How to water Crassula ovata

Let the potting mix dry before watering Crassula ovata. Then soak the rootball thoroughly and let the container drain.

Plant coveredCrassula ovataJade plant · Money tree · indoor container

When to water

What to inspect

Let the potting mix dry between waterings. NCSU says to water in moderation when the soil is dry, and Wisconsin describes waiting for the mix to dry between deep waterings.

What changes it

Water more lightly during active spring and summer growth and reduce watering from fall through late winter or winter dormancy. RHS says to water very sparingly when dormant.

How to water thoroughly

  1. When the mix is dry, water thoroughly or deeply, then let excess drain. Avoid repeated small splashes that leave part of the rootball dry.
  2. Use a well-drained cactus or succulent-style container mix and do not leave Crassula ovata in retained water. RHS and NCSU link this plant to well-drained conditions and overwatering problems.

Signs of too much or too little water

Warning Signs

Extended overwatering can lead to leaf fall, root rot, or stem rot. Insufficient water can produce shriveling and may also contribute to leaf drop, so inspect the mix and tissue rather than treating leaf loss as one cause.

Sources