Is your jade plant suddenly dropping leaves? Don’t worry! This is a common problem, and in most cases, it’s easy to fix.
Jade plants (also called money plants or Crassula ovata) are strong and low-maintenance. But when they start losing leaves, it means something is off in their care. In this article, we’ll explain the main reasons why jade plants drop leaves and how to fix each one, step by step.
1. Overwatering – The Most Common Reason
Too much water is the #1 reason jade plants drop their leaves.
Jade plants are succulents, which means they store water in their leaves. If the soil stays wet for too long, the roots start to rot, and the plant drops leaves to protect itself.
What to Look For:
- Yellow, soft leaves falling off
- Mushy stems
- Wet or soggy soil
How to Fix It:
- Let the soil dry out completely before watering again
- Use pots with drainage holes
- Use succulent or cactus soil for fast drainage
2. Underwatering – Leaves Fall When Too Dry
If your jade plant doesn’t get enough water for a long time, it can also start dropping leaves.
Signs:
- Leaves look dry or wrinkled
- Leaves feel thin and soft
- The soil looks very dry and cracked
Fix:
- Water deeply when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry
- Don’t just sprinkle water, water until it drains out the bottom
3. Not Enough Light
Jade plants love bright, indirect sunlight. If they are in a dark room, they may become weak and start shedding leaves.
Signs:
- Stretched or leggy growth
- Pale or dull leaves
- Leaves falling from the bottom of the plant
Fix:
- Move the plant to a sunny window (south or west-facing is best)
- Give at least 4-6 hours of light a day
- Use a grow light if your room is too dark
4. Sudden Temperature Changes
Jade plants don’t like cold air or sudden temperature changes. Cold drafts or moving them suddenly outdoors can shock the plant.
Signs:
- Leaf drop after moving the plant
- Leaves falling in winter
- Plant near windows or AC vents
Fix:
- Keep your jade plant in a room between 60–75°F (15–24°C)
- Avoid placing it near heaters, air conditioners, or open windows
5. Pest Problems
Tiny bugs like mealybugs, spider mites, or scales can damage your jade plant and make it drop leaves.
Signs:
- White cotton-like spots on leaves
- Sticky residue or small brown dots
- Webbing under the leaves
Fix:
- Wipe leaves with a cloth and rubbing alcohol
- Use neem oil or insecticidal soap
- Keep new plants separate to avoid spreading pests
6. Natural Leaf Drop
Sometimes, leaf drop is completely normal.
As jade plants grow, they often drop old leaves from the bottom. If the plant looks healthy otherwise, there’s nothing to worry about.
Fix:
- Gently remove dried-up leaves
- Focus on good light, water, and temperature
7. Wrong Pot or Soil
A pot with no drainage or heavy soil keeps water trapped, leading to root rot.
Fix:
- Use a terracotta pot with drainage holes
- Choose a fast-draining cactus or succulent soil mix
- Avoid regular garden soil
Quick Tips to Keep Your Jade Plant Healthy
- Water only when the soil is dry
- Use a pot with drainage
- Give bright, indirect light
- Keep away from cold drafts
- Watch for pests
- Don’t over-fertilize
Final Thoughts
If your jade plant is dropping leaves, don’t panic! In most cases, it’s an easy fix (just check your watering, light, and temperature). With the right care, your jade plant will stop losing leaves and start growing strong again.
