The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is more than just a beautiful houseplant; it's a potent symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Hailing from the wetlands of Central and South America, this popular, easy-care tree has become a favorite in homes and offices, especially in the practice of Feng Shui. Its iconic braided trunk is thought to trap and lock in good fortune. The five elements of Feng Shui Wood, Water, Earth, Fire, and Metal.
Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or a beginner, following a few key care practices will help your Money Tree not just survive, but thrive and, perhaps, bring a little extra luck your way!
What is The Perfect Spot, Light, and Temperature For The Money Tree?
Your Money Tree needs the right environment to grow tall and healthy.
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Light Requirements: Money Trees flourish in bright, indirect light. They naturally grow in the shade of larger trees, so avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. A good spot is near an east-facing window, or a few feet away from a south or west-facing one. Additionally, considering supplementing sunlight with a grow light. A Soltech Versa can provide the dire need that the money tree has for bright indirect light.
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Temperature & Drafts: As a tropical plant, your Money Tree prefers a consistently warm temperature, ideally between (65 degrees and 85 degrees) Keep your plant away from cold drafts, air conditioner vents, or heaters, as sudden temperature changes can stress the plant and cause leaf drop.
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Humidity: Money Trees love a moderate to high level of moisture in the air. If your home is dry, especially in winter, you can mist the leaves regularly or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to increase humidity around the plant.
Here Is The Quickest Way To Know If Your Money Tree Needs Water And How To Fix It!
The leading cause of Money Tree demise is overwatering. While they originate from wetlands, their roots in a pot are susceptible to root rot if they sit in soggy soil.
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When to Water: Only water your Money Tree when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. You can use your finger or a moisture meter to check.
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How to Water: Water the plant thoroughly with room-temperature water until the excess liquid drains out of the bottom of the pot. Crucially, empty the saucer immediately; never let the plant sit in standing water.
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Drainage is Non-Negotiable: Always use a pot with proper drainage holes. A well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix that contains materials like peat moss and perlite or vermiculite is recommended.
Feeding, Pruning, and Troubleshooting
Caring for your Money Tree involves seasonal adjustments and watching for signs of stress.
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Fertilizing: During the active growing season (early spring to mid-autumn/summer), feed your plant monthly or every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Stop fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).
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Pruning: Prune your tree to maintain its shape or remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut the leaf off at the base of the stem. For heavier pruning, do it in winter when growth has slowed.
Common Issues:
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Why Are My Money Trees Leaves Yellow or Dropping?: This is often a sign of stress, most commonly due to overwatering or insufficient light. Check your soil and adjust your care routine.
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What Pests Are My Money Tree Attracting?: Money Trees can attract pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Check the leaves monthly and treat any infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
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Why Is My Money Tree Growing In Leggy?: If your plant looks sparse or "stretched out," it's likely not receiving enough light. Move it to a brighter location.
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The Feng Shui Connection: Placement for Luck
The Money Tree is a celebrated Feng Shui tool used to attract financial success and positive energy.
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What Is The Wealth Corner?: The most popular location for a Money Tree is the southeast corner of your home or office, as this area is traditionally associated with financial prosperity and abundance.
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Other Auspicious Spots: Placing it near the entryway is believed to draw in prosperity as it enters your home, or in your office/workspace to attract career success.
Check out this blog from Soltech on How to Cultivate Feng Shui in your space!
Caring for the Money Tree is an act of intention, blending simple horticulture with a tradition of cultivating prosperity and well-being in your home. Remember, this resilient tropical plant needs bright, indirect light and is extremely sensitive to overwatering, with root rot being the most common threat. Prosperity flourishes with balance: water deeply only when the top few inches of soil are dry, and ensure you consistently empty that saucer.
