Repotting Jade Plants: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Jade plants are popular succulent plants that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. They come in a variety of types, and if you have one that seems to be outgrowing its current pot, it may be time to consider repotting it.
When to Repot Jade Plants
There are a few signs that indicate it may be time to repot your jade plant:
- It has stopped growing.
- It appears crowded in its current pot.
Overcrowding is not necessarily harmful to the plant, but it can limit its growth. Jade plants will typically grow to the size that their root system allows, which can be up to 3 feet (1 m) tall.
How Often to Repot Jade Plants
The frequency with which you need to repot your jade plant will depend on its size. Small jade plants should be repotted every two or three years, while larger plants can wait four or five years. Each time you repot, use a container that is one size larger than the previous one.
How to Repot a Jade Plant
When you’re ready to repot your jade plant, follow these steps:
- Prepare the new pot and soil. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one and fill it with fresh potting soil.
- Loosen the root system. Use a spade or other flat tool to gently loosen the root system around the edges of the pot.
- Remove the plant from the pot. Depending on the size of the plant, you can either turn it upside down and let it slide out or gently pull it out by the stem.
- Inspect the roots. Tease out the roots to see how much growth you can expect. Remove as much of the old soil as possible.
- Trim the roots (optional). It is rarely necessary to trim the roots of a jade plant, but a slight trim can sometimes encourage growth in the new container.
- Place the plant in the new pot. Position the plant in the new pot as deeply as possible without the leaves touching the soil.
- Fill in the pot with soil. Fill in the pot around the plant with fresh potting soil.
- Wait to water. Wait at least two weeks to water the plant, or longer if the bottom leaves don’t crinkle. This will give the root damage time to heal and new growth to get started.
Additional Tips
- If your jade plant has multiple branches, you can divide it into two plants when you repot it. Simply make a clean, quick cut through the center of the root ball with a sharp tool.
- When repotting jade plants, be sure to use a well-draining potting mix. Jade plants are susceptible to root rot, so it is important to avoid overwatering them.
- After repotting, place your jade plant in a bright, indirect light location.
By following these tips, you can help your jade plant thrive for many years to come.
