2020

Top 10 Plants To Grow In A Terrarium

May 31, 2022

How to Grow and Care for Lucky Bamboo

Mar 29, 2022

How to Grow and Care for Corn Plants

Mar 29, 2022

How to Care for Madagascar Dragon Trees

Mar 21, 2022