Crassula ovata

How Often to Water a Jade plant

Jade plants hold water in thick leaves and stems. They want a good soak followed by a real dry-down, and they sulk in winter if watered as often as in summer.

Your jade plant

Your answer

Water when the soil reaches this point

How it shifts through the year

Thirsty signs

  • Leaves wrinkle or shrivel and feel soft
  • Lower leaves drop
  • Soil is bone dry

Overwatered signs

  • Leaves turn yellow and drop easily
  • Stems turn soft and mushy at the base
  • Soil stays damp for a long time

Watering tips for jade plant

Common questions

How do I know if my jade plant needs water?

Wrinkled, slightly soft leaves and dry soil are good signs. Plump firm leaves with damp soil mean it can wait.

Why is my jade plant losing leaves?

Dropping leaves can come from overwatering, underwatering or sudden changes in light. Check the soil and the stem base to tell which.

Tools that help

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Related guides

Estimates use rules of thumb. Always confirm with your finger: push it about an inch into the soil before you water.