Question
My first problem has to do with two jade plants I have. In the last 2 months they have both developed a "wrinkled" appearance to their leaves, as if they are not well-hydrated. I have them both in an east window where they get full sun 4-5 hours a day. I also only water them ONCE a month, no fertilizer. What could be wrong, and what can I do?  I have a second question if you please:  I have a succulent, unsure of the exact name, although the label reads: "crassula-- Ivory Pagoda".  It is a lovely green, looks like little green buttons on a stick (for lack of better words), and at the tips are little green flowerets that resemble miniature roses.  It is beautiful.  Anyway, I've had it since Fall, and it has done well, growing, etc.  The last month or two it has a dark, dead looking area at the base of each stem, (there are 4 stems). The green healthy part of the plants are being supported on these "dead" stems.  I touched one a few weeks back and it broke off at the soil level.  The green continues to do well, and even appears to be growing some.  I have been watering it ONCE a month since winter started-- no fertilizers, and it sits in a southeast window where it gets good light.  Your suggestions would be most welcome.  Thanks in advance.

Answer
Dear Patricia,

Are all of the leaves affected on the jade plants? If so, you may have root damage. If it is only affecting older leaves, then is probably normal. Typically, the winter months are very dry for indoor plants because of heating in most homes.

As far as your other plant, check out: http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Crassulaceae/Crassula_Ivory_Pagoda.htm Chances are that what you are seeing is the result of root rot. When a plant dies from the roots up, it is usually caused by overwatering. Plants from the southern hemisphere typically don't want any water during our winter (their summer in their natural habitat).

You should be able to replant the one that broke off, just push it into the soil about an inch. Don't use the same soil though, get a new pot and some "cactus and succulent" soil from your local nursery center. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg