Question
Dear Will,
I have a beautiful jade plant that has had a silvery-white shiney and flaky material on the leaves for a couple of years.  Now I am noticing the leaves are yellowing, dropping, and some leaves are shriveling up and turning red.  It is interesting that those leaves exposed to the southern sun are now turning red, but only on the parts of the leaves that are directly exposed to the sun.  When another leaf is covering a part of the red leaf, the covered part is healthy and a bright green.  I am afraid my plant is getting very sick and would appreciate any advice you might have for how I can treat it.  Thank you!
Nancy Tuchman

Answer
Hi Nancy,

The white, flaky material is the waxy coating found on healthy leaves that has dried up and is flaking off. It is usually a sign of improper watering.

When exposed to direct sun, Jade leaves do turn a reddish color, but usually just on the edges. It does not mean the plant is unhealthy.

Shriveled leaves are an indication of improper watering, although a certain limited amount of leaf die-back is normal.

When properly potted in a sandy potting mix, Jades should be allowed to dry out about one-third deep into the soil before watering thoroughly. If the soil is kept too dry, the Jade will show the symptoms you described. However, if the soil is kept too moist, then the roots gradually rot and the plant exhibits the same symptoms because it no longer has enough healthy roots to absorb water. So I cannot say whether you are under or over watering, but getting the watering under control is very important.

If you prefer to keep your Jade with un-tinged green leaves, then move it to a north or east facing windowsill to limit the direct sunlight exposure.

If you repotted your Jade, which I do not advise, then there is a very good chance your Jade is suffering from root rot.

I have written an article on Jade care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to PlantCareExperts.com