Question
I have had a jade plant for many years, and have never repotted it (as far as I can recall). It is very healthy, but I'd like it to get bigger, so I assume I should repot it. Is there a rule about what size pot to move it to? Will a pot that is too big cause any problems? Also, should I repot using cactus/succulent mix? I am reluctant to rock to boat since it is a lovely plant.
Thanks for your help,
Marcy

Answer
Marcy,

The answer to all of your questions is yes.  You should only move it to a pot that has a diameter 2 inches larger than the pot it is in now. It should not be repotted unless it is rootbound. That means if you can lift the plant from the pot it is in now and the roots hold together and you see all roots and no soil then it is pot bound. If it is not rootbound or pot bound it has not grown to the maximum size it will grow in it's current pot. The size of a jade has more to do with the amount of light it gets and the fertilizer you give it. I have seen jades in bright greenhouses in small pots so large they cannot stand up on their own but have to be propped up.

Yes use a cactus succulent soil mix. Do not repot it before April 1st if you are in the northern heimsphere in a cold snowy area. The days are short and the roots are not growing now, they beginn growing again as the days get longer. After April 1st the plant will do much better when it is repotted. However if it is not rootbound it does not need repotted, it needs more sun and fertilizer. It can even go outdoors for the summer in a semi shady location on the east side so it gets more sun in the morning than in the hot afternoon so it doesn't sunburn. I grow 4 different types of jades, they are all beautiful, fun plants. Good luck.

Darlene