White Spots on Jade Plants

Jade plants are a classic houseplant, especially for the neglectful home owner.  They prefer bright light and occasional water in the warm season, but other than that the plants are independently self-sufficient.  In good conditions, you may still find white spots on jade leaves; but if the plant’s growth and overall health is good, you should be overly concerned.  The white spots may  be a natural phenomenon or a bit of a fungal disease, but either way, there are easy methods to define and deal with the problem.  What causes white spots on Jade?  I’ve had one large Jade plant to contract white spots.  Robbing the white spots off with a soft clothe can rid the Jade plant of this issue.  However, if the white spots are a fungal or mildew in nature, more aggressive means may be necessary to kill these pests.

The actual cause of the white spots on jade leaves might be powdery mildew, or even a condition where the plant stores salts and “sweats” the excess out through its leaves.  One cause has a quick fix and the other requires some cultural adjustment and treatment.  Both are not all that harmful to your plant and learning how to get rid of white spots on jade plants is a matter of some quick steps. 

Powdery mildew occurs when there is low light, improper circulation, cooler temperatures, and excess humidity.  Overhead watering leaves foliage damp, which in winter months tends to stay moist for a long period.  This promotes the formation of fungal spores that cause powdery mildew.  Avoid overhead watering and use a fan to increase air circulation.  Pinch off affected foliage and discard it.  A solution of baking soda and vinegar is how to get rid of white spots on jade plants with powdery mildew.  Spray on the leaves but ensure the leaves dry within a few hours.  Overhead watering and liquid fertilizers may also leave hard water spots on leaves.  As a rule of thumb, bottom water, or pour water on the top of the soil instead of overhead watering.  If your Jade plant is a Bonsai Tree, this practice is essential to proper watering for the best health and appearance of the Bonsai Tree.