The money tree, Pachira aquatica, is a popular houseplant recognized by its distinctive braided trunk. While typically grown indoors, this tropical species can potentially thrive outdoors in Florida’s unique climate. Allowing it to flourish outside requires specific considerations to ensure its health and longevity.
Florida’s Climate and Money Trees
Florida’s climate offers both advantages and challenges for outdoor money trees. Its high humidity and warm temperatures mimic the plant’s native wetland habitats, supporting robust growth.
However, Florida’s weather also presents significant threats. Money trees are not frost-tolerant; temperatures dropping into the low 30s Fahrenheit can be detrimental. Intense, direct sunlight, especially during summer, can scorch leaves. Strong winds and tropical storms also pose a risk of physical damage to branches and overall plant structure.
Providing Ideal Outdoor Conditions
For an outdoor money tree in Florida, selecting the right location is paramount. The plant thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural understory environment. Direct, harsh sunlight should be avoided as it can cause leaf burn; dappled shade or a spot receiving morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal.
Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent root rot, a common issue in Florida’s often-wet conditions. A rich, loamy mix that retains some moisture but allows excess water to escape is recommended. For potted plants, adequate drainage holes are essential to prevent waterlogging.
Outdoor money trees generally require more frequent watering than their indoor counterparts due to increased evaporation and growth. Check the soil moisture regularly, watering deeply when the top one to two inches feel dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering to maintain plant health.
Protecting Your Money Tree from Florida’s Extremes
Protecting money trees from Florida’s environmental extremes is necessary for their survival. Cold protection is important as they cannot withstand frost. Potted plants should be moved indoors when temperatures are forecast to drop below 50°F or near freezing. In-ground trees can be covered with frost cloth or blankets during cold snaps, and incandescent Christmas lights may provide additional warmth.
Intense direct sun can be damaging, leading to scorched or yellowed leaves. Temporary shading solutions like shade cloths or positioning under a larger tree can help mitigate sun stress in exposed locations. During periods of high winds or tropical storms, potted money trees should be moved to a sheltered area. For in-ground trees, securing them or ensuring they are not in exposed locations can prevent damage.
Ongoing Outdoor Care and Maintenance
Routine care for an outdoor money tree in Florida includes regular fertilization during its active growing season. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half-strength every four to six weeks from spring through summer to support healthy growth.
Pest and disease management are also ongoing considerations in the outdoor environment. Common pests and fungal issues can arise in humid conditions, often exacerbated by overwatering or poor air circulation. Regular inspection allows for early intervention.
Pruning benefits outdoor money trees by maintaining their shape, promoting bushier growth, and removing unhealthy foliage. For potted plants, repotting every two to three years or when roots become visible through drainage holes is necessary to provide fresh nutrients and space for growth.