Caring For A Jade Plant - Teak And Terracotta

We run down all you need to know about caring for a jade plant…

Caring For A Jade Plant Care Summary

Light needs:	Bright indirect sunlight.
Watering needs:	Only water it if the soil is dry all the way down, check it weekly.
Fertilizer:	Use a cactus and succulent feed.
Soil:	Cactus and succulent mix.
Humidity:	No extra humidity needed, will be fine in dry places too.
Temperature:	18°C to 25°C (64-77°F).
Where to buy:	Try our list of Rare Plant Shops.
Other names:	Crassula ovata, money tree (depending on location).
Common issues:	Overwatering and pests.

Introduction

The jade plant aka crassula ovata is an absolute classic, due to its pretty looks and sturdy nature. Sometimes called a money tree, although other plants also bear that name.

Tip: we recommend Etsy for buying plants. Look for the best rated seller you can, and try to buy as close to your home as possible so the plant does not travel too far.

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Jade Plant Light Needs

Plenty of indirect sunlight is ideal, it can be accustomed to some direct sunlight too. They are really adaptable and seem to also fair well in lower and medium light locations of the home.

How Often To Water

Water when your jade plant the soil is dry, check it once a week with your finger or a wooden kitchen skewer. Do not over water it, it is better underwatered to be honest. Also make sure it does not sit in water after watering, tip out any excess water left in the saucer.

Fertilizer

You do not need to feed them, but they should grow quicker if you do. Use a cactus and succulent feed.

Jade Plant Soil

Plant them in a well draining compost, a cactus and succulent mix will do well. They do not want to get water logged roots.

For more on which cactus and succulent compost to buy or how to make you own, see our guide: Succulent Soil.

When To Repot

Check the plant yearly in Spring and pot them up if they are getting crowded.

Humidity

They are succulents and does not need any extra humidity.

Temperature

Normal household temperatures, aim for 18°C-25°C (64-77°F).

Jade Plant Propagation

Jade plant propagation is super easy, you just need to take stem cuttings, or even leaf cuttings, and let them callous over for two hours so the open wounds heal. Then put them all in soil, with the cut end down and leaves up, and then water it lightly. Cover the pot in a plastic bag and seal it apart from a small hole to allow air to move and keep humidity high. They’ll root in a couple of months and can be potted up into separate pots when you start to see new leaf growth.

Types Of Jade Plants

There are various types of jade plants:

Crassula Ovata
Crassula Ovata Botany Bay
Crassula Ovata Crosby’s Compact (Dwarf Jade)
Crassula Ovata Harbour Lights
Crassula Ovata Hummel’s Sunset (Golden Jade Tree)
Crassula Ovata Lemon and Lime
Crassula Ovata Minima
Crassula Ovata Monstruosa (Gollum Jade)
Crassula Ovata Tricolor
Crassula Ovata Undulata

Does Jade Plant Need Sunlight?

Jade plants like plenty of light and some direct sun is ok for them, they can live outside and thrive. Just try to avoid direct sun. They can in some cases become accustomed to more and more direct sun. I have a few outside that get direct sun throughout the summer and they do just fine.

Why Is My Jade Plant Dropping Leaves?

The most common cause of leaves dropping is underwatering. Make sure they are not left to get dry for too long.

Why Is My Jade Plant Turning Red?

They tun red from sun stressing, when they are allowed to dry out just a little bit and get slightly too much sun they can turn a red color. Be careful as it can be fine line between sun stressing them and burning them, so be careful.

Why Are My Jade Plant Leaves Wrinkled?

The leaves can shrivel and wrinkle when the plant needs water.

Is A Jade Plant A Succulent?

They are succulents.

Jade Plant Vs Money Plant

They are the same plant, money plan is another word for jade plant in the UK.

Is It Toxic To Cats?

They are toxic to cats if eaten, and can cause vomiting and numbness. So seek vets advice immediately if your pet eats any.

Jade Plant USDA Zone

Zones 10-11.

Where To Buy

Try our list of Rare Plant Shops.

Other Names

Crassula ovata, money tree (depending on location).

For more on succulents and cacti, see our succulents category with all our care guides.

Caring For A Jade Plant FAQs And Common Problems

Over watering and pests are common problems, so keep and eye out on pests at watering time and do not water unless the soil is already dry.