The Ultimate Guide To Growing a Money Tree –

In the realm of houseplants, few species capture the imagination and symbolize prosperity quite like the money tree (Pachira aquatica). With its distinctive braided trunk and lush, palmate leaves, the money tree is not only a striking addition to any indoor space but also a harbinger of good fortune and abundance. If you’ve ever dreamed of cultivating your own money tree and nurturing it into a thriving, verdant specimen, you’re in luck. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art and science of growing a money tree, sharing everything you need to know to foster its growth and ensure its prosperity.

From selecting the perfect location and potting soil to mastering the art of watering, fertilizing, and pruning, we’ll cover every aspect of money tree care with expert precision. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast looking to expand your botanical repertoire or a novice green thumb eager to embark on your first indoor gardening adventure, this guide is your roadmap to success. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your gardening gloves, and prepare to embark on a journey of cultivation and abundance as we unlock the secrets to growing the ultimate money tree.

The Ultimate Guide To Growing a Money Tree

What you need to know about your money tree plant

Selecting the Right Location: Money trees thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Choose a spot in your home where the plant can receive ample but filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. But it won’t grow if it doesn’t have enough light. It’s a balance but they aren’t too picky so just try to find a place with sunlight from a window that isn’t directly in front of the window!
Choosing the Right Soil: Money trees prefer well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand works well to provide adequate drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water from accumulating. If too much water builds up at the bottom it can cause the dreaded root rot.
Watering: Money trees prefer consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch (stick your finger in the dirt up to the first knuckle to check for moisture), typically every 7-10 days. Allow excess water to drain freely from the bottom of the pot, and empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.
Humidity: Money trees appreciate humidity, so consider misting the leaves occasionally with water to increase humidity levels. Alternatively, you can place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the bottom of the pot does not sit in water. But don’t mist too often especially on sunny days because it can actually scorch the leaves.
Temperature: Money trees prefer warm temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect the plant from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, as they can cause stress to the plant. In general I have experienced that they are fine as long as they aren’t right next to a heating or cooling vent/radiator.
Pruning and Shaping: To encourage bushy growth and maintain a compact shape, periodically prune your money tree by trimming back overgrown branches and removing any dead or yellowing leaves. You can also gently pinch off new growth to promote branching. Remember that leaves die that is perfectly normal and there is no need to panic as long as it’s not a ton of leaves all at once!
Fertilizing: Feed your money tree with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter). Honestly, I don’t always get to any fertilization during the winter time and it has never been a problem. Fertilizing is all about seeing that growth!
Repotting: As your money tree grows, it may outgrow its pot and become root-bound. Repot the plant into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting soil every 1-2 years in spring to provide ample space for root growth. If you aren’t leaving your money tree plant with room to grow it’s roots then it will stop growing any larger.

By following these care tips and providing your money tree with the right growing conditions, you can enjoy a thriving and prosperous plant that brings beauty and abundance to your home.