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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Money trees prefer bright, indirect light. Place yours near, but not right in front of, a sunny window. If the leaves look scorched, it's getting too much sun (like humans, like plants sometimes), and yellowing leaves means it's not getting enough. Keep it away from vents or drafty areas where temps fluctuate often.
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.
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.
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.
Wash the plant roots under running water to clean the soil off. Use sterilized scissors to trim away rotting roots. Prune back the foliage of your plant. It's heartbreaking but less foliage means the new smaller root system doesn't have to work as hard and will have time to grow.
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.
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.
SOFT, MUSHY TRUNK
A soft trunk and stems on a Money Tree is a sign of overwatering or root rot. It has absorbed too much water and suffocated the plant. You can cut away the entirety of the rotten stems and carefully tend to the remaining healthy plant.
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.
If you can catch your plant in time, when you notice yellowing stems and some softness you may be able to save your plant – allow the soil to dry out thoroughly before you water again and make sure you don't overwater the plant in future! Domed or curved leaves: This can be caused by insufficient light.
Over/underwatering and poor drainage cause leaves to droop; adjust watering and pot setup.
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.
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.
The best window for a money tree is a sunny one in the east, west, or south, which doesn't expose your plant to blazing sunlight. Windows with large trees outside letting in streaks of light through leaves and branches are perfect. Those with curtains to diffuse the light are also great.
Don't expose the money plant to direct sunlight. Epsom salt can be added to it for healthy growth. Don't water the money plant every day; else, its development won't be healthy. Never overfertilize it because doing so risks burning the leaves and damaging the roots.
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.