The “Money Maker Plant” is a popular houseplant, known for its ease of care and symbolism of prosperity. This guide provides practical information to help you cultivate a thriving plant.
Understanding the “Money Maker Plant” Identity
The common name “Money Maker Plant” or “Money Plant” refers to several houseplants, often linked to wealth or coin-like leaves. The two most common are Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) and Jade Plant (Crassula ovata).
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, has heart-shaped leaves and a vining habit, with foliage that can be solid green or variegated. The Jade Plant is a succulent with thick, fleshy, oval leaves that may turn reddish in bright light, growing upright like a tree. Though both are called “Money Plants,” their care needs differ significantly.
Essential Care for Your “Money Maker Plant”
Proper environmental conditions are crucial for the health of your “Money Maker Plant.” Adjusting care to each plant’s specific needs promotes vigorous growth.
Light
Both Pothos and Jade Plants prefer bright, indirect light. Pothos tolerates lower light, but too much shade can cause variegated types to lose patterns, and direct sun can scorch leaves. Jade Plants also prefer bright indirect light and can handle some direct sun; insufficient light causes leggy growth.
Watering
Pothos prefer soil to dry partially between waterings; water when the top 1-2 inches feel dry. Overwatering causes yellowing leaves and root rot, while underwatering leads to drooping, crispy leaves. Jade Plants, as succulents, store water and need less frequent watering. Allow their soil to dry completely between waterings, as overwatering causes soft, mushy leaves and root rot.
Soil
Well-draining soil is essential for healthy root development. Both Pothos and Jade Plants benefit from it. For Pothos, a standard houseplant potting mix or a well-draining aroid mix works well, providing aeration and moisture retention. Jade Plants need a succulent-specific blend or a mix ensuring excellent drainage, like sand, potting soil, and perlite or pumice. Terracotta pots can also help absorb excess water.
Temperature and Humidity
Pothos prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C) and should not be below 50°F (10°C). They adapt to average indoor humidity, but higher humidity is beneficial. Jade Plants are adaptable, thriving in average home temperatures (65°F-75°F / 18°C-24°C) and tolerating dry indoor air.
Fertilizing
During the spring and summer growing season, both Pothos and Jade Plants benefit from fertilization. Pothos can be fertilized monthly or bi-monthly with a balanced, half-strength water-soluble houseplant fertilizer. For Jade Plants, a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer promotes robust growth. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagating Your “Money Maker Plant”
Propagating your “Money Maker Plant” allows you to create new plants. Both Pothos and Jade Plants are relatively easy to propagate using cuttings.
Pothos
For Pothos, stem cuttings are a common method. Take a 4-6 inch cutting with at least one to two leaves and a node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged. Place the cutting in room-temperature water, ensuring the node is submerged. Roots typically develop within weeks; plant in soil once 1-2 inches long. Pothos can also be rooted directly in moist soil, sometimes with rooting hormone.
Jade Plants
Jade Plants propagate from both stem and leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy 3-4 inch section and remove lower leaves. Allow the cut end to callus for a few days to prevent rot before planting in well-draining succulent soil. For leaf propagation, gently twist a healthy leaf, ensuring the base is intact. Allow it to callus for a few days, then lay it on well-draining soil. New roots and a plantlet will emerge from the leaf base.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper care, “Money Maker Plants” can encounter issues. Recognizing common problems helps maintain a healthy plant.
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves are a frequent concern. For Pothos, this can indicate overwatering (soft, mushy leaves), underwatering (dry, crispy), insufficient light, or nutrient imbalance. For Jade Plants, yellowing often signals overwatering, leading to waterlogged roots.
Browning leaves/Other issues
Browning leaves on Pothos can result from overwatering (darker, softer spots), underwatering (lighter, crispier spots), or direct sunlight. For Jade Plants, shriveled leaves indicate underwatering, while soft, mushy leaves point to overwatering. Leaf drop in Jade Plants can be caused by environmental stress or inconsistent watering. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids affect both plants, appearing as small insects or sticky residues. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil manage infestations.
The Symbolic Significance and Benefits
The association of “Money Maker Plants” with prosperity and good fortune is rooted in cultural beliefs, particularly Feng Shui. Both Pothos and Jade Plants are considered auspicious in this practice.
Pothos
Pothos is believed to attract wealth, purify energy, and foster harmony. Its cascading vines symbolize growth and abundance, often placed to enhance financial luck. Beyond symbolism, Pothos is known for its air-purifying qualities, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Jade Plant
The Jade Plant is often called the “money plant” or “lucky plant” due to its thick, coin-shaped leaves. In Feng Shui, it activates financial energies and brings good luck. Its vibrant green leaves symbolize growth and renewal, and its robust nature represents resilience. Placing a Jade Plant near entrances or in the southeast corner invites prosperity. These plants are also valued for their ease of care.