The money tree, or Pachira aquatica, is a popular houseplant. Beyond proper watering and light, the size of its pot plays a crucial role in its overall health and vigorous growth. A correctly sized container provides necessary space for root development and prevents common issues, helping your money tree thrive indoors.
Selecting the Ideal Pot Size
For initial potting or upsizing, select a pot that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the plant’s current pot. This provides enough room for new root growth without overwhelming the plant with excess soil.
The pot material affects moisture retention. Terracotta or ceramic pots allow for better air exchange and dry out more quickly, which helps prevent overwatering. Plastic pots, being less porous, retain moisture longer, increasing the risk of overwatering. Regardless of the material, proper drainage holes are necessary to prevent water from accumulating. Money trees prefer deeper rather than wider pots, supporting their taproot structure more effectively.
Recognizing When to Upsize
Several indicators suggest a money tree has outgrown its current container. One common sign is when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes. Visible roots circling on top of the soil or a dense mass of roots when gently lifting the plant also indicate it is root-bound.
A noticeable slowdown or cessation of growth can signal the plant lacks adequate space for its root system. If the soil dries out much more quickly than usual, requiring more frequent watering, it might be because roots have taken up most available space. A money tree becoming top-heavy and easily toppling over also suggests its root system is no longer sufficient to anchor the plant effectively.
The Repotting Process
Repotting a money tree into a larger container should be approached with care to minimize stress on the plant. Water the money tree thoroughly the day before repotting to ease its removal and reduce transplant shock. Prepare the new pot by adding a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix at the bottom, ensuring the top of the root ball will sit 1 to 2 inches below the new pot’s rim.
Carefully remove the money tree from its current pot. If roots appear tightly matted or circling, gently tease them apart to encourage outward growth. Trim any mushy or dark-colored roots with sterilized scissors, as these may indicate rot.
Position the plant centrally, then fill the remaining space with fresh soil, lightly tamping it down to remove large air pockets. After repotting, water thoroughly to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
Consequences of Incorrect Potting
Using an improperly sized pot can lead to various problems for a money tree. If the pot is too small, the plant can become root-bound. This hinders its ability to absorb sufficient water and nutrients, leading to stunted growth, nutrient deficiencies, and overall plant stress. Consequences of being root-bound include yellowing leaves and frequent wilting, even with regular watering, because tangled roots cannot absorb water efficiently.
Conversely, a pot that is too large poses risks. An oversized pot holds more soil than the roots can utilize. This excess soil retains moisture for extended periods, increasing the risk of overwatering and leading to root rot. Root rot, a serious fungal disease, causes soft, mushy roots, wilting, yellowing leaves, and plant decline. In a very large pot, the money tree may also prioritize developing its root system over producing foliage, resulting in slower visible growth.