Crassula ovata, or jade plants, are popular houseplants with a distinctive look and simple maintenance. Yet, jade plant owners may have problems when their plant falls over and cannot maintain itself. This may be irritating and worrying since it may mean the plant is sick or not getting enough attention.
This article will discuss the primary reasons of jade plant cannot support itself and falls and how to avoid them. To maintain your jade plant healthy and blooming, we’ll cover everything from underwatering and overwatering to high temps and lack of sunlight.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant | Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) |
| Issue | Plant unable to support its own weight |
| Causes | Weak stems due to inadequate light or nutrients, overwatering, or incorrect pruning |
| Symptoms | Stems appear leggy or elongated, and may bend or break under the weight of leaves |
| Treatment | Provide better light and proper nutrients, adjust watering frequency and quantity, support plant with stakes or ties |
| Prevention | Provide adequate light and avoid overwatering or underwatering, prune plant regularly to maintain shape |
| Environment | Native to South Africa, but widely cultivated as a houseplant or outdoor plant |
| Appearance | Succulent plant with thick, fleshy leaves and woody stems |
| Light Requirements | Bright, indirect light or filtered sun exposure |
| Water Requirements | Infrequent watering, allowing soil to dry out between waterings |
| Soil Requirements | Well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Maintenance | Minimal maintenance required, occasional fertilization to promote growth, prune to maintain shape |
Main Causes of Jade Plant Cannot Support Itself:
- Underwatering:
One of the main reasons why a jade plant cannot support itself and falls over is due to underwatering. If a jade plant does not receive enough water, its leaves turn soft and shriveled and this result in stems become weak and unable to support the weight of the plant.
To prevent underwatering, make sure to water your jade plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water your plant. However, make sure not to overwater, as this can also cause your plant to fall over.
- Overwatering:
Overwatering may sometimes topple jade plants. Roots might decay if the soil is too damp, weakening the plant.
Use a well-draining succulent soil mix and let it dry between waterings to avoid overwatering. To avoid root stagnation, empty the saucer after watering.
Table of Contents
- Excessive temperatures:
Jade plants are harmed by extreme heat or cold and prefer 65-75°F (18-24°C). Jade plants may collapse if exposed to temperatures beyond their typical range.
Keep jade plants away from drafty windows, heating vents, and air conditioners to avoid temperature stress. If your plant is in a hot spot, move it or cover it with a heat lamp.
- Lack of sunshine:
Jade plants need strong, indirect sunshine to survive. If a jade plant doesn’t get enough light, its leaves may become pale or yellow and its stems may weaken.
Place your jade plant in bright, indirect light for at least six hours a day to avoid a shortage of sunlight. If your plant needs more light, use a grow light or move it.
- Being top heavy:
Jade plants that grow too tall without a firm foundation may become top-heavy. Top-heavy jade plants may topple.
To avoid top-heaviness, trim your jade plant frequently. A bamboo stake or trellis may support the plant.
Even if your jade plant is top-heavy and leaning, you can still save it. A support device may gently lift the plant upright. Another alternative is to trim the plant to a manageable size and let it regenerate into a more stable form.
Consider your jade plant’s pot size. Small containers may make plants top-heavy. Use a container slightly bigger than the present one before repotting to avoid overwatering and root rot.
- Too much nutrients:
Overfertilizing jade plants may cause excessive growth and weak stems. Too much fertilizer might weaken jade plant stems.
Fertilize your jade plant sparingly—once every three months throughout the growth season—to avoid overfertilization. Use diluted 3-1-2 fertilizer.
- Too much repotting:
Jade plants love to be somewhat root-bound and do not need regular repotting. Too much repotting might stress a jade plant.
Repot your jade plant every two to three years as it outgrows its container to avoid over-potting. To prevent overpotting, choose a well-draining succulent soil mix.
- Not utilizing fast-draining succulent soil:
Jade plants need fast-draining soil to avoid overwatering and root rot. Jade plants may drown in thick, moisture-retentive soil.
Plant your jade plant in well-draining succulent soil to avoid this. This prevents roots from getting saturated by draining excess water.
Tips to Prevent Jade Plant Falls:
- Avoid overwatering your jade plant.
- To avoid root damage and overwatering, choose succulent soil.
- Give your jade plant at least six hours of bright, indirect sunshine.
- Prevent freezing or drafts with your jade plant.
- Fertilize only throughout the growth season.
- Only repot jade plants every two to three years.
People also ask
Can a jade plant recover from falling over?
Jade plants can recover after toppling over, but it takes time. To keep it from toppling over again, clip damaged or weak stems and provide support.
Should I stake my jade plant to prevent it from falling over?
A weak or top-heavy jade plant may be staked. To avoid recurrence, fix the problem, such as overwatering or lack of sunshine.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance may avoid jade plant falls, which can be frustrating for plant owners. You can maintain your jade plant healthy for years by giving it enough water, sunshine, nutrients, and fast-draining soil. Repot your jade plant only as needed, fertilize sparingly, and avoid excessive temperatures and drafts. These instructions will keep your jade plant upright and looking great.
Also read my related article on Jade plant:
For in-depth information on how to care for your jade plant, check out this comprehensive guide.
Jade Plant Meaning – Symbolism(Spiritual), Feng Shui
6 Amazing Benefits of Jade Plant, Uses(Superstition, Feng Shui)
Are Jade plant Toxic to Cats? – Humans, Dogs(Is It Safe)