Jade Tree Crassula ovata, also known by its scientific name, is a type of succulent that is not difficult to care for, making it the ideal plant for gardeners to start with or continue with. Its shiny, fleshy leaves and tree-like appearance remind one of serenity and the greenery of any area.
You just got a jade tree or are planning to better your usual plant care practice, and all you need to know is all about how to take care of this beautiful plant.
Jade Tree Care
To know the needs of the Jade Tree
It is necessary to appreciate the natural habitat of your jade tree before delving into the details of how to take care of it. The jade tree is native to South Africa, where it thrives in the dry and rocky hills, and can be considered well-adapted to warm and sunny conditions.
It has been found to grow well in places that have much indirect light and little humidity, thus suitable for the indoor gardening setup.
It is also important in the simulation of the natural habitat of the plant to be as near as possible to guarantee its health and growth. The jade tree is not fast-growing, yet it can exist for many years, provided it is well taken care of.
It is right to ensure light conditions.
Light is considered among the significant aspects of the health of a jade tree. Jade tree is a succulent and requires ample sunshine that is not direct, but rather indirect.
Ideally, it should be close to a south-facing or west-facing window where it would get the maximum light during the day.
In case your house cannot enjoy the strong natural light, you may want to complement it with a grow light.
Nevertheless, excess direct sunshine, particularly during the summer seasons, may end up scalding the leaves of the plant; hence, keep an eye on the plant to note the symptoms of sunburn.
During the winter, when there are limited hours of daylight, the jade tree might not require a lot of light, and yet one should ensure that the tree is in a highly illuminated place.
When the tree is positioned where there is inadequate light, then you will find the tree stretching or trying to reach the source of light, and this is a sign that the tree is not getting much of what you know is required to support its growth.
Water Requirements and Soil Requirements
The jade tree, like most succulents, loves to dry up in between waterings. One of the most common errors of the jade tree owners is the issue of overwatering, which causes root rot.
To prevent this, it is advisable to have the plant in a well-draining pot that contains a good-quality cactus or succulent mixture.
One such type of soil will ensure that the water does not stagnate around the roots, as this is important in avoiding fungal infection and damage to roots.
In watering, ensure that the soil is totally dry before watering. Every 2-3 weeks in the summer, when the plant is actively growing, you may have to water the plant.
During winter, when the plant is in the dormant position, watering should be minimized to once a month or less.
It is always good to test the soil using your finger prior to watering the grass; when it is dry to the touch, then there is a need to water. Wet it out, always, and the water has to come out of the bottom of the pot.
Assuming that you can see that the leaves of your jade tree are starting to wrinkle or shrivel, then this might be an indicator that it is not receiving sufficient water.
On the other hand, when the leaves are changing colour to yellow and mushy, then it can be a result of overwatering.
Preferences in regard to temperature and humidity
Jade trees are heat-loving and can endure most conditions, although frost is a problem. Preferably, the temperature must range between 65-75°F (18- 24 °C).
They are able to withstand a few degrees of elevated temperatures, although excessive heat is likely to cause stress to the plant, particularly when the plant is not getting sufficient water or sunlight.
In the colder seasons, it is also necessary to ensure that your jade tree is not exposed to draughts or cold windows to avoid destruction.
A humid environment is another element that should be taken into consideration when taking care of a jade tree. As a succulent, it can only survive in dry weather and cannot be exposed to humidity.
It should not be sprayed, nor should it be kept in very humid places like bathrooms or the kitchen. It will help to avoid such problems as fungal growth, root rot, or mould because the level of humidity is going to be kept low.
| Factor | Preference/Detail |
| Preferred Range | 65-75°F (18- 24 °C) |
| General Tolerance | Heat-loving and can endure most conditions. |
| Warning (Cold) | Frost is a problem. Must be protected from draughts or cold windows in colder seasons. |
| Warning (Heat) | Can withstand a few degrees of elevated temperatures, but excessive heat is likely to cause stress (particularly when the plant is not getting sufficient water or sunlight). |
| Preference | As a succulent, it can only survive in dry weather and needs a low level of humidity. |
| Warning | Cannot be exposed to humidity. |
| Care/Avoidance | Should not be sprayed. Should not be kept in very humid places like bathrooms or the kitchen. |
| Benefit of Low Humidity | Helps to avoid problems such as fungal growth, root rot, or mould. |
Pruning and Propagation
The rituals that involve pruning your jade tree are a very important aspect of the care and preservation of the appearance of your tree.
With time, it might get leggy or too heavy on top, and this may make it lose its symmetrical shape. Trimming is to maintain the small size of the tree and to sustain its growth of the tree.
Either pruning shears or clean, sharp scissors can be used to cut off any dead or damaged branches, as well as leggy ones.
You may cut the tree, cut it off, and make it a spectacular tree, if you like it to be more. Jade trees endure severe whipping.
Another opportunity is pruning, which can be used to propagate your jade tree.
Jade trees can be easily propagated by cuttings, and, therefore, you can reproduce some plants to add to your collection or share them with friends.
To grow, all one has to do is cut a sound stem, allow the cut portion to callous in a few days (this will assist in avoiding rot), and after which s/he can plant the stem in well-draining soil. Store the cutting in a warm, light place and water sparingly until roots start growing.
Popular Issues and the ways to resolve them
Even though jade trees are quite easy to maintain, there are certain difficulties. A frequent problem is the occurrence of pests, e.g., aphids or mealybugs.
The pests may be eradicated with a damp cloth or an insecticidal soap wiped gently on the leaves. It will be important to check the plant often, especially when you observe any discolored or broken leaves.
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Conclusion
Jade Tree Care of a jade tree may be a fascinating area that will give the feeling of peace in your house. With the help of an appropriate supply of light, water, temperature, and soil conditions, your jade tree would grow and develop into a beautiful and long-living plant.
The beauty of it and the joy it gives you with just a little effort to make it happen is one of a kind.