Why Your Crassula Jade Plant Is Growing Sideways

Crassula ovata, commonly known as the jade plant or money tree, is a popular succulent that is easy to care for and can live for decades with proper care. However, one issue that jade plant owners may encounter is their plant growing sideways instead of upright. This can be a frustrating problem, but it is not uncommon. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your crassula jade plant may be growing sideways and what you can do to fix the problem.

Reason 1: Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons why crassula jade plants grow sideways is due to a lack of light. Jade plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough light, it will start to lean towards the source of light, which can cause it to grow sideways.

Solution: Move your plant to a brighter location. If possible, place your jade plant near a south-facing window where it can get plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. If you don’t have a south-facing window, you can use artificial grow lights to supplement the natural light.

Reason 2: Uneven Watering

Another reason why crassula jade plants may grow sideways is due to uneven watering. Overwatering or underwatering your plant can cause it to become weak and droopy, which can lead to it growing sideways.

Solution: Water your jade plant thoroughly but make sure not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Make sure that the pot you are using has good drainage so that excess water can escape.

Reason 3: Pot Bound

Crassula jade plants have a shallow root system, and when they become pot-bound, they may start to grow sideways. When a plant becomes pot-bound, its roots start circling around the base of the pot, which can cause it to become unstable and grow in different directions.

Solution: Repot your jade plant in a larger pot with fresh soil. Make sure to use a pot that has drainage holes and is slightly bigger than the current pot. This will give your plant more room to grow and prevent it from becoming pot-bound again.

Reason 4: Pests

Pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can also cause crassula jade plants to grow sideways. These pests can weaken the plant and cause it to become droopy, which can lead to it growing in different directions.

Solution: Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of pests. If you notice any, treat them immediately using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Reason 5: Genetics

Finally, some crassula jade plants may naturally grow sideways due to their genetics. Some varieties of this plant may have a more spreading growth habit than others.

Solution: If your plant is healthy and thriving despite growing sideways, there may not be anything wrong with it. You can continue to care for it as usual and enjoy its unique growth habit.

FAQ

Can I prune my crassula jade plant to make it grow upright?

Yes, you can prune your jade plant to encourage upright growth. Cut back any leggy or droopy stems to promote new growth. Make sure to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears when doing this.

How often should I water my crassula jade plant?

Water your jade plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Depending on the humidity and temperature in your home, you may need to water your plant once a week or every two weeks.

What kind of soil should I use for my crassula jade plant?

Crassula jade plants prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus or succulent potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss.

In conclusion, crassula jade plants are beautiful and easy to care for, but they may grow sideways due to various reasons. By identifying the cause of the problem and taking the necessary steps to correct it, you can help your plant grow upright and thrive for years to come.