Money Tree Overview
Pachira Aquatica, also known as the Money Tree or Malabar Chestnut, is a popular indoor plant. Originating from Central and South America, it is believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owners. This small tree can grow up to six feet tall and features a braided trunk with green, glossy leaves. While it is relatively easy to care for, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure your Money Tree thrives.
Lighting and Temperature
Money Trees prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light can cause the leaves to drop. Place your plant near a window that gets plenty of light, but make sure it is not in direct sunlight. If you notice that the leaves are turning yellow, it may be a sign that your plant is getting too much light.
Temperature is also important for the health of your Money Tree. It prefers temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep your plant away from drafts and cold temperatures, as this can cause the leaves to drop.
Lighting and Temperature Checklist
- Place your Money Tree near a window that gets plenty of bright, indirect light
- Keep your plant away from direct sunlight
- If the leaves turn yellow, it may be a sign that your plant is getting too much light
- Maintain a temperature between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit
- Keep your plant away from drafts and cold temperatures
Watering and Humidity
Proper watering is crucial for the health of your Money Tree. It prefers to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for your plant.
Humidity is also important for the health of your Money Tree. It prefers a humid environment, so you may want to consider placing a humidifier near your plant. Misting the leaves with water can also help increase humidity.
Watering and Humidity Checklist
- Water your Money Tree when the top inch of soil has dried out
- Do not overwater your plant, as this can lead to root rot
- Consider placing a humidifier near your plant to increase humidity
- Mist the leaves with water to increase humidity
Fertilizing and Pruning
Money Trees do not require frequent fertilizing, but it can help promote growth. Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to burnt roots.
Pruning is also important for the health of your Money Tree. Prune away any dead or damaged leaves or branches to promote new growth. You can also prune your plant to control its size and shape.
Fertilizing and Pruning Checklist
- Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer
- Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to burnt roots
- Prune away any dead or damaged leaves or branches to promote new growth
- Prune your plant to control its size and shape
Repotting
Money Trees do not require frequent repotting, but it is important to do so when the plant outgrows its current pot. Repot your plant in a pot that is one size larger and use well-draining soil. Be careful not to overwater your plant after repotting, as this can lead to root rot.
Repotting Checklist
- Repot your plant in a pot that is one size larger when it outgrows its current pot
- Use well-draining soil
- Do not overwater your plant after repotting, as this can lead to root rot
Conclusion
Taking care of your Money Tree is relatively easy, but it is important to keep in mind its specific needs. Proper lighting, temperature, watering, humidity, fertilizing, pruning, and repotting are all important factors in ensuring your plant thrives. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can enjoy the good luck and fortune that the Money Tree is believed to bring.