Jade plants also known as money plants or lucky plants are popular and easy to care for succulents. Their thick, rounded green leaves and sturdy stems make them excellent houseplants. However, jade plant leaves sometimes turn yellow and wrinkled, which can be alarming for plant parents.
There are a few common causes for yellow, wrinkled jade plant leaves, but the problem is usually due to improper watering. With a few adjustments to your care routine, your jade plant’s leaves can return to their healthy green color and plump appearance.
Why Jade Plant Leaves Turn Yellow and Wrinkled
Jade plants store water in their thick leaves, which allows them to tolerate droughts in their native habitat When the leaves become thin and wrinkled, it’s a sign the plant is thirsty and needs more water Yellowing often accompanies a wrinkled appearance as the plant becomes increasingly stressed.
While under-watering is the most common reason for wrinkled, yellow leaves, overwatering can also cause similar symptoms. If the soil stays soggy, the roots may rot leading to yellow, wrinkly leaves.
Other factors like cold temperatures, pests, and old age can sometimes contribute to yellowing leaves as well. But in most cases, adjusting your watering routine is the solution.
How to Fix Yellow Wrinkled Leaves on Jade Plants
If the leaves on your jade plant are wrinkled and yellow, do these things to get it healthy again:
1. Check for Underwatering
Feel the soil to determine if the plant is being under-watered. Stick your finger into the potting mix or use a skewer to test the moisture level. If the soil is bone dry, especially near the bottom, it needs more frequent watering.
2. Water Only When Dry
Jade plants should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly only when the top few inches of soil become dry. This may mean watering as infrequently as every 2-3 weeks in the winter when growth slows.
3. Improve Drainage
Use a gritty potting mix made for cacti and succulents and move the plant to a pot with drainage holes. These materials will prevent waterlogging that leads to yellow leaves.
4. Check for Overwatering
If you suspect overwatering, allow the plant to fully dry out for a week or so before watering again. Repot in dry soil if the roots are rotting. Cut off any mushy yellow leaves or stems.
5. Treat Pests
Look closely for signs of pests like mealybugs or scale insects, which can make the plants turn yellow. To get rid of any bugs that are there, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
6. Move to Better Light
Low light can sometimes pale the leaves. If you need to, move the jade plant to a place that gets brighter sunlight that doesn’t hit it directly. Rotate the plant periodically so all sides get sun exposure.
7. Raise Temperatures
Cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can shock jade plants. Move to a warmer spot and avoid placing near cold windows in winter.
With a little detective work and adjusting your care routine, you can get those jade plant leaves back to their normal beautiful green. Just be sure to pay close attention to your watering habits, as that is most often the culprit behind wrinkled yellow leaves. With proper care, your jade plant can thrive for years as a low-maintenance houseplant.