Can I Transplant a Potted Jade Plant to Water?

Jade plants, also known as Crassula ovata, are popular houseplants that are easy to care for and can live for many years if given the right conditions. One question that many people ask is whether these plants can be propagated by taking cuttings and placing them in water.

What You Need to Know Before Transplanting to Water

Before attempting to transplant a jade plant to water, there are a few things you should know. First, taking cuttings and placing them in water is a common way to propagate many types of plants. However, jade plants are not known for their ability to root well in water. In fact, there is a chance that the cutting may rot or otherwise fail to survive. Therefore, it is important to take extra care when trying to transplant a potted jade plant to water.

Another thing to consider is the fact that jade plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. This means that if you are going to transplant your jade plant to water, you will need to make sure that the water is properly oxygenated and that the plant has access to the necessary nutrients.

The Steps for Transplanting to Water

If you have decided to try and transplant your potted jade plant to water, here are the steps you should follow:

Cut a stem or leaf from your jade plant using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears.

Allow the cutting to dry in a cool, dry place for several hours. This will help prevent the cut end from rotting.

Fill a clean glass or jar with water. Make sure that the water is at room temperature and that it is free of any contaminants.

Place the cutting into the water, making sure that the cut end is submerged.

Place the glass or jar in a bright, but not direct, area. Jade plants like plenty of sunlight, but too much direct sunlight can harm them.

Change the water every few days, making sure to rinse the cutting thoroughly each time. This will help prevent any bacteria or mold from forming.

After a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming on the bottom of the cutting. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can transplant the cutting into soil.

Transplanting from Water to Soil

Transplanting a jade plant from water to soil is relatively simple. Once the roots are several inches long, gently remove the cutting from the water and plant it in a small pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a bright, sunny location. Make sure to avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.

The Bottom Line

While it is possible to transplant a potted jade plant to water, it is important to remember that this method may not always be successful. However, with proper care and attention, you can increase your chances of successfully propagating your jade plant from a cutting. Keep in mind that jade plants prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, so make sure to provide these conditions once you have transplanted your cutting into a pot.