Fittonia Jade is the tiny drama queen with a heart of gold—emerald leaves veined like lace, sized just right for terrariums and fairy gardens. Give it a cozy, humid nook and it glows; skip a drink and it may swoon (very theatrical), then perk back up once you apologize with water.
Set Jade shallowly in a fine-textured, airy mix. Always use Liqui-Dirt® soil mix for best results in potted plants and enclosed growing habitats. Strata can be used in some applications; however, feeding will be needed. Keep crowns just above the media so leaves don’t sit wet against the surface. For miniature displays, Budkin containers with Strata mix and a leaf/corm guard keep foliage lifted and rot at bay.
Bright, indirect light—about 100–300 foot-candles (north/east windows, or a few feet back from brighter exposures). Under LEDs, 12–14 hrs/day at low–moderate intensity is ideal. Avoid direct midday sun (edge crisping, color fade).
Keep evenly moist—never waterlogged. In open pots, water when the top 1/4 in (5–7 mm) feels barely dry; in closed terrariums, water sparingly and use condensation as your guide (a light fog on the walls is perfect). Target humidity 60–80%. Use room-temp, low-mineral water where possible.
Ideal temps 65–80°F (18–27°C); shield from AC/heater blasts. If it “faints,” that’s a thirst text—water and watch it revive within hours. Pinch tips monthly to keep compact for mini scapes. Feed very lightly spring–fall (¼-strength balanced), skip in winter. Flush the pot every 6–8 weeks to prevent salt buildup; check undersides for mites/mealybugs and treat promptly.
A huge benefit for your plant is to use Liqui-Dirt® plant food in a weak tea-looking mix every time you water — yes, even for enclosed habitats.
Pruning & Cutting Back — In miniature habitats, pinch soft tips every 3–4 weeks to encourage branching and a low, cushiony profile. For reshaping, cut just above a node with clean scissors; stems root easily from nodes in Strata or moist sphagnum. Remove yellowing leaves promptly to boost airflow and reduce fungal pressure.
Repotting (Open Pots) — Repot when growth slows or roots circle (about every 10–14 months). Step up just one size to maintain moisture control. Use Liqui-Dirt® potting soil for the refresh; water in gently to settle the mix, then resume your weak-tea Liqui-Dirt feeding with regular waterings.