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🌿 Jade Tree Care: What You Need to Know to Make It Thrive for a Lifetime (and Beyond)
The Jade Tree (Crassula ovata), also known as the “money plant” or “lucky plant”, is more than just a pretty succulent — it’s a symbol of prosperity, a hardy houseplant, and, with proper care, a potential lifetime companion that can be passed down through generations.
Some jade trees have lived for decades, even over 100 years, becoming cherished family heirlooms. But to unlock this kind of longevity, the plant needs more than just sunlight and the occasional watering — it needs intentional, loving care.
Here’s your complete guide to making your jade tree not just survive, but truly thrive — for life.
🌞 1. Give It Plenty of Sunlight
Jade trees love the sun. To grow strong and develop their signature thick, woody stems, they need 4–6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Ideal light conditions:
- Bright, indirect light if indoors (near a south-facing window is best).
- Direct sun if outdoors, especially morning sunlight.
- Rotate the plant every few weeks to encourage even growth and prevent leaning.
🔆 Without enough light, jade plants can grow leggy and weak — a sign it’s time to find a sunnier spot.
💧 2. Water Sparingly, But Thoroughly
Overwatering is the #1 killer of jade plants. Their thick, fleshy leaves store water, so they don’t need frequent watering.
How to water:
- Water only when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
- In warm months: every 2–3 weeks
- In winter: once a month or less
- Water deeply until it drains out the bottom — then let it dry completely before the next watering.
🚫 Never let the plant sit in standing water — this can lead to root rot.
🪴 3. Use the Right Soil and Pot
Jade trees need excellent drainage to prevent root problems.
Best setup:
- Cactus or succulent soil mix (or mix regular soil with sand/perlite)
- A terracotta pot with drainage holes (it allows the soil to dry out faster)
Avoid heavy, moisture-retaining soils — these can suffocate the roots and shorten the plant’s lifespan.
