The jade bonsai also known as the money tree is a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts. Native to South Africa, jade plants have thick woody stems and oval-shaped green leaves. With the right care, they make excellent bonsai specimens. Follow this complete guide to successfully grow a healthy, thriving jade bonsai.
Overview of Jade Bonsai
Jade plants belong to the genus Crassula. There are over 200 Crassula species but Crassula ovata is most commonly used for bonsai. It is also known as money tree dollar plant, or lucky plant. In the wild, jade plants grow as shrubs or small trees up to 10 feet tall. The jade bonsai usually has a thick trunk and branches with dense foliage. The succulent leaves are said to resemble jade stones.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Jade bonsai thrive in warm conditions with plenty of sun They prefer daytime temperatures between 65-75°F and nights no cooler than 50°F Cooler temps can cause leaf drop. Jade bonsai are not frost hardy and must be overwintered indoors in most climates. Provide as much direct light as possible. A sunny south or west window is ideal.
Watering Your Jade Bonsai
As a succulent, jade bonsai should not be kept constantly wet. Allow the soil to partly dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Then wait for the soil to become nearly dry before watering again. This cycle prevents soggy soil. In winter, reduce watering frequency. Leaves turning yellow or dropping indicate overwatering.
Fertilizing
Fertilize jade bonsai every 2-4 weeks during spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Outdoor trees can be fertilized monthly. Stop fertilizing in winter or when temperatures drop below 50°F.
Repotting Jade Bonsai
Repot young jade bonsai annually in early spring until it reaches its desired size. Older jade bonsai only need repotting every 2-3 years. Carefully remove no more than 1/3 of the roots and soil when repotting. Use bonsai soil mix for proper drainage. After repotting, withhold water for about a week to prevent rotting.
Pruning and Wiring
Prune jade bonsai as needed during the growing season to shape branches and foliage. Pruning in fall risks dieback of new growth from cold. The supple branches of jade bonsai can be wired into position, but avoid creating deep wire marks. Monitor wiring and remove it once branches are set.
Pests and Diseases
Overwatering can lead to fungal problems like root rot and leaf spot. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects may infest jade bonsai. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control. Always follow label directions.
Propagating Jade Plants
Jade bonsai are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Use a sharp, sterile blade to take 3-5 inch cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone then insert into moist potting mix. Keep the cutting warm and humid until new growth appears.
Displaying Jade Bonsai
The jade bonsai style is typically informal upright, slanting, or semi-cascade. Its gray trunk and branches contrast nicely with the green succulent foliage. Use a plain ceramic bonsai pot to showcase the unique colors and textures of the jade bonsai.
Winter Care Tips
Jade bonsai require special care when overwintering indoors:
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Place in sunny south or west window for light.
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Water sparingly, allowing soil to partly dry out between waterings.
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Stop fertilizing until warm weather returns.
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Keep indoor temperatures above 50°F. Avoid drafts.
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Prune sparingly until spring to prevent dieback.
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Monitor for pests like spider mites that thrive indoors.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leaves falling off – This can indicate overwatering or underwatering. Allow soil to partly dry before watering. Keep away from cold drafts.
Branches dying back – Pruning late in the season can cause dieback. Avoid pruning after summer.
Leaf spots – Fungal disease from wet conditions. Improve drainage and avoid moisture on leaves.
Weak growth – Not enough sunlight or fertilizer. Give more light and fertilize regularly in growing season.
Insect pests – Treat with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps. Isolate plant after treatment.
Tips for Growing a Healthy Jade Bonsai
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Place in sunny window indoors or full sun outside
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Use well-draining bonsai soil mix
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Allow soil to partly dry before watering again
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Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during growing season
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Prune new growth to shape branches and foliage
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Repot annually when young, then every 2-3 years
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Protect from cold drafts and frost
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Watch for pests like mealybugs and scale
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Propagate from stem cuttings in spring or summer
With the proper care, your jade bonsai will thrive for many years to come! It’s a great choice for beginning bonsai enthusiasts or anyone wanting a low-maintenance indoor tree. Follow these guidelines to help ensure the health and longevity of your jade bonsai masterpiece.
Jade Bonsai tree care
FAQ
How often should you water a jade bonsai tree?
How much sunlight does a jade bonsai need?
Should I mist my jade bonsai?
Is Jade bonsai easy to care for?
Jade bonsai is relatively easy to care for as long as the plant is given the appropriate growing conditions and attention. It’s an excellent choice for beginners who want to start with a low-maintenance plant. What Are The Ways To Ensure The Survival Of A Jade Bonsai?
How do you care for a jade bonsai tree?
This should be done during the summer months. The Jade is strong when it’s watered correctly and is receiving sufficient sunlight. If taken care of, you should not experience any issues with its health. For more detailed information on these techniques, check out our Bonsai tree care section.
Should I re-water my jade bonsai tree?
Also, don’t rush to re-water your jade bonsai. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering. Overwatering is a common mistake in bonsai tree care for beginners and can lead to root rot.
How do you prune a jade bonsai?
When pruning your Jade bonsai, always use clean, sanitized, and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant or transferring diseases to it from other plants. Trim branches at a 45-degree angle and make cuts just above a leaf node or bud. This will encourage new growth in that area.
How to choose a jade bonsai plant?
Choosing the right jade plant is the first step in your journey. When selecting your plant, consider its size, branch structure, and leaf shape. A compact plant with a sturdy branch structure provides a solid foundation for your jade bonsai. Additionally, look for leaves that are shiny and plump, indicative of a healthy plant.