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jade plant #790984

Asked May 16, 2022, 9:42 AM EDT

This plant is tipped and growing new branches that are barely connected. What can I do? Cut the new branches? Untip it by re-planting. Can I add neutrients to the soil which hasn't changed for 3 years? What should I add?

Washington County Vermont

Expert Response

Dear Margot:

Like many us, you have a huge jade plant that needs some serious pruning. It is tipping because the long branches weigh down the plant. I suggest that you prune the plant by cutting off the long stringy branches and then prune the major stems to promote growth and encourage branching from the larger stems to form a fuller plant. Spring and summer are good times to prune the plant.

There are many YouTube sessions on pruning jade plants. One that you may find helpful is from Expedition Homestead in which the presenter prunes a large, overgrown jade plant like yours. If you search that name on YouTube, you will find the film. 

Since the plant has been in the pot for three years, it probably need repotting. If the soil dries out quickly or appears compacted, it probably needs a larger pot. Prune first, give the plant a chance to recover from the pruning and then think about repotting. 

You should rotate the pot regularly so that the plant grows more straight. You can find additional information about growing jade plants (soil type, light requirements, fertilization) in the following link:
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/jade-plant-crassula-ovata/

 We hope this information helps. 

Regards,

Pat

UVM Extension Master Gardener Program Volunteer Replied May 16, 2022, 10:48 AM EDT

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