Jade Plants Growing on Rocks

Outdoor Jades

• Jades grow well in rocky soil and in garden rockeries in areas with minimum temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Large plants grown outdoors in full sunshine can grow up to 10 feet tall with a large, branching crown. Their thick branches and fleshy leaves make them top-heavy and jade plants are prone to toppling over if their substrate is not stable. If growing your jade on a rockery, make sure that it is stable.

Outdoor Care

• Water outdoor jade plants during the summer when the soil surface is completely dry, applying enough water to soak into the soil and encourage the growth of deep roots. Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for succulent plants during the summer.

Indoor Jades

• The jade plant develops a thick trunk and tree-like shape and makes an excellent bonsai for beginners. It can be grown in small containers or on a large rock with a hole or depression for soil. Jades thrive if the roots are constricted and are more likely to flower if pot-bound. A jade plant will grow in any container provided it does not topple over and allows excess water to drain away.

Indoor Care

• Place your indoor jade plant on a south-facing windowsill that receives direct sunshine. Water when the top inch of its soil is completely dry, aiming to soak the soil thoroughly to encourage root growth. Provide enough water in winter to prevent the leaves from wrinkling up and keep the foliage dry. Pinch out the growing tips of indoor jade bonsai to encourage bushy growth and the development of a thick crown. Repot using compost formulated for succulents.