Weeping jade plants are popular ornamental succulents known for their distinctive, cascading growth habit, often trailing gracefully over container edges. Their straightforward care makes them appealing to both new and experienced gardeners.
Understanding Weeping Jade
The term “weeping jade” refers to several succulent varieties known for their trailing or cascading growth patterns. Recognized types include cultivars of Crassula ovata, such as ‘Gollum’ and ‘Hobbit’, and Portulacaria afra ‘Prostrata’.
Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’ and ‘Hobbit’ are popular jade plant cultivars. ‘Gollum’ has tubular, trumpet-shaped leaves, often with reddish tips. ‘Hobbit’ features leaves that curl backward, resembling a scoop. While not inherently weeping, these Crassula cultivars can develop a cascading habit in hanging baskets.
Portulacaria afra ‘Prostrata’, a low-growing form of the elephant bush, is also called weeping jade. This succulent naturally exhibits trailing growth, with arching, reddish-brown stems and small, glossy, emerald green leaves. It is well-suited for hanging baskets or as a groundcover.
Weeping Jade Care Essentials
Light Requirements
Weeping jade plants thrive in bright light, ideally receiving at least six hours of sunlight daily. A south-facing or west-facing window provides adequate indoor illumination. While they tolerate some direct sun, shield them from intense afternoon sun to prevent scorching. Insufficient light leads to leggy or sparse growth.
Watering Techniques
Weeping jade plants are drought-tolerant succulents, storing water in their leaves and stems. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water deeply until drainage occurs. In fall and winter, reduce watering significantly, to about once a month.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is important for weeping jade plants. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal for aeration and drainage. Standard potting soil often retains too much moisture. Always choose a pot with drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Weeping jade plants prefer warm temperatures and are sensitive to cold. They thrive between 65°F and 75°F (18°C-24°C). Protect them from frost. Average household humidity levels are suitable.
Fertilization
Weeping jade plants do not require frequent fertilization. During their active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month. Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength to avoid over-fertilization. Fertilizing during the dormant period is unnecessary.
Repotting
Repotting weeping jade plants is needed only when they become root-bound or the current pot is too small. This occurs every two to three years. Choose a new pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Carefully remove the plant, disturbing the roots as little as possible, and replant it in fresh, well-draining succulent mix.
Pruning and Shaping Weeping Jade
Pruning maintains the desired shape and promotes bushier growth in weeping jade plants. Regular trimming encourages branching, creating a fuller appearance. Removing leggy or elongated stems keeps the plant compact and prevents sparseness.
Use clean, sharp shears or scissors to make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; this encourages new growth. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. The best time for significant pruning is during the active growing season.
Strategic pruning emphasizes the weeping jade’s trailing habit, especially for plants in hanging baskets. Trimming upright or outward-growing stems directs energy towards longer, pendulous branches. This technique creates a more defined cascade.
Propagating Weeping Jade
Propagating weeping jade plants is straightforward, commonly achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. This allows for creating new plants from existing ones. Both methods are effective, though stem cuttings often establish more quickly.
For stem cuttings, select a healthy 4-6 inch stem segment. Remove leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches to expose nodes. Allow the cutting to callus for a few days in a dry, shaded area before planting; this prevents rot.
Once callused, insert the bare end into a well-draining succulent potting mix. Water sparingly until roots develop, which can take several weeks. For leaf cuttings, gently twist a healthy, whole leaf from the stem, ensuring the base is intact. Lay the leaf on top of well-draining soil, and new plantlets will eventually emerge.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Weeping jade plants are resilient, but they can encounter common issues, often related to improper care. Recognizing symptoms allows for timely intervention. Most problems stem from watering imbalances or inadequate light.
Overwatering is a frequent concern, leading to mushy, yellowing leaves and potential root rot. If these signs appear, reduce watering immediately and ensure the soil dries completely between applications. Conversely, shriveling or wrinkled leaves indicate underwatering. In this case, a thorough watering is needed.
Insufficient light causes the plant to become leggy, with elongated stems and sparse foliage. Moving the plant to a brighter location, such as a south-facing window, can correct this. Common pests like mealybugs can appear as white, cottony masses on stems and leaf crevices. Address these by gently wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.