Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Look closely at the leaf joints.
- Check the underside of the leaves.
- Isolate the plant from your other greenery.
Likely causes
Mealybug infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: You see small white, fuzzy clusters in the nooks where leaves meet the stem.
What to do: Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and touch it directly to each bug to kill them. Repeat this every few days until you no longer see any pests.
Scale insects
PossibleHow to tell: Small, hard brown or white bumps that look like tiny shells on the stems.
What to do: Gently scrape the insects off with your fingernail or a soft brush. Wipe the area with a cloth soaked in soapy water.
Find out what's wrong with your jade plant
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
When to worry
If the infestation covers the entire plant and the leaves are turning yellow, it is a serious problem. A few bugs can be managed easily with patience.
Stopping it coming back
Inspect new plants before bringing them home and keep your jade plant in a well ventilated area.
Jade plant: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jade plant and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I use neem oil?
- Yes, neem oil is effective, but test it on one leaf first to ensure it does not cause burning in direct sun.
- Why do I keep getting mealybugs?
- They often travel on new plants or through open windows. Keep your plant clean and check it regularly.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Jade plant
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.