Why are the branches falling off my money tree?

Author: Remington Ebert  |  Last update: Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Over or Under Watering Overwatering is the first suspicion if your Money Tree keeps losing leaves. Too much watering can cause soggy soil, which leads to root rot, dropping plants, and, eventually, plant death. Instead of watering your plant on a schedule, try watering only when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry.

Why is my money plant dropping branches?

A: Money trees may shed leaves due to overwatering, underwatering, exposure to extreme temperatures, pests, or environmental stress.

Will money tree branches grow back?

Absolutely. They store energy in the stems and they can grow back even with just the stem. Just be patient and don't water the kid.

What does an overwatered money tree look like?

Yellowing Leaves

If you see yellowing leaves, you may need to investigate to ensure this isn't due to overwatering. A simple way to tell is to check the soil and see if it's dry. If it's still moist or has been sitting in a drainage tray of excess water, the yellowing leaves are likely due to overwatering.

Is my money tree dead if all the leaves fall off?

Most of the time leaf-drop is totally normal, but occasionally something bigger is at play. Here are some issues that might be causing the leaves on your Ficus Danielle to drop. Your Money Tree prefers to be watered when 50% of the soil volume has dried out.

Money Tree Troubleshooting (Yellow Leaves, Leaves Falling Off & MORE!)

How often should you water a money tree?

The water requirements of your money tree will vary depending on factors, such as the weather, light, and humidity of the space where you keep it. However, a general rule of thumb is to water the money tree once every one to two weeks.

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.

Do money trees need sunlight?

Bright indirect light: A money tree needs daily light, but direct sunlight will scorch its leaves. High humidity: The money tree needs moisture just as much as it needs indirect sunlight. Relatively dry roots: Money trees require moist leaves, but their roots must not sit in water.

How to tell if a money tree 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.

How to make a money tree grow branches?

Cut back the top stems to your desired height, just above a leaf node (the spot where a leaf grows from the stem). This will make the tree focus on growing more branches and leaves lower down, creating a fuller shape.

Why is my money tree peeling?

Like many plants, dehydration occurs when a money tree is kept consistently too dry for too long. Stem by stem, the braided trunk begins to shrivel, and its bark begins to peel away. Why? The water that was stored inside the trunk is being used to help the rest of the plant survive.

Should I keep braiding my money tree?

“If you actually prefer your money tree to grow naturally like it would in the wild, you can leave it unbraided!” However, if you've purchased an already-braided tree, or prefer the look of the intertwined branches, you can braid the trunk as your plant grows.

How do I save my money tree?

Here's how to keep your money tree healthy and happy:
  1. Water when the soil feels completely dry - a lot of it gets stored in the trunk.
  2. Money trees enjoy medium light - think somewhere bright, but without much direct sunlight.
  3. Regular misting will help keep the leaves vibrant and green.

Why has my money tree gone limp?

Inconsistent moisture, overwatering, exposure to cold temperatures or an environmental change are the most common causes of leaf drop for Money Trees. Your plant will tolerate some time in between waterings but be careful to not let the soil go bone dry and then soaking wet too often.

How to know if a money tree needs repotting?

There's no hard-and-fast rule about how big a money tree should be for repotting. If your plant has started to outgrow its existing container with the roots popping out, it's the first sign that it needs to be repotted soon.

Do money trees need to be watered often?

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.

Where is the best place to put a money tree?

The "money area" refers to a specific section of the southeast area of your home that usually receives ample natural light. This area is where you typically carry out financial tasks, like working in your home office. It's considered to be the ideal spot to display a Money Tree as it brings in abundance and good luck.

How long do money trees live?

If you notice there's no new leaf growth and the plant looks too leggy, it may mean you are not giving it enough light. How long do money trees live? If grown in the right conditions and properly cared for, money tree grown indoors has a lifespan of at least a decade, often more.

Are coffee grounds good for a money tree?

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.

How do you perk up a money tree?

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.

Why is my money tree dropping?

Overwatering is the first suspicion if your Money Tree keeps losing leaves. Too much watering can cause soggy soil, which leads to root rot, dropping plants, and, eventually, plant death. Instead of watering your plant on a schedule, try watering only when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry.

What is the superstition about money trees?

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!

How do you make a money tree bushier?

Regular pruning encourages the growth of side branches and results in a thicker trunk. Trimming the top growth can promote bushier growth at the base. It's important to always use clean, sharp pruning shears when doing this to avoid damaging the plant.

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