The Science Behind Jade Plant Leaves Turning Red

When the leaves of your Jade plant start changing color, it’s like a warning signal for many garden enthusiasts. However, not all color changes are cause for concern. It’s quite common for Jade plant leaves to turn red, and fortunately, it doesn’t mean your money tree is in danger. But when the leaves turn yellow or develop brown spots, that’s a different story altogether. Let’s dive into the details and find out more about these leaf color changes!

Why Is My Jade Plant Turning Red?

In the summertime, you might notice a reddish tinge or even fully red leaves on your Jade plant. Don’t worry, it’s completely natural!

This change in color happens because of the strong sunlight. You see, there are sugar crystals in the leaves that react to the sun, causing that reddish hue. It’s actually pretty neat! So, if you have a red Jade plant and want to keep its striking color intact, make sure it receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day.

If you find the red leaves bothersome, you can fix it easily. Just move your plant to a spot with a little more shade. This way, it will still get plenty of light but won’t be directly under the sun. Your plant will thank you, and the redness will disappear.

Can I Make My Jade Plant Leaves Red?

Sure! Some types of Jade plants naturally have red leaves, especially around the edges. If you want to maintain that decorative red color, these varieties need lots of direct sunlight. Without enough sunlight, the red color might fade away.

Yellow Leaves: Causes and Solutions

Now, if you spot yellow leaves on your money tree, don’t panic. It could be due to a couple of things:

1. Too much moisture: Make sure you’re not overwatering your plant. Let the top layers of soil dry out completely before giving it more water.
2. Excessive nutrients: If you’ve been a bit too generous with fertilizer, it could be causing the yellowing. Ease up on the nutrients and see if it improves.
3. Pesky little critters: Spider mites are common pests that can turn your leaves yellow. Keep an eye out for them and take necessary measures to get rid of them.

Brown Spots: Sunburn or Overwatering?

If you notice small brown spots on your Jade plant’s leaves, it could be a case of sunburn. This happens when the plant sits directly behind a window with prolonged sunlight exposure. Think of the window as a magnifying glass! Simply move your plant away from the window or provide some shade.

On the other hand, larger brown spots might indicate overwatering or waterlogged soil. Only water your money tree when the top layers of soil are fully dry, and be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer or tray.

Pro Tip:

Don’t stress about white spots on the leaves. They occur when your Jade plant releases excess moisture. To fix this, try watering it less. Your money tree will appreciate the adjustment!