Money trees prefer humid environments, so it is a good idea to mist the leaves every few days. You can also use a humidifier to increase the humidity in the room, or if you have the space - and feel particularly extra - pop yours in a bright bathroom.
Since this plant is native to Mexico and South America, it's used to a lot higher humidity than we often get in our homes and office! That's why the Money Tree loves to be misted daily. If this isn't something you want to make part of your everyday schedule, then try putting the pot in a tray of pebbles and water.
Spraying the leaves of water can't increase humidity or help the plant in any way, but it can encourage fungal and bacterial infections on the foliage. My advice would be to remove the most affected leaves, and use an antifungal treatment, I use diluted neem oil solution for minor fungal issues.
The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) needs soil with good drainage. It requires moist soil but not wet. Yellow leaves that are not wilted are an indication that you may be overwatering. Make sure that the pot drains well because the Money Tree does not like wet feet. Water when the top two inches of soil are dried out.
Overwatering – Overwatering causes root rot, resulting in yellowing leaves. Insufficient humidity – Arid conditions can cause your plant's leaves to get crispy brown edges before wilting and dropping off.
Plants that are “nutrient-hungry” and prefer slightly acidic soil do well with used coffee grounds added to the topsoil. For instance, Snake Plants, Philodendrons, the Peace Lily, Pothos, Palms, the Jade Plant, and the Money Tree are coffee-loving plants.
If you notice dead, damaged, or diseased leaves on your Money Tree, it's a good idea to remove them. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut any yellow or brown leaves near the base. This will encourage the plant to channel its energy into producing new leaves and prevent any disease from spreading.
You can sometimes find a money tree stalk with seven leaves, which is extra lucky, but that's rare. These traditions lead to the tree's overall appeal and popularity.
Just as in our world, yellow signs mean “caution,” so do yellow leaves on your Money Tree. A yellow leaf here and there is nothing to worry about, but several yellow leaves at once are a pretty sure indication that something is wrong.
Misting is highly recommended at least once a month, and more often with species that enjoy it (see full list below). Be sure to spray the top and underside of your leaves, and if using for cleaning your leaves, wipe the leaves down with a cloth after misting to remove dust.
Repotting your money tree into a slightly larger pot with fresh soil every two to three years encourages root growth. This growth in turn supports a thicker trunk. Make sure the new pot has good drainage to prevent water-logging.
If you are lucky enough to stumble upon a money tree with six leaves, it is believed to indicate great luck and fortune. Generally speaking, these trees typically contain between 5-6 leaves – any more than the expected amount may portend something even greater in store for you!
Rotate the Money Tree every time it's watered to keep even growth and avoid leaning. Check your plant monthly for pests to stay on top of any unwelcome visitors. Make sure to check under the leaves and near the joints of the plants where the leaves attach.
Braided Money Trees have been scientifically proven to be potent air purifiers. How do they do it? In a nutshell, Braided Money Trees are capable of absorbing chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene from the air in indoor environments, as well as converting carbon dioxide to oxygen.
🌳 Strategic pruning shapes your Money Tree and keeps it vibrant. To control height, trim the upper branches. For a fuller look, snip the tips of shorter branches. Remember, patience is key—prune one branch at a time and wait for new growth before going for the next.
There are two main causes of money tree trunk failure: dehydration and rot. If either is an issue, not all is lost! Money tree plants are resilient and with proper care, they can bounce back.
Temperature and Humidity
Like many tropical houseplants, money trees do best with higher temperatures and a moderate amount of humidity. According to Plant Proper, “humidity is a big deal for these plants—if you can, try using a humidity tray or place a humidifier nearby to keep the air around them moist.
Coffee grounds can most certainly be added to your compost and also directly to your soil. Instead of simply tossing them out though, you may wish to incorporate them a bit more thoroughly by digging them in.
The eggshells provide calcium, potassium and magnesium, which are essential for healthy plant growth! Natural pest deterrent – The sharp edges of the eggshells also act as a natural pest deterrent, helping keep critters away from your plants and protecting the roots.
A: Yes, money trees do like to be misted because they are native to tropical rainforests, where they thrive in high-humidity conditions.
If not properly managed, the vigorous growth of money plants sometimes overtakes other plants. Money plants need to be shown a direction from time to time. If not, the leaves can be curly and droopy. Money plant leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals that can be toxic for pets and children.
What Does the Money Tree Plant Symbolize? A holy tree in Feng Shui, the Money Tree symbolizes: In East Asian culture, people often relate the plant to strength, power, and financial success. The tree's vibrant green leaves symbolize vitality and bring positive energy into one's life.