Money Tree Care 💸 (9 Things You Want to Know to Grow a Pretty Plant)

How it Gained Popularity

Have you wondered how the Money Tree Plant became so popular?

The story starts in the 1980s. A Taiwanese truck driver had an idea.

He saw the tree's flexible trunks. He decided to braid them. The result was beautiful and it became an instant local hit.

The braided trunk look meant unity and connection.

Not to mention he also made a fortune.

Now, the Money Tree is global. It's in homes and offices.

It's loved for its beauty. And for the luck, people believe it brings.

#2. Meaning Behind the Money Tree ☯

Trees have always held a special meaning to people. They've been valued for ages. They show growth. They symbolize strength. They connect the earth and the sky.

For the Money Tree, it's even more special, especially in Asian cultures.

Symbolism in Feng Shui

Have you heard of Feng Shui? It's an ancient Chinese practice. It's about balancing your environment and nature plays a big role in it.

You might notice the Money Tree's braided trunks. Or its leaves, often in groups of five. These features are more than just aesthetics.

In Feng Shui, 5 leaves represent the five key elements: Wood 🪵, Water 💧,  Earth 🌍, Fire 🔥, Metal 🪙. And the braided trunk look means unity and connection.

Imagine having these elements balanced in your space. You'd have positive energy or "chi". It brings well-being. Prosperity. Harmony.

So, where do you place a Money Tree? Feng Shui suggests the southeast corner. Whether it's your home or business.

Why?

It's believed to attract wealth and abundance.

Now then.

How do you care for this beautiful indoor plant?

Keep reading to learn about light, watering, and other best care practices. 👇

#3. Where Do You Place Your Money Tree to Give It the Best Light?💡

Ideal Lighting Conditions

Light is vital for your Money Tree's growth. It's part of the essential process called photosynthesis. 

For photosynthesis, your Money Tree takes water from the soil and carbon dioxide from the air. Sunlight acts as a catalyst, powering the reaction that transforms these ingredients into glucose, a type of sugar that serves as the plant’s food, and oxygen, which is released back into the air.

This is how your Money Tree provides itself with energy that is needed for its survival and growth.

What kind of light does your Money Tree need?

Money Trees love bright, indirect light ✅. Think about their original home: tropical areas. There, they enjoy dappled sunlight, shielded by bigger trees.

Yes, they can also manage in low light ✅ or partial shade. Though the growth might be slower (as they receive less energy from the sunlight)

But intense, direct sunlight? That's a no-go ⛔. It burns their leaves, turning them brown or yellow.

Now, you might ask, "What counts as low or bright light?". How much light is enough light?

Let's break it down:

Best Places for Your Money Tree at Home 🏡

North-facing Windows (Northern Hemisphere)✅: These windows offer gentle light all day. Perfect for your Money Tree. It gets enough indirect light without any risk. If you're in the Southern Hemisphere, look to south-facing windows.

East-facing Windows✅: Everywhere in the world, these windows offer soft morning sun. You can place your Money Tree here too. It'll soak up the gentle early rays without getting burnt by the harsh afternoon sun.

West and South-facing Windows (Northern Hemisphere)❓: Be careful here with this sunny window. The sun is strong, especially in the afternoon for the west-facing windows. In the Southern Hemisphere, it's the north and west-facing windows you should watch out for. 

Other Things to Think About 💭:

• Natural Barriers 🌳: Got a tree or tall building outside your window? Great! They can shield your plant from direct sun, giving it the indirect light it loves. However, if it's a north-facing window, your houseplant might be getting too little light.

• Distance from Window: If the sun's too bright, move your Money Tree deeper into the room. The further it is from the window, the softer the light.

• Sheer Curtains: These can be your Money Tree's best friend on the sunny window. They scatter the sunlight, making sure your plant gets indirect light without any risk of burns.

Photo by Yasmina H on Unsplash

👉 Money Trees are quite adaptable and can thrive in a range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for various indoor environments! 🏡

#4. This is How You Water Your Money Tree 💦

Determining Water Needs

The Money Tree's natural habitat of tropical wetlands can lead many to assume it requires frequent watering. The truth is that while Money Tree needs water, it definitely won't enjoy the standing water and soggy soil.

So in home settings, it's crucial to find a balance to prevent both underwatering and overwatering.

How do you do that?

Here are a few tricks:

• Soil Test: Before watering, it's a good practice to check the soil's moisture. Dip your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry at this depth, it's time to water. If it's still moist, wait a few more days.

