Propagating Dwarf Jade Plants

Take dwarf jade cuttings in the springtime, April or May, before the growing season begins. With clean, sharp hand pruners cut off a healthy branch at a 45-degree angle to 3 inches in length for easiest propagation. Shorter stems might not contain enough nutrients to grow roots. Remove most of the leaves and work from the bottom of the branch up to allow the branch's energy to be used to make new roots. Set the cutting aside for several days in a dry, shaded location until the cut area "calluses" -- or dries and scabs over. This prevents disease. Because dwarf jade propagates so easily, rooting hormone is not needed.

Use a sand or 50 percent sand/50 percent growing medium, such as vermiculite, to root dwarf jade. Sand allows more air circulation for best root development. The medium must be sterile and well-draining. The container the medium is placed in must also be well-draining to also allow air circulation for root development. Pour 1/4-cup of water over the rooting medium and allow the soil to drain. Push the cuttings into the medium just far enough so they are self-supporting; otherwise, developing roots could be damaged. Press medium firmly around the cuttings to provide more support. Dwarf jade will root in cooler temperatures, down to as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Bonsai Tool Chest.

Place the cuttings in a semi-shaded location until they root. Provide water when the soil is dry but only until it is slightly moist. Without roots, the plant cannot take up water, and wet soil will rot the branches or developing roots. Rooting should occur in three to four weeks. New leaves are evidence of developing roots.

Transplant the new dwarf jade after another month has passed. Plant it in an area, either indoors or out, where it will receive full sun and protection from long periods of cold temperatures. As a tropical succulent, Portulacaria afra thrives best in United States Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 10 to 11 but also grows where it is protected from long periods of temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Always allow the soil to become nearly dry before watering the plant. When it needs to be watered, a dwarf jade's leaves begin to flatten and wrinkle. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer twice during the growing season. In winter, provide only enough water to keep the leaves from shriveling.