Jade Plant: A Large Succulent

The symbology of the jade plant attracts money, good fortune and prosperity. Learn how to take care of it at home.
Jade Plant: A Large Succulent

Last update: 13 October, 2022

The jade plant belongs to the succulent family and it’s also officially known as Crassula Ovata. Considered a mini tree, it manages to grow into a large plant compared to a common succulent.

It’s a desirable species because it’s very easy to care for, and ideal for beginners in gardening. Another reason why it’s very popular is that, according to Feng Shui, it attracts good luck to the home. In fact, many people know it as the money plant, as it symbolizes prosperity and abundance.

Keep reading to learn more about the jade plant and its care. After reading our article, you’ll want to have one!

The jade plant and its care

The jade plant has fleshy green leaves that retain water, as well as thick stems attached to an even thicker stem. As a member of the succulents, this species can survive in optimal conditions in arid climates. Although, this doesn’t mean that it doesn’t need watering.

This species grows quite large, but it’s a slow process. Many people have one of these plants but arent aware that there are 1,400 different varieties. Now, if you want to have one or you already have one, we’re going to tell you more about its basic care.

It doesn’t matter if you don’t believe in superstitions or Feng Shui, this plant will adorn your spaces and look radiant. As long as you know how to take care of it! Take note!

The jade plant is also known as the money tree.
The jade plant is also known as the money tree.

Watering the jade plant

Watering is the most important part of caring for your jade plant or money tree. It doesn’t require much water, but it’s vital that it has soil with good drainage, since waterlogging can damage it.

So, how often should you water it? This depends on the weather conditions, but it must be, more or less, every 15 days. Remember not to wet the leaves and also, during the winter season, you’ll only need to water it once a month.

Lighting

The money tree should be in a space where it isn’t directly exposed to the sun’s rays, but also not in a humid or cold spot either. This means that it requires an intermediate climate to stay healthy.

Avoid direct sunlight, particularly in the summer, as its leaves will burn. In the winter, there’s a risk that its roots will rot if it retains too much water.

Indoor or outdoor?

The jade plant should preferably be indoors. This is because the indoor environment can better meet the conditions that this plant prefers. However, if you have it in a pot, you can move it outside at certain times, such as spring.

If you do grow this plant indoors, the living room or dining room are probably the best places to locate it. This is because the bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom may not have enough space for its proper development.

Take advantage of the pruning of your jade plant to plant in new pots.
Take advantage of the pruning of your jade plant to plant it in new pots.

Pruning is important

The best time to prune your jade tree is in spring or summer, although this doesn’t mean that you cant do this at any other time. The best way to prune this plant is by removing the growing branches with scissors.

Then, you can replant these branches in new pots. Pruning your mini tree will allow you to control easily identifiable pests and promote the plant’s renewal. You can also give it a particular shape during pruning.

Jade plant warning signs

As we mentioned, the jade plant is very easy to care for, but it’s also prone to pests, diseases, and poor health. Watch out for these warning signs:

  • Excessive leaf fall. This is often due to an excess or a lack of watering.
  • Poor drainage. This will rot the plant, as well as compromise its quality.
  • Dull and dying leaves. Often a symbol of poor light and pests.
  • Developmental issues. Sudden changes in temperature will affect its growth.

Did you enjoy discovering more about the jade plant? Now you can get started and take great pleasure in caring for and watching your plant grow.