Why Your Gollum Jade Plant Is Growing Sideways

If you’ve noticed that your Gollum jade plant is growing sideways instead of upright, you may be wondering what’s causing this issue. Fortunately, there are several possible reasons why your plant is growing in this way, and most of them can be easily corrected with a few simple adjustments to your care routine.

Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons why Gollum jade plants grow sideways is due to a lack of light. These plants require bright, indirect sunlight to thrive, and if they don’t receive enough light, they may start to lean or grow in strange directions as they try to reach towards the sun.

If you notice that your Gollum jade plant is growing sideways, try moving it to a brighter location where it can receive more sunlight. You may also want to consider using a grow light if you don’t have access to a sunny spot for your plant.

Overwatering

Overwatering is another common culprit behind sideways growth in Gollum jade plants. These plants are native to arid regions and are adapted to survive long periods without water. If you’re watering your plant too frequently or not allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, it can lead to root rot and other issues that can cause your plant to grow in strange directions.

To prevent overwatering, make sure you’re allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Only water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Inadequate Drainage

In addition to overwatering, inadequate drainage can also cause Gollum jade plants to grow sideways. If the soil in your plant’s container isn’t draining properly, excess water can build up around the roots, leading to root rot and other problems.

To improve drainage, make sure your plant’s container has plenty of drainage holes at the bottom. You may also want to consider adding a layer of rocks or gravel to the bottom of the pot to help excess water drain away from the roots.

Improper Fertilization

Finally, improper fertilization can also contribute to sideways growth in Gollum jade plants. These plants don’t require frequent fertilization, and if you’re using too much fertilizer or fertilizing too often, it can lead to nutrient imbalances and other issues that can affect your plant’s growth.

To avoid over-fertilization, only fertilize your Gollum jade plant once every two to three months during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

By addressing these common issues, you should be able to get your Gollum jade plant growing upright again in no time.

FAQ

Should I prune my Gollum jade plant if it’s growing sideways?

Yes, pruning can be helpful if your plant is growing in a strange direction. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any stems or leaves that are growing in an undesirable direction.

Can I propagate my Gollum jade plant if it’s growing sideways?

Yes, you can propagate your Gollum jade plant by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in soil or water. However, it’s best to wait until your plant is growing upright before taking cuttings to ensure that they will produce healthy, upright plants.

How often should I repot my Gollum jade plant?

Gollum jade plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so you only need to repot them every two to three years. When you do repot your plant, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with plenty of drainage holes at the bottom.