Jade Plant Root Rot Rescue: 6-Month Recovery Plan

Shriveling leaves, falling stems, and leaf drop on your jades indicate advanced root rot. Stopping water for a few days won’t fix it—you need a 6-month rehabilitation.

Diagnose & Repot

1. Gently remove from pot. Check roots.
2. Few fine roots, soil not holding shape? → Severe rot.
3. Soil wet/sour? → Repot immediately.

Soil Mix

2 parts cactus soil + 1 part perlite. Same pot or smaller—never larger. Must have drainage hole and tray.

Watering Protocol

• Water lightly after repot. Empty tray at 1 hour.
• Then no water for 2 weeks (or until moisture meter reads dry 3 days straight).
• Meter (<$10) eliminates guesswork.

Light & Patience

Full south sun, blinds open all day. Roots regrow slowly. In 6 months of minimal water + max light, healthy roots return. Then resume careful watering.

Jades hate wet feet. This regimen saves them.