The Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is a favored houseplant celebrated for its distinctive braided trunk and resilience. While often considered easy to care for, proper watering is the most important factor determining its long-term health. Mastering the correct technique and timing is crucial for this tropical species to thrive indoors.
Determining When to Water
The frequency of watering a Money Tree should be dictated by the condition of its soil, not a fixed calendar schedule. The plant prefers the soil to dry out significantly between waterings to prevent the roots from sitting in perpetually wet conditions. The most reliable method is the “finger test,” inserting a finger 2 to 4 inches deep into the potting mix near the center of the pot.
If the soil at this depth feels completely dry, water the plant thoroughly. If the soil feels slightly cool or damp, defer watering for another day or two and check again. This technique prevents overwatering, the most common cause of decline. A simple soil moisture meter can also be used to gauge the dampness deeper down, providing an objective reading.
Executing the Watering Technique
When the soil is dry, perform a deep, saturating soak to ensure all roots receive moisture. Pour room-temperature water slowly and evenly over the entire surface of the soil, avoiding the braided trunk. Continue watering until water freely drains from the holes at the bottom of the pot. This deep soaking flushes the soil, preventing mineral salt buildup and hydrating the entire root ball.
Once the water has drained, empty the saucer or cachepot completely within 15 to 20 minutes. Allowing the plant to sit in standing water, often called “wet feet,” starves the roots of oxygen and promotes fungal growth leading to root rot. Avoid giving the plant small sips of water or using the ice cube method, as these techniques only wet the surface and fail to provide deep saturation.
How Environmental Conditions Impact Needs
The rate at which a Money Tree’s soil dries out is significantly influenced by its surrounding environment. During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, the plant’s metabolism increases, requiring more frequent watering than in winter. In the winter, reduced light and cooler temperatures slow growth, so watering frequency must be substantially reduced.
Light exposure affects water needs; plants receiving brighter, indirect light transpire more water than those in lower light conditions. Higher ambient temperatures and lower humidity accelerate the evaporation of moisture from the soil. Porous terracotta pots wick moisture away faster than non-porous plastic or glazed ceramic containers.
Recognizing Signs of Watering Stress
Observing the plant’s foliage is the best way to diagnose a watering issue. Symptoms of overwatering, which is more common, include yellowing leaves that appear soft or limp and a mushy texture at the base of the trunk, often accompanied by a musty smell due to root rot. Leaves may drop rapidly when the roots are compromised by excessive moisture.
In contrast, an underwatered Money Tree displays leaves that droop but feel dry and brittle, often with brown or crispy edges. If the plant is severely dehydrated, the leaves may curl or wrinkle as they lose internal turgor pressure. While both overwatering and underwatering cause leaves to droop, dry soil combined with crispy leaves points toward dehydration, which is remedied with a thorough soaking.
Learning to assess the soil and apply water correctly removes guesswork from care, leading to a vibrant and healthy Pachira aquatica.