Do Jade plants prefer to be pot bound? I have one in a very small 2" decorative planter which seems to be very happy and growing well so I am hesitant to transplant it into a bigger pot....yet it is getting too top heavy for the pot it's in. The pot is perhaps 4" tall with a small base to it...and the plant is over 6"
A Jade's growth will be restricted somewhat by the size of pot it is in. That will not stop it from growing however and without occasional pruning may appear out of proportion with the pot. Your plant is really on the small side (2'-3' is common, 5'-6' is exceptional) so you can repot it if you choose. As for the 'too heavy' problem. All a Jade really seems to be is a tree made of water. A healthy Jade can easily outweigh its pot & should be planted in a clay pot for extra ballast.
Crassula ovata aka "Jade Plant's" only prefer to be "pot bound" if the soil mix is very loose and well-draining. Avoid potting soils used for tropical plants as it is too heavy for succulent plants and will increase your risk of root rot. Your concern that it is becoming top heavy, is well understood, as they are a thick and heavy plant. Relatively shallow, wide, ceramic containers will help stabilize and lower the center of gravity of the plant. In addition, pruning the plant once or twice a year will help keep a compact form. What size container should you use? That will be up to your plant. Examine the root ball and then use a container that is slightly larger than the roots.
My Jade is in bloom now for the first time ever. I'm not happy with the shape and it has to be staked to prevent falling over. Any tips on pruning?
