Jade Plant

Crassula ovata, commonly known as Jade plants are slow growing and low maintenance house plants that are considered symbols of good luck. Also known as the friendship tree, lucky plant, or money plant.  A popular plant to gift to another for house warming presents and other celebrations because they represent growth, renewal, and prosperity.    With their thick, woody stems and oval-shaped leaves, jade plants have a miniature, tree-like appearance that makes them very appealing for use as a decorative houseplant. They live for a very long time, often being passed down from generation to generation and reaching heights of three feet or more when grown indoors.

Plant Care Tips

Watering:  Jade plants can be watered infrequently. You want to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. 'They are a succulent so hold water in thier leaves, meaning overwatering them can be easy so don't have a heavy hand there. But water immediately if you notice that the leaves are starting to dry up and fall off. Then they have used up all their reserve water even and it's been too long. When watering, make sure you give them a good, deep watering since it's done infrequently. Make sure all the excess water drains off so they are not sitting in water. Over watering is the most common way to kill this plant

Lighting: Full sun or filtered sun are the best options for these plants.  They can take alot of light and soak it up.  In fact if they are not given enough sunlight but see some nearby they will grow out leggy trying to reach it. If you notice the limbs starting to stretch out, you may move it closer to the light as they can grow pretty oddly if they get too leggy. These plants can survive under fluorescent lights if they're not getting adequate sunlight- you just want to make sure they get 4 to 6 hours of light per day. 

Heat & Humidity:  They like warm and dry conditions in general which are typical in most homes. 65° to 75° is the preferred temp

Soil Medium:  Use a well draining soil or soil made for cacti/ succulents.  Choose a pot that has several drainage holes. Terra cotta pots work well. Jade plants.

Common Problems and Solutions

Yellow Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure proper drainage.

Leaf Drop: Can be caused by sudden changes in temperature or lighting. Gradually acclimate the plant to new conditions.

Pests: Watch out for mealybugs and spider mites. Remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use insecticidal soap.

Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and encourages bushier growth.  Cut off dead or leggy branches using clean, sharp scissors. This promotes new growth and keeps the plant looking tidy.