What does an unhealthy money plant look like?

Author: Prof. Keagan Price II  |  Last update: Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Some of the most common Money Tree plant problems are yellowing or browning leaves, stem softening, and leggy growth.

How do I tell if my money plant is dying?

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.

What does a sick money tree look like?

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.

What does an unhealthy Chinese money plant look like?

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.

How do you fix a sick money 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.

5 Money tree plant Problems & Solutions

What does an underwatered money tree look like?

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.

How often should I water my money plant?

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.

What does an overwatered Chinese Money Plant look like?

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.

How do you know if your money plant has root rot?

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.

How to bring a Chinese Money Plant back to life?

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.

How to tell if a money tree is overwatered?

How Do You Know If a Money Tree Is Overwatered?
  1. Brown leaf tips.
  2. Wilting and yellowing leaves.
  3. Brown spots or edges on the leaves.
  4. White powdery mold growth on the stem.
  5. Loss of dark green pigment.
  6. Dark and mushy roots.
  7. Leaves falling off.
  8. Drooping, limp, and falling leaves.

What does fungus look like on money tree?

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.

Where should you not put a money tree?

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.

What is the lifespan of a money plant?

🌱 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.

Should I mist my money plant?

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.

What does an unhealthy money tree look like?

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 cure a sick Money Tree plant?

  1. Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, and stunted growth are the telltale signs of a Money Tree in distress. ...
  2. Yellowing leaves, wilting, and leaf drop signal overwatering. ...
  3. Prune the rot, adjust your watering schedule, and give it some tough love.
  4. Crispy leaves with brown edges and dry soil scream thirst.

What are the first signs of root rot?

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.

Should I mist my Chinese Money Plant?

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.

Where is the best place to put a Chinese Money Plant?

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.

Should I bottom water my money plant?

Water from the bottom and give bright, indirect light. Wait to water until the leaves start to droop - but not too far.

How to make your money plant thrive?

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.

Should I cut the brown tips off my money tree?

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.

Previous article
Will a fan help with sleep apnea?
Next article
What is the best container to use in an air fryer?