Question
I read with interest, your responses to this problem on 7/22/06 and 12/9/06. My jade plant is also suffering from root rot. I have two questions.

How does root rot start? The jade was doing terrific until I moved into a new apt (less light). I had a feeling that it would need to adjust to the new lighting situation but I didn't expect root rot. It began dropping leaves immediately after the move. Did it have root rot before I moved? Or did it happen afterwards? When I questioned a plant specialist (not from this site), I was told to stop watering the plant  until the leaves stopped dropping (which they never did)...

Secondly, I'd really appreciate any advice on how to salvage whatever I can and propagate a new plant.

thanks, Jane

Answer
Hi Jane,

As with most plants, Jades do not develop root rot suddenly. Root rot is usually a slow process and can take many months before the symptoms are obvious and the damage is irreparable.

Root rot occurs when the roots are deprived of oxygen, which they need as much as they need water. When the soil is not allowed to dry out sufficiently between waterings, then the tiny air pockets in the soil remain filled with moisture and the roots cannot get oxygen. That is why the key to watering is allowing the soil to dry out sufficiently between waterings. It is this drying out process that makes oxygen available to the roots.

Your Jade was moved to lower light. You didn't specify just how low, but Jades are not good low light plants. It is possible that your Jade is dying from lack of light, not root rot. But assuming that your Jade is getting at least the minimum light it requires, then it is now using less water than it did before, when it was in better light. If you did not make a corresponding adjustment in your watering, then you probably created an anaerobic (insufficient oxygen) condition and the roots started to slowly rot.

In direct sun, Jades can be watered whenever the top quarter of the soil dries out. In bright indirect light, the soil should dry out at least halfway down into the pot. In low light, your Jade will decline no matter how carefully you water.

Any stems that are healthy - not soft and mushy - and have healthy leaves attached can be propagated. Cut such stems at any point. Let them dry or callus over for a day or so. Then insert the stem cuttings into a small pot filled with a damp, porous potting mix. Keep them on a sunny windowsill and be very patient as it will take many months for the roots to develop and fill the pot with roots before it starts to grow up top.

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

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com

If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]