Jade Plant

[smurfchops]

I have a large jade plant (indoors) that is dropping a fair amount of leaves, although they are still green. I am still watering, not a lot, it is quite dry at the moment. Am I doing something wrong or is it the time of year?

[andyjevs]

Could be the time of year but i have one in my conservatory that is looking superb. Try letting it dry right out before watering....they can take an amaizing amount of drought. They will also tolerate temperature extremes pretty well too and love hot, direct sunlight. They don't seem to tolerate a shady spot too well though.

Other than that, they're pretty easy things to grow. It might just be going through a leaf moult. Oh....and i presume you haven't moved it or potted it or changed anything about it recently as that might have given it a bit of a shock.

[smurfchops]

It is in semi shade at the moment and was getting very long and curly at the ends so a couple of months ago, I trimmed the ends (I like things neat and tidy!) I think I will just leave it alone for a while, where it is, and not water it. Thanks !! Any more advice ?

[logman]

Usually a tough and robust little plant and one of the easyest to propergate, the truoble is they seem to be prone to be attacked by red spider mite, especialy during the winter months when the central heating is on.

Not always easily visible but you may see fine web-like material on the stems and leaves, if it is present house plant insectiside can kill them, or regular sprays of water can prevent it..

[smurfchops]

Thanks, I will have a look and give it a fine spray of water.