Will Jade Plant Grow in Water?

Jade plant, otherwise known as Crassula ovata or the "friendship tree," is a popular indoor succulent because of its beautiful, glossy, and plump leaves. Many people wonder whether this plant can grow in water since they might not have access to soil or might not want to deal with the mess that comes with soil.

Can You Propagate a Jade Plant in Water?

Jade plants can be propagated in water, unlike most succulents. Propagation through water is a good method if you are looking to start a new jade plant from a cutting or if you want to root an existing plant. In fact, using water propagation is an excellent way to ensure a healthier and more robust root system for your jade plant.

How to Propagate Jade Plant in Water?

To propagate a jade plant in water, cut a healthy stem from the plant with a clean pair of scissors. Make sure to choose a stem that has at least two nodes where the leaves attach. Nodes are essential because they're where the roots will grow from. Remove the leaves that are closest to the bottom of the stem as they'll be underwater and might rot. Allow the bottom of the stem to dry for a day or two to prevent bacteria and fungus from growing on it when placed in water.

Fill a jar or vase with distilled water or tap water that has been allowed to sit for a few days to evaporate any chlorine. Place the jade stem in the water so that the nodes are completely submerged.

How to Care for your Jade Plant in Water?

Change the water every week, or whenever it appears cloudy or smells bad, to prevent bacterial growth. Also, make sure to rinse the jade stem and container before adding fresh water. Keep the jade plant in a warm spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight since it still needs light to photosynthesize. In cases where you don't have a good light source, you can use a grow light to supplement the light exposure.

You can add liquid fertilizer to the water every two weeks to encourage growth and keep your jade plant healthy. Avoid adding too much fertilizer, as it can lead to salt buildup in the water, which can damage your plant.

What to Expect?

After a few weeks, roots should begin to protrude from the nodes and can grow up to 2-3 inches in length. Once the roots are well established, you can transplant the jade plant into soil or keep it in water permanently. If you decide to plant the jade, leave the stem and roots out to dry for a day, then plant it into a well-draining potting mix. After planting, water the soil sparingly until it shows signs of growth.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, jade plants can grow in water, and propagating them through water can be a useful method for starting new plants or rooting existing ones. However, it is crucial to take good care of your jade plant during propagation and provide it with the right conditions to thrive. With proper care, your jade will bloom and bring joy to your home or office.