Jade Plant Care: Pruning for Shape and Health

Your jade plants (Crassula ovata) are healthy but leggy. They don't need repotting—ever. The fix is pruning and proper care.

Jade plants needing pruning

Core Care

• Light: Sunny windowsill. Direct sun reddens leaf edges (normal).
• Water: Let soil dry ⅓ down pot. Err on dry side.
• Pot: Keep tight. No repotting needed.
• Fertilizer: Half-strength monthly, only during active growth.

Pruning for Shape

Jades grow tip-heavy. Prune long stems back to 3 inches from pot—new growth emerges below cut. This creates a bushier, upright plant. You can't prune "wrong"—worst case, it regrows. Prune anytime.

Result

With light, restraint, and occasional pruning, jades become sturdy, sculptural specimens that last decades.