Question
Hello,
I recently repotted my jade plant from an 8 inch pot to a 12 inch pot. Since it has been repotted, the leaves are falling off daily. In addition, I have noticed holes in the soil that are cylinder in shape. When I turn the plant, small flying gnat-like insects fly out of the holes. HELP!

This plant was doing beautifully until I repotted it. Can I save it?
Thanks,
Donna

Answer
Hi Donna,

Unnecessary repotting is the single most common cause of plant problems. This is particularly true for Jade plants because they have small, fine root systems that easily rot when surrounded by moist soil. A Jade plant will live for decades in an 8" pot.

The flying insects are fungus gnats that came with the soil that you used when you repotted. The gnat larvae (eggs) live in unsterilized soil.

The only solution is to remove all of the soil that you added and put the Jade back into into its original or a similar sized pot. Be sure that your Jade gets lots of bright light and that you allow the top half of the soil to dry out in between thorough waterings.

The adult gnats will die on their own after about a week. The larvae will be discarded along with the soil. No pesticide treatment is necessary.

The chances of your Jade's recovery depends on how long ago you repotted and just how moist the soil stayed. If the roots stay moist for too long, they will rot and then the plant will not recover. Only time will tell.

Good luck and please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

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