How Often to Fertilise Jade Plants

Jade plants should be fertilised once every 4–6 weeks during their active growing season in spring and summer. They do not need fertiliser in winter, when growth slows down. The best option is Complete Grow’s Cactus Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate (2-7-7), which provides the low-nitrogen, high-potassium balance jade plants need for compact, glossy growth.

1. Why Fertilising Schedule Matters

Jade plants (Crassula ovata) are slow-growing succulents, but they still need nutrition to stay healthy. Over-fertilising can cause soft, leggy growth, while under-fertilising leads to yellow leaves and weak stems. Following a simple seasonal schedule ensures balance:

Spring: Start feeding as new growth emerges after winter dormancy. Fertiliser helps fuel leaf and root development.
Summer: Continue feeding every 4–6 weeks. This is peak growing season, when the plant benefits most from extra nutrients.
Autumn: Apply one final light feed before cooler weather slows growth.
Winter: Stop fertilising. The plant is dormant and won’t absorb nutrients effectively.

This schedule mimics the plant’s natural growth cycle, ensuring steady but controlled growth without overstimulating the plant.

489371415_18222424471289256_5329620343592135411_n (1)

489968880_1129732042287266_8810515748573214373_n (1) (1)

2. How to Fertilise Jade Plants Correctly

Feeding jade plants is simple, but technique matters. Here’s how to apply fertiliser for the best results:

Choose the right fertiliser: Use a succulent-specific product like Complete Grow’s 2-7-7 Cactus Succulent Fertiliser. Its low nitrogen prevents leggy growth while boosting strong roots and foliage.
Dilute properly: Always dilute liquid fertiliser to half strength for jade plants. They are sensitive to overfeeding.
Water before feeding: Apply fertiliser to moist soil to avoid root burn.
Pot vs. ground: Jade plants in pots may need slightly more frequent feeding, as nutrients wash out faster with watering.
New cuttings: Don’t fertilise until roots are established, usually after 4–6 weeks.

By feeding lightly and consistently, jade plants maintain thick, glossy leaves and compact growth, without the risks of soft, overfed growth.

504788283_4178888949010529_7635421657620556425_n (1)

518281429_24173133298965372_8004161636953858575_n (1)

3. FAQs About Fertilising Jade Plants

Q: Can I fertilise jade plants monthly? Yes, monthly feeding is ideal during spring and summer, as long as fertiliser is diluted properly.
Q: Should I fertilise jade plants in winter? No. Jade plants are dormant in winter and do not need fertiliser until spring growth starts again.
Q: What happens if I fertilise too often? Over-fertilising causes soft, weak stems and may burn roots. Stick to light, regular feeds instead.
Q: Do jade plants need fertiliser to flower? Yes. While flowering is rare indoors, regular feeding improves the plant’s chances of producing blooms in the right conditions.
Q: What is the best fertiliser to use? Complete Grow’s Cactus Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate (2-7-7) is the best choice. It provides slow, steady nutrition tailored for jade plants and succulents.

Final Recommendation: Fertilise jade plants once every 4–6 weeks in the growing season with Complete Grow’s 2-7-7 Succulent Fertiliser. This balanced formula prevents weak growth and keeps your jade plant healthy, compact, and long-lived.