Jade Plant
Crassula ovata · Money Tree · Lucky PlantUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- Every 2-3 weeks
- Humidity
- 30-50%
- Temperature
- 65-75°F
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall
Crassula ovata, commonly known as the jade plant, is a popular succulent native to South Africa. Its thick, glossy leaves symbolize good luck and prosperity, making it a favorite among indoor gardeners.
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Ideal temperature
50-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Crassula ovata prefers to dry out between waterings.
Water every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce to once a month in fall and winter. Use enough water to saturate the soil, but ensure excess drains out. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause leaf shriveling and dropping.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sun.
Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of light daily. If the leaves start to stretch or lose their vibrant color, it may not be getting enough light.
Soil
Crassula ovata prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
A cactus or succulent potting mix is recommended, or you can create your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand and perlite for improved drainage.
Humidity
Jade plants prefer low to moderate humidity levels, ideally around 30-50%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the plant occasionally or place it on a pebble tray with water. Signs of low humidity stress include leaf curling and browning tips.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Crassula ovata is 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and not below 50°F (10°C) at night.
It is hardy in zones 10-11 and can tolerate brief periods of cold but should be protected from frost.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, every 4-6 weeks.
Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves.
Pruning
Prune Crassula ovata in spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or leggy growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing old leaves can promote new growth.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Crassula ovata can be propagated through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
For stem cuttings, take a healthy 4-6 inch cutting, allow it to callous for a few days, then plant it in well-draining soil. For leaf cuttings, let the leaf dry for a few days before placing it on soil. Best timing is in spring or early summer.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure the plant receives adequate light.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Under-watering or sudden temperature changes.
How to fix it
Adjust watering schedule and protect the plant from drafts or extreme temperatures.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage compact growth.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry completely and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pest infestations (e.g., mealybugs)
Why it happens
High humidity or overcrowded conditions.
How to fix it
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil and ensure good air circulation.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant begins to grow. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure the jade plant receives plenty of bright light and monitor for pests. Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Stop fertilizing and prepare the plant for cooler temperatures.
Winter
In winter, keep the jade plant in a warm location and water sparingly. Avoid placing it near drafts or heating vents.
Toxicity & Safety
Crassula ovata is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The leaves are the most commonly ingested parts.
Good to know
Why are my jade plant leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a jade plant often indicate over-watering or insufficient light. Check the soil moisture and ensure the plant is receiving adequate light.
How often should I water my jade plant?
Water your jade plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and once a month in winter. Always let the soil dry out between waterings.
What type of soil is best for jade plants?
Jade plants thrive in well-draining soil, ideally a cactus or succulent mix. You can also create your own mix by combining potting soil with sand and perlite.
How can I propagate my jade plant?
You can propagate jade plants through stem or leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callous for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
What temperature is ideal for jade plants?
Jade plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
How do I know when to repot my jade plant?
Repot your jade plant every 2-3 years or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Stunted growth can also indicate it's time to repot.
Are jade plants toxic to pets?
No, jade plants are considered non-toxic to pets and children, although ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
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