The Crassula ovalbetter known as jade treeis one of the most loved and resistant fatty plants. But despite his fame as a “indestructible” plant, the arrival of humid autumn can test it. Stagnant humidity, temperature changes and little light are silent enemies that risk weakening it, making it vulnerable to rot and fungal diseases. That’s why it is essential to act now for strengthen it before the most critical months.
Often there is a tendency to underestimate this passage, leaving the plant to face autumn without adequate precautions. But it is precisely at this stage that a good part of his winter health is played. With some targeted care, the jade tree can not only survive, but also thrive, keeping its flesh and shiny foliage.
Very little is needed: a pinch of attention, small changes in habits and some expert makeup makeup. The result? A stronger Crassula, more beautiful and ready to resist even the most humid autumn. Just know where to put your hands, or rather, the soil …
Secrets for a truly effective draining soil for Crassula Ovata
One of the first things to fix before autumn is the soil. Constant humidity is a deadly danger to the roots of Crassula, who fear stagnation like a cat water.
For this, you need a substrate super drainingcapable of making the water flow quickly, leaving the roots well oxygenated. But be careful: it is not enough to add a little sand to the universal soil.
The ideal mix should be composed of:
- 50% soil for cactus or fatty plants
- 20% pumice or perlite
- 20% volcanic lapillo or coarse sand
- 10% chopped vegetable charcoal (excellent against mold and mushrooms)
This type of substrate has an airy and stable structure, which allows to maintain the right balance between humidity and oxygen. A bit like a light duvet that lets the skin breathe.
After all, who has never thought: “My plant is fine, don’t you need to change anything”? But often a too much watering is enough with the wrong soil to cause irreversible damage.
How to stimulate growth and resistance before the cold
At the end of the summer, Crassula enters a transition phase. The days are shortened, the light drops, and the plant is prepared for winter rest. But it is now that you can give it an extra push.
One of the most effective tricks is Dose the fertilizer wellusing light but rich in potassium formulas. Potassium, in fact, strengthens cell walls and improves resistance to climatic stress.
Avoid nitrogen fertilizers: they stimulate leaf growth, but make the plant weaker and susceptible to diseases. Better to use a specific fertilizer for succulent, with NPK 2-7-7 or similar ratio.
In addition to nourishment, also the light plays a crucial role. Move the plant to an area where it can receive at least 5-6 hours of direct light. Although it is still hot, the sun intensity is different, and Crassula needs to “stock up” before winter.
Finally, attention to useless repotted. If the plant is fine, better not to disturb it. The late summer period is already stressful of his own: adding other traumas risks doing more harm than well.
Small daily gestures that make the difference for Crassula Ovata
There are no revolutions to keep a crassula healthy, but constancy and clinical eye. Often, the alarm signals are there, but they go unnoticed.
Watering? Only when the ground is completely dry. In case of doubt, it is better to wait: the roots prefer the thirst for the prolonged bathroom. And no sautés full of water.
Then there is cleaning: eliminating dry or ruined leaves helps prevent rotten and parasites. Even the leaves fallen on the ground can become a outbreak of mold.
An eye also to ventilation: if the plant is at home, make sure the air circles well. Stagnant humidity is an open invitation to mushrooms and problems.
Here is a quick reminder:
- Check the soil every week
- Avoid stagnation in the saucers
- Do not fertilize too much, especially with nitrogen
- Guarantee good light and air
- Delete dry or damaged leaves
- Protect it from cold currents
A bit like people, even with plants it is daily attention that makes the difference. No miraculous gesture, only small habits that become routine.
Green curiosities: symbolism, myths and oddities of the Crassula
In addition to its simple beauty and easy cultivation, the jade tree is full of meanings and legends.
In many oriental cultures it is considered a plant porta-force. It is said that they attract prosperity, abundance and harmony, especially if positioned at the entrance of the house or near the box of a shop.
There are those who call it “money plant” because of the shape of the leaves, similar to small jade coins. Others, on the other hand, believe that it should be given (not purchased) to really work as a talisman.
Also curious the fact that, if neglected, the Crassula can completely lose the leaves and then recover months later as if nothing had happened. A sort of vegetable lethargy that is incredible.
In nature, some varieties reach heights of two or three meters, forming real shrubs. A apartment plant that, with the time and the right care, can turn into a small sculptural tree.
In short, behind that compact and green hair is hiding a world made of history, resistance and a pinch of magic.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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