Jade Plants

~ By Jus Kuntree ~

Originally from South Africa, the Jade plant has become a popular houseplant with many people across many continents. Being a succulent, it has a few special considerations, but nonetheless, is an easy plant to grow

Jade does best when it's placed where it can get an abundance of full sunlight in the winter months, with daytime temperatures between 75 and 80 degrees F. Cooler night time temperatures are acceptable. They can tolerate night time temps as low as 40 F., but the optimum lowest temp for them to have to tolerate, is around 55 F.

However, during the summer months, it is possible for them to burn if they're getting hot, direct light. So you might want to watch them closely, and reduce the light a little. If they're in or near a window with lacey sheers, you might drop those to help reduce the hot sun that's hitting them. Or maybe move them back from the window a little bit. Just provide them with light that's a little bit filtered. One sign of burning is if you find brown edges on the leaves. When moving plants from one location to another, it's important to remember to do it slowly. A sudden change can wreak havoc with the plant.

When it comes to moisture, be careful not to overwater. Let the plant dry out a little bit between waterings, and be sure to empty any water that may be in the saucer of the pot. If it's in an area of high humidity, it's not too happy, and that can lead to problems, so that's another important consideration. Jades, like any other houseplants, often need a bit more watering in winter months when the air in the house tends to be dryer because of having to heat the home.

When growing in their natural envionment, Jades can get up to 10 feet in height. But, Jades grow very slowly, so be patient with your's. They're not going to overtake your house overnight!

If your plant starts dropping leaves, it could be for any number of reasons. Too much water, not enough water, too much sunlight, not enough sunlight, ....oh my!! It may take a little time to "get the feel" of your plant and make adjustments.

Jades should be potted in a good potting soil, with a bit of sand added. A light feeding during warm months is perfectly fine, but along about October stop feeding, and don't feed again until about February. They have a natural dormant period about that time, and feedings are not necessary.

Jades can be a beautiful addition to your collection of houseplants. So, if you don't have one already, you might think about getting one!

         

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