Does my jade plant have root rot?

8 years ago

last modified: 8 years ago

I have had this jade plant for 4 years and it has always looked happy and healthy. Recently, however, I have started noticing hard brown scabs traveling up the stem. Worried about root rot, I took my plant out of the soil and put it with some newspaper to dry out (see picture).

As you can see, the stems are very brown at the bottom, but they are not at all mushy to the touch, nor is there a foul smell from the roots.

I have read that Jade plants can get woody as they age. Is this what is going on here, or do I have a different problem?

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Comments (3)

floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
No they do not. The base of the stem naturally acquires a bark like appearance with age. Root rot would be soggy, not hard. Unfortunately you've disturbed the plants and they don't need drying out. Get them back in their pot ASAP.
Allie Arnold thanked floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
Allie Arnold
Original Author
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Thank you so much! I repotted it this morning.
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rina_Ontario,Canada 5a
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Allie Arnold

If I could add, your plant could use more sunlight. The leaves are growing far apart, and are drooping. Hopefully, you potted it into a container with drainage holes, and in a fast draining mix...

It is entirely up to you, but potting each into its own pot will help plant to grow without any obstructions - branches having room to grow without 'getting out of the way' of other branches. But that is personal preference, and you could keep them all together.
Allie Arnold thanked rina_Ontario,Canada 5a