A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2003 shriveling jade leaves

I have read a lot of sites about watering Jade plants in the winter time and all say to "back off" a bit. However, my Jade plant is in a clay pot, in a sunny window, and I can't keep the leaves firm. They always seem to be shriveled looking. HELP! Should I be watering more often (not once a month) or is this the normal winter appearance?

Reducing water in winter assumes that the light is reduced due to shorter days. However, it doesn't take into account that the artificially heated indoor air is as dry as a desert in winter and that water evaporates more rapidly.

Water your jade thoroughly and then wait until the soil is dry as far down as you can poke your finger before you water again. That is a better guide than the calendar.