How to make a Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) bloom
In Asia it is known as the money tree and is used to attract financial luck and prosperity. It is placed near the entrances of shops and businesses.
On the ground it can grow to nearly 2m tall. It is an easy plant to care for, but there are 4 essential things to adapt and survive in an indoor pot.
1- Irrigation
The jade plant stores water in leaves and stems, and does not like to get wet or soggy, but if you leave the soil dry for too long, the leaves will begin to shrivel and drop.
Stick your finger into the soil to feel it, and only water if it is dry. If it is blooming, be careful not to get the flowers wet because they are delicate.
2- Lighting
Light is essential for the growth and survival of the jade plant. You should always place it near a well-lit window, preferably with sunlight.
If you can not put it in the window, you can simulate it with artificial light. If you have a balcony or backyard, you can put it directly in the sun. However, beware of frost, it does not tolerate cold.
3- Soil
Likes well drained soil. I use 2 parts soil for 1 part coarse sand, and I put gravel at the bottom to help with drainage.
4- Compost
You must fertilize it at least every 3 months with organic fertilizer (avoid fertilizers that ferment, so as not to rot the plant). You can use coffee powder, dried or crushed eggshells, and succulent fertilizers as well.
5 – How to make it bloom
First, it must be an adult plant about 10 years old. As it is a South African plant, it needs a mild climate and sun to flourish.
If the climate of your city is not like that of these places, you can simulate the ideal environment, as long as the plant is in a pot.
6 – Tips
In early fall, place it in the coolest spot in your garden or home. In winter it will need an average climate of 13° C (but avoid exposing it below 10° C ) for a “rest” and to favor flowering. You will also need shorter days during this period.
The plant will need at least 12 hours of total darkness at night (you can use black drop cloths to help simulate shorter days, but be careful not to use heavy fabric that will damage the plant). During this period, reduce watering.
