Jade Plant
Among the many favored indoor plants, the Jade Plants occupy a special place because of their hardiness, ease of culture and tolerance of a wide range of conditions. These succulents are excellent for those sunny, dry windows where even if virtually ignored they still seem to grow. There are several types of Jade - the regular one, and miniature Jade, and the variegated Jade. All Jades require pretty good light and will thrive in bright to full sun. In full sun the leaf edges turn a reddish color. They will tolerate temperatures as low as 45 degrees and will thrive if keep barely moist. In fact, the soil should be allowed to dry down to a 1 inch depth between waterings.
To feed your Jade Plants, use a soluble fertilizer at one half strength. Make applications monthly in spring and summer. Reduce to once every 2 - 3 months during fall and winter. Some gardeners find the time-release granular fertilizer to do a good job on Jade plant as well as many other indoor plants.
Jade plants, as they become older, can become quite large with the main stem reaching 4 - 5 inches in diameter. With a bit of trimming, Jade plants can take on a tree like appearance. Some are trained as very effective Bonsai plants.
For more information on Jade plants, contact your local county Extension office.
