Jade plant, also known as Crassula ovata, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is popularly grown as an indoor plant due to its hardiness and ability to thrive in low light conditions. However, with the right care and conditions, jade plants can also be grown outdoors.
Variegated jade plants are a beautiful variation of the traditional jade plant. They have white or yellow stripes on their leaves, which make them stand out among other plants in your garden. In this article, we will guide you on how to grow variegated jade plants outdoors.
Variegated jade plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive. They prefer bright but indirect sunlight, especially during the morning hours. Therefore, it is essential to choose a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
In addition, variegated jade plants do well in warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. They are also drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions. However, they do not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
When choosing a location for your variegated jade plant outdoors, consider these factors:
Once you have identified the right location for your variegated jade plant, it’s time to plant it. Follow these steps:
Choose a suitable container: If you plan to grow your variegated jade plant in a container, choose one that is at least 12 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Prepare the soil: Mix well-draining soil with compost or peat moss in a 3:1 ratio. This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients and improve drainage.
Plant the jade plant: Dig a hole in the soil that is slightly larger than the root ball of your variegated jade plant. Place the plant in the hole and cover it with soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Water the plant: Water your variegated jade plant until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rot.
Variegated jade plants are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care. Here are some tips to keep them healthy:
Propagation is an easy way to grow more variegated jade plants from an existing one. Here’s how:
Choose a healthy stem: Select a stem that is at least three inches long and has several leaves.
Cut the stem: Cut the stem below a leaf node using a sharp knife or scissors.
Let it dry: Allow the cuttings to dry for two to three days to prevent rot.
Plant the cuttings: Once the cuttings have dried, plant them in well-draining soil and water them lightly.
Wait for new growth: New roots and leaves should start growing within a few weeks.
Q: How often should I water my variegated jade plant?
A: Water your variegated jade plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Q: How do I know if my variegated jade plant is getting enough sunlight?
A: Variegated jade plants need bright but indirect sunlight. If the leaves start turning pale or yellow, it may be an indication that the plant is not getting enough sunlight.
Q: Can variegated jade plants survive frost?
A: No. Variegated jade plants cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize my variegated jade plant?
A: Feed your variegated jade plant with a balanced fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases from infecting my variegated jade plant?
A: Variegated jade plants are susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent infestations, wipe down the leaves regularly with a damp cloth.