How to Grow and Care for Money Trees

Have you ever wondered why the Money Tree is such a popular houseplant? Known for its braided trunk and lush green leaves, the Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is often associated with prosperity and good fortune. But beyond its symbolic charm, it's a delightful plant to grow indoors, with its easy-going nature and ability to thrive in various environments.

In this post, we're going to explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for a Money Tree. From selecting the right plant and potting it properly to maintaining its health and incorporating it into your home's décor, we've got you covered. So, let's get started on this journey to a greener, more vibrant living space!

Choosing the Right Money Tree

Before you bring a Money Tree home, selecting the right plant is crucial. When you’re at the nursery or plant shop, look for a Money Tree that has vibrant, healthy leaves. The leaves should be a deep green color without any yellowing or browning edges. A quick tip—avoid plants with too many brown or yellow leaves, as this could indicate stress or disease.

Check the trunk, too. A healthy Money Tree usually has a braided trunk, although it's not mandatory. The trunk should feel firm and stable. If the plant is wobbly or the trunk appears damaged, it might not be the best choice. Remember, a good start sets the stage for a healthy plant life.

Size matters as well. If you’re a beginner, you might want to start with a smaller plant. It's easier to manage and care for, and you can watch it grow over time. Larger plants can be more challenging to acclimate to new environments and may require more attention.

Potting Your Money Tree

Once you've chosen your plant, it's time to pot it. The right pot is essential for your Money Tree's health. Opt for a pot with good drainage—this is non-negotiable. Money Trees hate wet feet, which means they don't like standing water. A pot with drainage holes allows excess water to escape, preventing root rot.

When it comes to soil, a well-draining mix is a must. You can use a standard potting soil mixed with sand or perlite to improve drainage. Some people like to add a bit of orchid bark to the mix for even better aeration. Whatever you choose, make sure it's a potting mix that won't hold too much moisture.

Here's a quick potting process:

• Choose a pot that's a bit larger than the plant's root ball.
• Place a layer of rocks or gravel at the bottom for drainage.
• Add the potting mix, filling it halfway.
• Position your Money Tree in the center.
• Fill in with more soil, pressing gently around the roots to secure the plant.
• Water lightly to settle the soil, but avoid soaking it.

Lighting Needs

Money Trees are pretty flexible when it comes to light, which is part of their charm. They can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind for optimal growth.

Ideally, place your Money Tree in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, resulting in unsightly brown spots. On the other hand, too little light can cause slow growth and leaf drop. A perfect spot is near a window with filtered light, like through sheer curtains.

If your home doesn't get much natural light, don't worry. Money Trees can adapt to low light conditions, although they might grow more slowly. Consider rotating the plant regularly to ensure all sides receive light, which helps maintain a balanced shape.

Watering Your Money Tree

Watering is one of the most common areas where plant parents go wrong. But don't fret! Money Trees are pretty forgiving if you follow some basic guidelines.

Water your Money Tree when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering about once a week, but it can vary depending on your home's humidity and temperature. During the summer months, you might find yourself watering more frequently, while in winter, you might water less.

When you do water, be thorough. Water the plant until you see it start to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots are getting enough moisture. However, always empty the drainage tray—sitting in water is a big no-no for Money Trees.

Remember, it's easier to recover from underwatering than overwatering. If you're unsure, it's better to wait a day or two before watering again.

Feeding and Fertilizing

Feeding your Money Tree is important to keep it healthy and promote growth. During the growing season, which is typically spring and summer, you should fertilize your Money Tree every four to six weeks. A balanced liquid fertilizer works well. Simply dilute it to half-strength and apply it during your regular watering schedule.

In the fall and winter, your Money Tree's growth will slow down, and it won't need as much food. You can skip fertilizing during these months or reduce the frequency significantly.

Over-fertilization can be harmful, so always follow the instructions on your fertilizer package. If you notice white crusts on the soil surface or leaf tips browning, it might be a sign of too much fertilizer.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning your Money Tree is not just for aesthetics—it's also crucial for its health. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.

Start by removing any dead or yellowing leaves. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on parts that aren't thriving. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts, which helps the plant heal faster.

If your plant is getting too tall or leggy, you can trim back the stems. Cut just above a leaf node (the spot where leaves or branches grow from the stem). This encourages branching and a fuller plant.

Pruning is best done during the growing season. However, if you notice damaged or diseased parts, don't hesitate to cut them off, regardless of the season. Your Money Tree will thank you!

Handling Pests and Diseases

Like any houseplant, Money Trees can sometimes attract pests or fall victim to diseases. The good news is, with a little vigilance, most issues can be managed effectively.

Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. If you spot any of these critters, act quickly. A gentle solution of water and mild soap can be used to wash the leaves. For more persistent infestations, an insecticidal soap or neem oil might be necessary.

Fungal issues, like root rot, often stem from overwatering. Ensure your plant has good drainage and avoid overwatering to keep these problems at bay. If you notice mushy stems or a foul smell, you might need to repot the plant, trimming away any damaged roots.

Regularly inspecting your plant can catch problems early, preventing larger issues down the line. It's like having a routine check-up for your leafy friend.

Decorating with Money Trees

Now that you've got the care basics down, let's talk about how to incorporate your Money Tree into your home's décor. These plants are not just for good fortune—they can also be stunning focal points in your living space.

Money Trees can fit into a variety of interior styles, from modern minimalism to boho-chic. Place it in a decorative pot that complements your room's color scheme or add a plant stand to give it some height and prominence.

Consider grouping your Money Tree with other plants of varying heights and textures. This creates a dynamic, lush corner that brings life to any room. Hanging plants or trailing vines can add layers, making your indoor garden even more captivating.

If you're short on space, a smaller Money Tree can be a great addition to a desk or shelf. It adds a pop of green and can help improve the air quality in your home. Plus, there's something quite calming about having a touch of nature nearby while you work or relax.

Repotting Your Money Tree

Repotting isn't something you'll have to do often, but it's important to know when and how to do it when the time comes. Typically, a Money Tree might need repotting every two to three years, or when you notice its growth slowing down significantly.

Look for signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant toppling over easily. These are cues that your Money Tree has outgrown its current home and needs more space.

When repotting, choose a pot that's one size larger and make sure it has good drainage. Fresh potting mix is also a must to provide the nutrients your plant needs. Follow the same potting steps as when you first brought your plant home, and water it thoroughly after repotting.

Repotting can be a bit of a shock to your plant, so be gentle during the process. After repotting, give your Money Tree a little extra TLC, like ensuring it gets the right amount of light and avoiding fertilization for a few weeks to allow it to settle into its new pot.

Final Thoughts

Growing and caring for a Money Tree is a rewarding experience, bringing a touch of nature and a bit of luck into your home. With the right care, your Money Tree can thrive and become a beautiful staple in your indoor garden.

At Cafe Planta, we understand the joys and challenges of plant care. Whether you're looking for new plants, care tips, or even stylish plant-themed apparel, we're here to help. If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. We believe in the power of plants to connect us with nature and each other, and we're excited to support you on your plant journey!