Crassula ovata looking a little sparse? Choose this fertilizer for your jade plant to boost growth and side branches.
The first thing to know about jade plants is that they are not heavy feeders. They completely live up to the hype of being low-maintenance plants. However, if your plant has been looking quite sparse or almost dead, you must give it a much-needed boost with the best fertilizer for growth and side branches.
How to Fertilize a Jade Plant Without Killing It
1. Balanced Fertilizer During Growing Season
Just like other succulents, jade plants also show maximum growth during the summer months. That’s your golden window to feed them right. Pick a balanced fertilizer with a 20-20-20 NPK ratio. A controlled-release one works wonders—you’ll only need to apply it once a season.
If you go with a liquid fertilizer, dilute it to one-quarter strength and feed once a month. For an extra kick, add a monthly dose of seaweed extract or fish emulsion—this helps build stronger roots and greener leaves.
2. For Younger Plants
Young jade plants grow fast and soak up nutrients like a sponge. But here’s the trick—too much nitrogen can make them leggy and weak. So instead, go for a fertilizer that’s lower in nitrogen but higher in potassium.
A succulent or cactus-specific fertilizer is perfect—it promotes compact, fuller growth and helps with water storage.
This type of potassium-rich fertilizer helps in the overall development of younger plants and also helps with better water storage.
But also remember, too much nitrogen can make young jade plants leggy and floppy, so use a balanced formula with caution.
3. Fertilize For Long-Term Effects
Jade plants can outlive you—literally! For lasting results, choose a long-acting or slow-release organic fertilizer. Just one round in early spring can fuel them for the whole year.
Sounds great, doesn’t it?
These fertilizers also keep salt buildup low, something jade plants truly appreciate. Less salt, less stress!
Things to Keep in Mind When Fertilizing Jade Plants
- Always check the NPK ratio—a balanced one is best.
- Water the plant before feeding—never fertilize dry soil, or you risk root burn.
- If you have recently repotted your jade plant, you should wait at least four months before feeding it again.
- Start feeding in early to mid-spring, when plants wake up from their rest.
- Skip fertilizing in winter (Nov–Feb)—that’s their nap time!
- For indoor jade plants under grow lights, lightly feed every 6–8 weeks but watch how the plant reacts.
With these fertilizer recommendations and tips, you will soon have a lush, full, and beautiful jade plant! Do you have any fertilizing tips up your sleeve? Drop them in the comments below!
