Jade Plant (Crassula) Leaf Drop: Natural Aging vs. Overwatering

Leaf drop on a large, repotted jade plant (Crassula ovata) with good light and biweekly watering can be:

Natural Self-Pruning

Unpruned jades periodically shed older leaves to make way for new growth. If the plant is otherwise healthy and firm, this is normal.

Overwatering from Repotting

Large, mature jades rarely need repotting. Added soil holds moisture too long, rotting roots. First symptom: leaf drop. Check roots if possible—mushy, brown roots confirm rot.

Light Check

"Good light" for jade = several hours of direct sun daily. Morning sun through a window may be insufficient. Inadequate light causes some drop but not death.

Action Plan

• If roots are healthy: continue current care, accept natural shedding.
• If roots are rotted: remove rot, repot in smaller pot with gritty mix, water sparingly.
• Prune regularly to maintain compact shape and reduce self-pruning.

Jades are resilient—recovery is likely with corrected conditions.