Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) Golden Jade

Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset), also known as Golden Jade, is a beautiful succulent with vibrant green leaves and sunset-hued edges. This resilient plant is perfect for both indoor and outdoor settings and is revered for its bonsai potential and auspicious symbolism in Feng Shui. In this post, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to care for and propagate your Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) to ensure its optimal health and growth.

How to Care for Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset)

Light Requirements

Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) has specific light requirements to ensure healthy growth and vibrant foliage. In outdoor settings, choose a location that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, preferably filtered or morning sun. Midday and afternoon sun can be too intense, causing leaf scorch or sunburn. If necessary, provide light shade or a protective barrier during the hottest hours.

When growing Golden Jade indoors, a bright room with a south-facing window (in the Northern Hemisphere) is ideal. However, avoid placing the plant directly in the window, as intense direct sunlight can damage the leaves. Instead, position it a few inches away from the window or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the light. Monitor your plant for signs of inadequate light, such as leggy growth or a decrease in leaf color vibrancy. If this occurs, you may need to adjust its location or provide supplemental lighting using a grow light.

Watering Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset)

Proper watering is key to maintaining a healthy Golden Jade. The “soak and dry” method ensures the plant gets adequate hydration without the risk of overwatering. To implement this technique, water the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Then, wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. This usually takes about 7-10 days, depending on environmental factors.

During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, reduce your watering frequency to once every 3-4 weeks. Overwatering during this period can lead to root rot and other complications. It’s essential to check the moisture level of the soil by inserting a finger or moisture meter to ensure it’s completely dry before watering.

Soil Needs

The right soil mix is vital for Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) to prevent waterlogged roots and encourage healthy growth. Start with a commercial succulent or cactus mix, which often contains a blend of organic materials and mineral aggregates. To further improve drainage, mix in perlite, pumice, or coarse sand at a 2:1 ratio (soil to additive). This amended mix will provide the ideal balance of moisture retention and drainage.

When selecting a pot for your Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset), always choose one with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Unglazed terracotta pots are an excellent choice, as they are porous and help wick away excess moisture from the soil. If you prefer a decorative pot without drainage holes, use a nursery pot with drainage holes inside the decorative pot and empty any collected water after watering to prevent root rot.

Temperature and Humidity

Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) has specific temperature and humidity preferences that contribute to its optimal growth and overall health. The plant thrives in daytime temperatures ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C), with a slight drop in temperature at night to around 55-60°F (13-16°C). These cooler nighttime temperatures help mimic the natural temperature fluctuations experienced in its native habitat and promote healthy growth.

Since Hummel’s Sunset is not cold-hardy, it’s essential to protect it from freezing temperatures. If you live in an area where winter temperatures drop below 20°F (-6.7°C), consider planting it in a container that can be easily moved indoors during colder months. Place the container near a sunny window, ensuring it receives sufficient light while indoors. You may also use a grow light to supplement natural light if necessary.

Regarding humidity, Golden Jade can adapt to a wide range of levels but prefers moderate humidity environments. In very dry conditions, the plant may benefit from increased humidity provided by a pebble tray filled with water, placed under the pot. However, ensure that the bottom of the pot does not come in contact with the water to avoid root rot.

In extremely high humidity environments, you may need to increase the airflow around the plant to prevent fungal growth or rot. Place a small fan near the plant to circulate air, or move it to a location with better ventilation. Additionally, ensure your soil mix drains well and that you’re following proper watering techniques to avoid overwatering and exacerbating humidity-related issues.

Summary

Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) requires bright indirect light, thorough watering using the “soak and dry” method, well-draining soil, and temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). The plant prefers moderate humidity, but can adapt to various levels. Provide protection from extreme temperatures and ensure proper ventilation to maintain optimal health.

How to Propagate Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset)

Stem Cuttings

To propagate Golden Jade using stem cuttings, follow these detailed steps:

1. Select a healthy, vigorous stem on the main plant. Look for one with at least 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of length and several leaves.
2. With a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors, carefully remove the chosen stem from the plant, making a clean cut near the base.
3. Allow the cutting to air-dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 3-5 days. This allows the cut end to callous, preventing the introduction of pathogens when planted.
4. Once the cut end is calloused, insert it into a well-draining soil mixture, burying it about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep.
5. Place the potted cutting in a bright, indirect light location and water the soil only when it’s completely dry. Be careful not to overwater during this initial stage.
6. Within 2-4 weeks, the cutting will develop roots. You can gently tug on the stem to check for resistance, indicating successful root development.

Leaf Cuttings

To propagate Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) using leaf cuttings, follow these detailed steps:

1. Choose a healthy, mature leaf from the mother plant. Avoid leaves that show signs of damage or disease.
2. Gently twist the leaf from the stem, ensuring a clean break with no remaining leaf tissue on the stem.
3. Allow the detached leaf to air-dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 3-5 days. This helps the base of the leaf to callous, reducing the risk of rot.
4. Place the calloused end of the leaf on top of well-draining soil, allowing it to make contact but not burying it.
5. Keep the potted leaf cutting in a location with bright, indirect light and water the soil only when it’s completely dry.
6. Within 2-4 weeks, roots and new growth will emerge from the base of the leaf. Once new growth is visible, the propagation process is complete.

Summary

Propagate Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) using stem cuttings by selecting a healthy stem, cutting it, allowing it to callous, and planting it in well-draining soil. For leaf cuttings, choose a healthy leaf, detach it, let it callous, and place it on well-draining soil. Both methods require bright, indirect light and careful watering, with roots and new growth emerging in 2-4 weeks.

Fertilizing Your Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset)

While fertilizing your Golden Jade is not mandatory, it can encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage. During the growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month. Choose a fertilizer specifically designed for succulents or cacti for best results.

Before fertilizing, always water your plant thoroughly to prevent root burn. Additionally, avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period (fall and winter) as this can lead to weak, leggy growth. If you notice signs of over-fertilization, such as yellowing leaves or browning leaf tips, reduce the frequency or strength of your fertilizer application.

Summary

Fertilizing Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) during the growing season with half-strength, water-soluble fertilizer promotes healthy growth.

Common Pests and Diseases

Hummel’s Sunset can be susceptible to common succulent pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests and wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth. If an infestation occurs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant.

Root rot is a common issue with succulents when overwatered. To avoid this problem, ensure you provide well-draining soil and follow the “soak and dry” watering method. If you notice black, mushy roots or a foul smell, remove the affected parts and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.

By following this comprehensive care guide for Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset), you’ll be well-equipped to maintain a healthy, thriving succulent. With proper care and attention, this striking plant will reward you with its stunning appearance and positive energy for years to come.

Summary

Crassula ovata (Hummel’s Sunset) is susceptible to pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites, and overwatering can cause root rot.

Where to Buy

Buy Crassula ovata “Hummel’s Sunset” golden Jade from Mountain Crest Gardens.