Jade plant care
Jade plants are long-lived succulents with thick, woody trunks that can be shaped like small trees. Given sun and dry spells, one can live for decades.
Light
At least four hours of direct sun daily: a south or west window. In low light it stretches and drops leaves.
Watering
Soak, then wait until the soil is fully dry. Wrinkled leaves mean it is thirsty; soft, translucent leaves mean too much water.
Soil, feeding and repotting
Soil: Cactus and succulent mix in a heavy pot with a drainage hole (jades get top-heavy).
Feeding: Diluted succulent fertiliser 2–3 times in spring and summer.
Repotting: Every 2–3 years; use a terracotta pot for stability.
Propagation
Leaves or stem cuttings root easily after drying for a few days.
Problems and fixes
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Soft, mushy leaves | Overwatering. | Let the soil dry fully and check roots. |
| Wrinkled leaves | Thirst. | Water thoroughly. |
| Leggy growth | Not enough sun. | Move to the sunniest window and prune to shape. |
| Red leaf edges | Sun stress: harmless and often attractive. | None needed. |
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Ask about your jade plant
Questions gardeners ask
How often should I water a jade plant?
Every two to three weeks in summer and about monthly in winter, when the soil is completely dry.
Is a jade plant lucky?
In feng shui it is called the money plant and is associated with prosperity; botanically, it is simply a tough South African succulent.