Jade plants are popular succulents that are known for their thick, fleshy leaves and easy care. However, even the healthiest jade plant can experience yellowing leaves. If you have a variegated jade plant – meaning it has leaves with a mix of green and white or cream colors – you may be particularly concerned about yellowing leaves. Here are some reasons why your variegated jade plant leaves may be turning yellow, and what you can do about it.
One of the most common reasons for yellowing leaves in jade plants is overwatering. Jade plants are succulents, which means they store water in their leaves and stems. They don’t need to be watered frequently and can actually tolerate drought better than overwatering. When you overwater your variegated jade plant, the roots may become waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves.
If you suspect overwatering is the cause of your variegated jade plant’s yellowing leaves, stop watering it immediately. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again, which may take several weeks. You may also need to repot your plant in fresh, well-draining soil to help it recover from root rot.
While overwatering is a common problem with jade plants, underwatering can also cause yellowing leaves. If your variegated jade plant is not getting enough water, its leaves may start to droop and turn yellow.
Make sure you are watering your variegated jade plant regularly, but not too frequently. Water deeply until the excess water drains out of the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. In general, jade plants should be watered every 2-3 weeks.
Variegated jade plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough light, its leaves may start to turn yellow or pale.
Move your variegated jade plant to a brighter location, such as near a window that gets plenty of indirect sunlight. You can also supplement its light with artificial grow lights if necessary.
Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can also cause yellowing leaves in variegated jade plants. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which can result in stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Inspect your variegated jade plant for signs of pests, such as webs or cottony white patches on the leaves. If you see any pests, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray according to the product instructions.
Variegated jade plants are sensitive to temperature changes and may experience yellowing leaves if they are exposed to extreme heat or cold.
Make sure your variegated jade plant is not located near drafts or heating/cooling vents. Keep it in a location with a consistent temperature between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Jade plants should be watered every 2-3 weeks, or when the soil has completely dried out.
Tap water is generally safe for watering variegated jade plants, but it may contain minerals that can build up in the soil over time. To prevent mineral buildup, you can use distilled water or allow tap water to sit out for 24 hours before using it to water your plant.
Yes, you can safely prune yellowing leaves from your variegated jade plant using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This can help improve the plant’s appearance and encourage new growth.