Jade plant care guide

Pets and children

How often to water Jade plant

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 14 days

In spring, water well about two or three days after the soil dries; growth slows in midsummer, so cut back to about twice a month, in the evening.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 10 days

Fall is a growing season: water thoroughly once the soil dries, about every 10 days.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every month

In winter, keep to a light watering about once a month on a mild morning; a drier plant handles the cold better.

Light and placement for Jade plant

Generally treated as a spring-fall grower, it wants a sunny, airy spot all year or a bright window indoors; in poor light the leaves thin and the stems stretch, so avoid only harsh afternoon sun in midsummer.

Overwintering Jade plant

Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above

As a guide, bring it to a bright window when nights drop below about 3°C; kept dry it survives near 0°C under the eaves, but frost damages the leaves, and full fall sun with less water encourages blooms.

Fertilizing and repotting Jade plant

Fertilizer

Diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in spring and fall, or one dose of slow-release fertilizer in spring, with none in midsummer or winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Common problems with Jade plant

• Overwatered in winter, the roots rot and the leaves drop wrinkled.
• In a dim spot it stretches and the branches droop.
• Frost turns the leaves translucent and they drop.

Tips for growing Jade plant

• Cuttings root after a few days of drying, and pruning makes it branch.
• Big plants are top-heavy, so use a heavy or wide pot.
• Wrinkled leaves mean either thirst or root rot; check the soil to tell which.

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