The Money Tree, scientifically known as Pachira aquatica, is a popular houseplant celebrated for its striking appearance and symbolic meaning. This tropical evergreen is often associated with good fortune, prosperity, and positive energy in feng shui practices. It is also favored for its relatively easy care, making it a suitable choice for many indoor environments.
Money Tree Care Essentials
Light
Money Trees thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, while insufficient light may cause yellowing or slow growth. Rotating the plant weekly ensures even light exposure, promoting balanced development.
Watering
Overwatering is a common mistake, often leading to root issues. Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot, then allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.
Soil
Money Trees need soil that provides excellent drainage while retaining some moisture. A peat moss-based potting mix or a cactus/palm soil mix works well, ensuring a neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Pots with good drainage holes are essential to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Money Trees prefer warm, humid environments. Maintain indoor temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C), and protect them from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes. To increase humidity, especially in dry climates, consider using a humidifier, misting the leaves occasionally, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring to early autumn), feed Money Trees once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil and potentially harm the plant.
Addressing Money Tree Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves are often caused by overwatering, especially if the soil is soggy due to poor drainage. Insufficient light or low humidity can also contribute. Ensuring proper watering and light conditions can help resolve this.
Leaf Drop
Leaf drop can be a sign of stress for a Money Tree. Common reasons include inconsistent watering (too much or too little) and significant environmental changes, such as relocation or temperature fluctuations. Transplant shock can cause temporary leaf shedding as the plant adjusts. Providing consistent care and a stable environment helps the plant recover.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious condition often caused by overwatering. Signs include soft, mushy stems, a foul smell from the soil, and wilting or yellowing leaves. If suspected, remove the plant from its pot, trim affected roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Proper watering is key to prevention.
Pests
Money Trees can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and visible spots or webbing on the plant. Regular inspection of the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, can help in early detection. Treatment often involves wiping leaves with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap or using neem oil spray.
Ongoing Money Tree Maintenance
Repotting
Repotting is typically needed every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Signs that repotting is necessary include roots growing out of drainage holes, slowed growth, or the soil drying out very quickly. When repotting, choose a pot only one size larger than the current one to prevent the soil from holding too much moisture. Spring or early summer is generally the best time for repotting.
Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the Money Tree’s shape, manage its size, and encourage new, fuller growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves and stems. For shaping, cut just above a leaf node, which is where new growth will emerge. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s total growth at one time to prevent stressing it.
Braided Trunks
The distinctive braided trunk of many Money Tree plants is not natural. It results from cultivating multiple young stems braided together for a unique aesthetic. This practice is done for ornamental purposes and does not inherently affect the plant’s health or growth, though it contributes to its popular appeal. Braided trunks are a common feature in commercially sold Money Trees.