Jade plants are widely appreciated succulents, known for their thick stems and fleshy leaves. When these usually plump leaves begin to wrinkle, it signals a common issue of stress. This article will guide you through understanding, addressing, and preventing wrinkled leaves, focusing on cases of underwatering.
Recognizing Signs of Underwatering
An underwatered jade plant displays distinct visual cues. The normally firm, plump leaves will appear shriveled, thin, or deflated. Stems might also become limp, losing their rigidity. In severe cases, the plant may drop its leaves. Additionally, the soil in the pot will be completely dry and may pull away from the container edges.
Is It Underwatering Or Something Else
It is important to differentiate underwatering from other plant issues, as symptoms can sometimes appear similar. While underwatered jade leaves are dry and shriveled, overwatered leaves feel soft. Overwatering can also lead to leaves turning yellow or translucent and falling off. Severe overwatering can cause root rot, resulting in dark brown, soft, and smelly roots. Other issues like extreme temperature fluctuations can cause leaf drop or wilting, but leaf texture helps identify watering problems.
How to Revive an Underwatered Jade Plant
To rehydrate an underwatered jade plant, thorough watering is necessary. Begin by watering slowly from the top until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Alternatively, bottom watering is effective: place the potted plant in a tray or bucket with several inches of water, allowing the soil to soak up moisture from the drainage holes for 10 to 15 minutes. After soaking, remove the plant from the standing water and allow any excess to drain completely to prevent waterlogging. Recovery may take a few days to a week as leaves gradually re-absorb water and regain plumpness.
Preventing Future Underwatering
Long-term prevention of underwatering involves consistent, appropriate watering practices. Before watering, check the soil moisture by inserting your finger one to two inches deep; water only when the top layer feels dry. Jade plants prefer their soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Factors like light exposure, pot size, soil type, and seasonal changes influence watering frequency; plants in brighter light or smaller pots may dry out faster. Using well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes helps prevent water from sitting around the roots.