• Frequency: Typically, Money Tree Plants require watering once every 7-10 days. However, this can vary based on the environment. In drier climates or during hotter spring and summer months, you might need to water more frequently. Conversely, in humid conditions or winter, reduce the frequency.

• Amount: When you water, ensure that the water reaches the root level. This often means watering until you see some excess water drain out from the bottom. Always ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid stagnant water at the base.

Common Watering Mistakes to Avoid 🛑

• Using Cold Water: Always use room temperature water. Cold water can shock the plant, leading to leaf drop.

• Not Adjusting to Seasons: Plants generally need less water in the winter months when they are not in their active growth phase. Overwatering during these periods can be harmful.

• Ignoring Drainage: Not having proper drainage can lead to root rot. Ensure your pot has adequate drainage holes and the saucer beneath the pot is emptied regularly.

Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering ❌

Overwatering 🌊:

• Yellow Leaves: While one or two yellow leaves might be fine, if you notice multiple leaves turning yellow, especially the younger ones, it might be a sign of overwatering.

• Soggy Soil: If the soil remains wet for a prolonged period, it's an indication of excessive water.

• Mold or Algae Growth: Mold or algae on the soil surface is a clear sign of overwatering.

• Root Rot: The roots become mushy and dark. Regularly check the bottom of the pot to ensure there's no stagnant water.

Underwatering 🏜:

• Brown Leaf Tips: The edges of the leaves turning brown and crispy can indicate underwatering or very dry air.

• Droopy Leaves: A Money Tree with droopy or limp leaves may need water. However, do cross-check with the soil moisture level to confirm.

#5.Why Humidity is Important for Your Money Tree?💧

Why Humidity Matters

Your Money Tree comes from the tropical swamps of Central and South America. Here, moisture is the name of the game.

It's what they've grown up with.

Here is why humidity is so important:

Money Tree (like other plants) stores lots of water in its leaves. They also use humidity to regulate the natural process called transpiration. 

In this process water moves through a plant and evaporates from aerial parts, such as leaves, stems, and flowers. This process is crucial for the plant's water regulation, nutrient uptake, and temperature control.
Low Humidity ⬇ can lead to increase transpiration rates, rapid water loss and plants stress. 

So you want to target at least 50% humidity at your place to make sure your Money Tree is happy. 

Here is how you do this:

How to Keep it Humid:

Misting:

• Spray water on the leaves every day. Make sure it doesn't accumulate on the leaves as it can cause the mold in some severe cases.

Pebble Tray:

• Get a tray. Fill it with water. Add in some pebbles or stones. Place your Money Tree's pot on these pebbles, but sure that it doesn't absorb the water through the drainage holes. 

Group with Other Plants:

• It's a team effort. When plants stick together, they evaporate water through transpiration and therefore create a humid micro climate around them. 

Use a Humidifier:

• A humidifier can be your plant's best friend, especially in those dry winter months. 

#6. What is The Best Soil for Your Money Tree? 🪴

The Ideal Soil Composition

Money Trees prefer a well-draining soil that offers a balance between retaining enough moisture for the roots while preventing waterlogging.

• Potting Mix: A general-purpose indoor potting mix often works well for Money Trees. You can also opt for mixes designed for cacti or succulents, which ensure good drainage.

• Additives: Consider adding 20-30% perlite, pumice, or bark to your general purpose potting mix to enhance drainage.

  👉 You Might Also Like: What is The Best Potting Soil to Use For Indoor Plants?

The Importance of Proper Drainage

Ensuring proper drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, a common issue with Money Trees if they sit in stagnant water.

• Drainage Holes: Always use pots with drainage holes. This allows excess water to escape, ensuring the soil doesn't remain waterlogged.

• Empty Saucers: While saucers can catch overflow, be sure to empty them after each watering. Sitting in water can make the soil too wet, leading to root problems.

#7. How Do You Fertilize Your Money Tree? 🧪

Benefits of Fertilizing Your Money Tree

Like all indoor plants, Money Trees absorb nutrients from the soil. Over time, these nutrients get depleted and need replenishment for the plant to thrive.

• Enhanced Growth: Regular fertilization will lead to more robust growth, allowing the tree to produce healthy and beautiful leaves.

• Disease Resistance: Proper nutrition also helps the Money Tree strengthen its natural defenses against diseases and pests.

Fertilizing Schedule and Best Practices 🧪

• Frequency: Money Trees don't need a lot of fertilization. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize once a month.

• When Not to Fertilize: In the dormant months of fall and winter, you can reduce the frequency to once every 2-3 months or even skip fertilizing altogether. Do not fertilize your Money Tree plant if it's not feeling well - try to find the root cause of the problem and fix it first.

• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (like a 20-20-20). Ensure to follow the exact recommendation from the manufacturer to avoid over-fertilizing and potentially burning the roots.

#8. Common Pests Affecting Money Trees 🪲

Ensuring the health of your Money Tree involves being vigilant against potential pests and diseases.

Below is a guide to help you identify, prevent, and treat common issues affecting Money Trees.  👇

Common Pests Affecting Money Trees

Holes in the leaves are oftentimes caused by the pest infestation

Spider Mites: Signs and Symptoms

Spider mites are minuscule arachnids that might cause yellowing of leaves and fine white webbing.

• Signs: Webbing beneath leaves, yellowing foliage.

• Treatment: Keep humidity levels up, as dry conditions attract them. If you spot an infestation, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Fungus Gnats: Identifying and Addressing Infestations

Tiny, fly-like pests, fungus gnats are attracted to moist soil.

• Signs: Adult gnats flying around the plant and soil. Larvae, which resemble tiny worms, can be found in the soil.

• Treatment: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Sticky traps can catch adult gnats, and beneficial nematodes in the soil can deal with the larvae.

Whiteflies: How to Recognize and Remove

Whiteflies are small white-winged insects that can suck the sap out of plants.

• Signs: Tiny white insects flying off the plant when disturbed.

• Treatment: Regularly inspect the underside of leaves. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can deter these pests.

Mealybugs: Effective Treatments for Money Trees

Cottony-looking pests, mealybugs can be found where leaves join stems or beneath the leaves.

• Signs: Cotton-like white clusters on the plant.

• Treatment: Isolate the affected plant. Use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to dab at the bugs. Neem oil can also be effective.

#9. Additional Care Tips 🎓

To ensure that your Money Tree not only survives but thrives in your home , it's essential to incorporate additional care tips.

These will cater to the unique characteristics of this beautiful plant and help you maintain it effectively.

Pruning for Health and Aesthetics ✂

Just as with many indoor plants, pruning can serve dual purposes: promoting better health and enhancing visual appeal.

• Health: By removing dead or yellowing leaves and overcrowded stems, you allow the Money Tree to redirect its energy to healthy growth.

• Aesthetics: Pruning can shape your Money Tree, giving it a more structured appearance and allowing it to fit seamlessly into your home's decor.

Braiding Money Trees at Home 

One of the distinctive features of many Money Trees is their braided trunks. Here's how you can achieve this look:

• Selecting Stems: Start by selecting three young, supple stems that are close together.

• Braiding Process: Gently braid these stems, ensuring not to snap or damage them. As the tree grows, continue the braiding pattern.

• Support: Initially, you may need to use ties or supports to maintain the braid as the tree matures.

Is Money Tree Toxic for Pets?

Good news for pet owners:

• Pet Safe: According to ASPCA, Money Trees are generally pet friendly. However, any plant can cause digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.

  👉 You Might Also Like: 10 Best Low Light Pet Friendly Indoor Plants (With Pictures) 🐶

Seasonal Care Variations

As seasons change, so do the needs of your Money Tree:

• Winter ❄: The tree requires less water in colder months. Ensure it's away from drafty windows or heating vents.

• Summer ☀: During warmer months, you might find that your Money Tree needs more frequent watering. However, always ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Using a Self-Watering Pot

For those with a busy schedule or prone to forget to water:

• Benefits: These pots have a built-in reservoir, ensuring the plant gets a steady supply of water without being waterlogged.

• Choosing the Right One: Ensure the pot is adequately sized for your Money Tree and that it offers proper drainage to prevent root diseases.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your Money Tree is both an art and a science.

Throughout this guide, you've discovered what makes this plant flourish.

With the knowledge on light, watering, humidity, tackling pests, and those extra care tips on pruning and braiding, you've got what it takes to let your Money Tree flourish.

Happy Planting! 🪴

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❔

How often should I repot my Money Tree?

It's generally recommended to repot a Money Tree every two years, or when you notice its roots are outgrowing its current container. This allows the tree to access fresh soil and have room to grow. Always use a pot only 1-2 inches bigger than the current one.

Is it bad luck if a Money Tree dies?

While Money Trees are often associated with good fortune, especially in Feng Shui practices, the death of one doesn't necessarily bring bad luck. Instead, it's an invitation to introspect on its care and perhaps learn from any mistakes.

Can I propagate a Money Tree from cuttings?

Yes, Money Trees can be propagated from cuttings. Select a healthy branch, allow it to form a callous for a day, then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until roots form, usually within a few weeks.

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