Question
Hi Will, I too have the same questions about rooting jade. Your answer was great, although what are your views on watering jade after you put the cuttings in the pot? Being succulents,what amount do they need and how long before you would see them "taking hold" and showing any kind of root system developing? My home temp is 65-70, and the original plant has been in MI. I tried before to root some cuttings, but they turned mooshey.yukky and expired, .lol. I think I had it too wet. Thanks in advance!

Answer
Hi Rebecca,

I think you already know at least part of the answer to your question - be very careful not to overwater Jade cuttings.

Jade cuttings should heal for about 24 hours before they are inserted in a porous potting mix. Porous means adding extra perlite to the potting mix. It is also important to use a pot that is barely large enough to accommodate the cutting(s). A terra cotta pot is also preferred.

The porous soil and small terra cotta pot will help prevent the soil from staying moist for too long after a watering. The more rapidly it dries out, the better. It will also encourage better root development.

When potted this way, the cuttings can be watered thoroughly whenever the top half-inch of soil feels dry.

Warmer temps will produce more rapid root development, but there should be some root development within a couple of weeks either way. However, don't be in a hurry to transplant the cuttings as soon as they show signs of root development. Keep them in the same small pot until they are quite potbound and then move them up one size only.

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]