How to Separate Jade Plants in a Pot
Jade plants are a popular succulent that many people love to grow. They are native to South Africa and are generally easy to care for. Over time, however, jade plants can outgrow their containers, leading to overcrowding and stunted growth. In such cases, the best solution is to separate the plants into smaller pots. Here’s how to do it.
Preparing for Separation
The first thing to do before separating jade plants is to prepare your workspace. Get all the necessary tools ready, such as garden gloves, pruning shears, and a new pot with holes for proper drainage. It’s also a good idea to water the plants a few days before separating them to help them recover from any potential damage.
Removing the Plants from the Pot
To remove the jade plants, you will need to carefully slide them out of the container. If the plants are root-bound, you may need to tap the sides or bottom of the pot to loosen the soil. Once the plants are out, gently remove any excess soil around the roots. You may also have to trim off any dead or rotten roots at this point.
Dividing the Plants
Once you have removed the excess soil and pruned any dead roots, you can separate the jade plants into smaller sections. If the plants have grown closely together, you may need to use pruning shears to gently cut them apart. Make sure each division gets an equal amount of leaves and roots so that they can survive on their own.
Planting the Divided Jade Plants
Once you have separated the jade plants into smaller sections, it’s time to repot them. Choose a new pot that is slightly larger than the root ball and has adequate drainage holes. Add soil to the bottom of the pot and place the jade plant division in the center. Fill the rest of the pot with soil until the plant is secure and firm.
Caring for the Newly Planted Jade
After transplanting your jade plants, you need to provide them with proper care. Water the plant sparingly and let the soil dry out between watering sessions. Jade plants prefer bright, indirect light and low humidity. It’s also important to keep the plants away from drafts, as they can cause the leaves to drop.
Now that you know how to separate jade plants in a pot, you can easily keep them healthy and growing. Remember to keep an eye on your plants and provide them with the proper care they need to thrive.