The jade plant (Crassula ovata/Crassula argentea) is not just a beautiful indoor plant; it's also considered to bring good luck. With its easy maintenance and long life, it has found its way into many homes and offices. If you're thinking of adding a jade plant to your space, this article will guide you on how to care for it and reap its benefits.
Is the Jade Plant a Good Indoor Plant?
Jade plants have become popular indoor plants for many reasons. Apart from being considered lucky, they offer numerous benefits that make them an ideal choice for any indoor environment.
- Air purification: Jade plants absorb carbon dioxide at night through a process called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM), which helps improve the air quality in your space.
- Humidity control: Due to the same CAM process, jade plants increase the humidity levels in your home, creating a more comfortable environment.
- Toxin removal: Jade plants can help eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be present in the air from wall paints and insect repellents.
- Skin care: Applying jade plant juice to your skin can effectively treat warts.
- Health benefits: Drinking jade leaf tea has been found to have positive effects on blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for managing diabetes.
How to Plant Jade Plants at Home
To successfully plant a jade plant at home, follow these simple steps:
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- Use a pot with a drainage hole at the bottom to ensure proper water drainage.
- Place the jade plant in the pot, ensuring that there is some space between the roots and the base of the pot.
- Fill the pot with a mixture of soil and manure, and water it thoroughly.
- Find a spot with abundant light and place the pot there.
- Regularly prune your jade plant to remove any dry leaves or stems. You can also propagate new plants by planting cuttings from your existing jade plant.
Types of Jade Plants
Jade plants come in various types, each with its unique characteristics and appearance. Here are a few popular ones:
Common Jade
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The common jade plant has thick green leaves and beautiful pink-white flowers.
Silver Dollar Jade
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The silver dollar jade plant boasts silver-blue succulent leaves with a burgundy lining, also known as blue buddha bash.
Blue Bird Jade
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The blue bird jade plant has leaves that display a mix of green, red, aqua, and cream colors.
Pink Jade Plant
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The pink jade plant produces clusters of pink flowers that cover the entire plant during winters.
Hobbit Jade Plant
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The hobbit jade plant is known for its dwarf structure, adding a unique touch to any space.
Gollum Jade Plant
Leaves of the Gollum jade plant have a tubular shape. They are red at the tips and produce pink and white flowers, which bloom beautifully in winters.
Hummel’s Sunset Jade Plant
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In winter, the leaves of the Hummel's sunset jade plant turn from green to shades of gold and red.
Calico Kitten Jade Plant
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The Calico Kitten jade plant features leaves with pinkish cream and lemon edges, forming a heart-shaped appearance.
Jade Plant Care
To ensure the healthy growth of your jade plant, follow these care tips:
Do Jade Plants Need a Lot of Sunlight?
Yes, jade plants require sufficient sunlight. If direct sunlight is not possible, make sure to provide them with at least four hours of indirect sunlight every day.
How Often Should You Water a Jade Plant?
Jade plants store water in their leaves, which means they don't require constant watering. Follow these guidelines:
- Water your jade plant moderately, neither too little nor too much. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can lead to stunted growth or even death.
- Check the topsoil of your plant regularly. When it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water your jade plant.
- If you notice blisters on the leaves, it means your jade plant is holding more water than it needs, so avoid watering it.
Effect of Outside Temperature on the Jade Plant
If you're growing a jade plant outdoors:
- During summer, check the soil and water your jade plant as needed.
- In rainy seasons, it's best to move your plants indoors to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the jade plant.
- Jade plants require less water during the winter season.
Pruning, Fertilizing, and Repotting Jade Plants
To keep your jade plant in good shape:
- Prune the plant regularly to maintain its desired shape and prevent haphazard growth. Use sharp pruning shears to trim the branches.
- Fertilize your jade plant with water-soluble fertilizers during the spring and summer seasons. Avoid fertilizers during the dormant period, which is winter and fall.
- Repot your jade plant every two to three years in the spring. Use a larger pot than the previous one, ensuring it has good drainage. Also, replace the soil to provide fresh nutrients.
Vastu and Feng Shui Benefits of Jade Plant
According to Vastu and Feng Shui principles, placing a jade plant in specific locations can attract positive energy and bring good luck. Here are a few tips:
Vastu Benefits
- For wealth and good luck, place the jade plant in the southeast corner or the east corner of your home.
- Placing a jade plant at the entrance of your office or house is believed to bring good fortune.
- Avoid keeping jade plants in the bathroom or bedroom, as it can reduce the plant's positivity.
Feng Shui Benefits
- To attract wealth, place the jade plant in the southeast corner of your drawing room, closer to the entrance.
- For health, harmony, and a thriving business, position the jade plant in the east direction of your space.
- According to Feng Shui, jade plants symbolize friendship, prosperity, and growth.
Conclusion
The jade plant is not just a beautiful addition to your indoor space; it also offers numerous benefits and is considered lucky. By following the care tips provided in this article, you can enjoy the beauty and positive energy of your jade plant for years to come. Remember, the key is to provide adequate sunlight, water moderately, and prune and fertilize your plant when needed. Embrace the essence of nature with the jade plant and let it bring luck and positivity into your life.
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