The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is one of the quintessential succulents for homes that becomes a little leggy and overgrown with time – this calls for some pruning action, and this is where this guide comes in!
Once you spot the plant getting a bit overcrowded with stems and leaves, while growing in every direction – it’s time to give it a smart prune! Do itevery spring or when the weather is sufficiently warm – however, you can do it anytime of the year (not in winter though!).
Trimming above the <a href=«https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=» https: target="_blank" rel=«noopener»>node
is always a good idea, as it helps the plant sprout more stems, but you can prune in any which way you want – doesn’t matter – jade will keep on growing and becoming bushier – pruning will simply speed up its process!Make sure you clean your pruning shears, knives, or scissors and keep them sharp, too. Remember not to remove more than 1/4 of the growth of the plant during one pruning session, as it can hinder its growth and make it weak.
Choose the central main stem as the trunk, and prune the lower half of the plant including all the leaves and stem to give it a top-heavy, tree-like look.
Do not trim more than 20-30 percent of the branches in one pruning session (After the plant is about 2-3 feet tall). For more details, do read our article here.
First, spot the longest, thinnest branches, and cut them back to the same length as the shorter or medium ones. Find any drooping stems and remove them, too.
Pinch the tips and snip out the top two baby leaves or the soft new tips to promote lateral growth.
An overgrown jade plant looks a mess and is never a good sight (Look at the picture above!). Start by removing any dead, damaged
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