Some of the most common Money Tree plant problems are yellowing or browning leaves, stem softening, and leggy growth.
Yellowing soft stems/black stems/plant is falling apart is caused by overwatering. This will then result in root rot/root disease and your plant will fall apart, turn soft and mushy and die.
Moisture issues → if it is overwatering, the plant will have soggy stems and yellow, soft leaves with potential brown spots, if it is under-watering, the plant may have droopy, crispy leaves with compacted soil. Improper lighting → Money Trees can adapt to lower light levels but growth may slow and leaves may be shed.
Too much direct sunlight and the leaves will burn, too little light can result in the plant becoming rather straggly with sparse leaves and even turning yellow. Dark green leaves and not overly-droopy leaf stems are characteristics of a healthy plant.
First, follow a consistent watering routine. Allow the top inches of potting soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Trim affected leaves to encourage new growth. If you suspect fungal or bacterial infections, isolate the plant to prevent the spread and apply a fungicide or bactericide as directed.
Browning leaves or leaves with brown spots is a sign that your Money Tree is underwatered. Take note of the brown spots and be sure there isn't a yellow halo around the spot, which would point to overwatering as the issue.
Water your money plant once every one to two weeks, or when the soil volume is 50 to 75% dry. The plant will likely need water more frequently during spring and summer months. Be sure that your planter has drainage holes, so the roots aren't sitting in excess water.
If you notice that the leaves of your plant are turning yellow or falling off, it's likely it has been overwatered. Gently pull off the yellowing leaves close to the soil to allow the plant to concentrate on its healthy growth. Make sure that the soil is allowed to dry out a little before you next water him.
You can tell if the money tree is suffering from root rot if the leaves begin to wilt, discolor, or drop, if you notice a rotting smell from the soil, or if the base of the stem is soft and mushy. If one of your money tree stems is dead, don't worry! You can still save the other stems before they decline, too.
Simply remove the yellowing leaves and watch for signs of new growth. According to The Sill, Chinese money plants are quite low-maintenance. However, they are susceptible to spider mites and mealybug attacks. Horticultural neem oil can be hugely helpful against houseplant pests.
Leaf rot is a common disease affecting Money tree, causing its leaves to yellow, blacken, and deteriorate. It is caused by fungal pathogens, is highly contagious, and can lead to plant death if untreated. Leaf spot is a common plant disease that affects Money tree, causing yellowing spots or blights on its foliage.
It is not recommended to place the plant in areas that have low light or no natural sunlight. Aside from the best places to ensure the plant is healthy, the Money Tree is traditionally placed in the Southeast area of your home, as this is considered the point of wealth and abundance.
🌱 Germination takes 4-8 weeks, with proper moisture, warmth, and air. 📏 Maturation time is 5-10 years, with care extending lifespan to 10-15 years.
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.
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.
How to check for root rot. The main signs to look out for are: yellowing, wilting leaves, wet soil that isn't drying, black, wet roots, quickly declining health, and stunted growth.
Regular misting will make it happy
Chinese money plants aren't too fussy about humidity - any room will do. But they don't like environments that are too dry. So give yours a light misting every now and then. If you have other plants that like humidity, try keeping them all close together.
Keep in a warm spot, ideally above 10°C. Let her soak up the sunshine – but keep away from windows to avoid scorching. Wipe Penny's glossy leaves with a dust cloth once in a while to remove dust.
Water from the bottom and give bright, indirect light. Wait to water until the leaves start to droop - but not too far.
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.
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.