Growing a jade tree (Crassula ovata) from a leaf is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Select a Healthy Leaf: Choose a healthy, mature leaf from a jade plant. Look for a leaf that is plump, firm, and free from any signs of disease or damage.
  2. Prepare the Leaf Cutting: Gently twist the leaf from the stem to remove it. Be sure to take the entire leaf, including the base where it attaches to the stem. Allow the leaf cutting to dry and callus over for a few days in a warm, dry location. This helps prevent rotting when the leaf is planted.
  3. Choose a Planting Container: Select a small pot or container with drainage holes. Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
  4. Plant the Leaf Cutting: Once the leaf cutting has calloused over, place it on top of the potting mix in the container. You can lightly press the base of the leaf into the soil, but avoid burying it too deeply.
  5. Provide Adequate Light: Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the delicate leaf cutting. A sunny windowsill or under a grow light is ideal.
  6. Watering: Water the soil lightly to moisten it, being careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as jade plants are susceptible to root rot if kept too wet.
  7. Patience: It may take several weeks or even months for roots to develop from the base of the leaf cutting. During this time, continue to provide the plant with adequate light and water as needed.
  8. Transplanting: Once roots have formed and the plantlet has begun to grow, you can transplant it into a larger pot with regular succulent potting mix. Handle the new plantlet carefully to avoid damaging the delicate roots.
  9. Care and Maintenance: Once the jade tree has been transplanted, continue to provide it with bright, indirect light and water sparingly. Jade plants are drought-tolerant and prefer to dry out between waterings. Fertilize lightly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

With proper care and patience, your jade tree will continue to grow and thrive, eventually becoming a beautiful, mature plant. Enjoy watching it develop from a single leaf into a lush, green succulent!