Skip to main content

How do I care for a Money Tree and ensure its health after delivery or in a new home?

Updated today

Comprehensive Care Guide for Money Trees

Money Trees (Pachira aquatica) are beautiful and low-maintenance houseplants that thrive with proper care. Whether acclimating a recently delivered plant or maintaining an established one, these tips will help keep your Money Tree healthy and vibrant.

Getting Started: Acclimating a Newly Arrived or Replaced Money Tree

  1. Expect Initial Adjustments: Upon arrival, it's normal for your Money Tree to show minor yellowing or leaf drop during the first two weeks. This is part of its adjustment to its new environment. - Trim yellow, brown, or damaged leaves using clean, sharp scissors to encourage new growth.

  2. Set Up the Watering System: Easyplant’s self-watering reservoir simplifies watering practices. Fill the reservoir with room-temperature tap water (or distilled water if tap water is softened or hard). Check it monthly and refill only when: - The reservoir is empty; and - The top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry.

  3. Choose the Ideal Spot: Place your Money Tree in bright, indirect light. East-facing or west-facing windows are ideal, providing 6–8 hours of light. While some Money Trees can adapt to direct sunlight, introduce it gradually to prevent leaf burn. Avoid low-light environments.

  4. Minimize Stress: - Avoid placing the plant near heating or cooling vents, radiators, or drafty windows. Consistent temperature and humidity are key to preventing stress. - Allow the plant time to adjust in a stable location; frequent moves can hinder growth.


Ongoing Maintenance Tips for Thriving Money Trees

  1. Watering Management: Continuously monitor the self-watering reservoir system. A good rule of thumb is to check both the reservoir level and soil dryness every month or two. Do not overfill the reservoir to avoid root rot.

  2. Pruning for Health: Regular pruning keeps your Money Tree healthy. Use clean scissors to remove any damaged, yellow, or brown leaves. - If a single leaf is damaged, cut at the stem where it meets the cluster of leaves. - If a cluster is entirely yellow or browning, prune at the main stem junction.

  3. Occasional Rotation: Rotate the plant every few weeks to ensure even light exposure and balanced growth.


Helping Money Trees Recover from Stress or Damage

  1. Post-Shipping or Environmental Stress: - Place the plant where it receives bright, indirect light (avoid abrupt placement in direct sunlight). - Check for drafts or extreme temperature swings near windows or vents. - Remove affected leaves immediately to redirect energy toward healthy growth.

  2. Boosting Humidity: - To enhance humidity, consider grouping plants together or placing a humidifier nearby. Alternatively, a pebble tray filled with water can help maintain consistent moisture levels around the plant.

  3. Revitalization Techniques: - If leaves are curling/yellowing, inspect the reservoir to ensure proper watering. Loosening compacted soil gently can support wicking from the reservoir.


Key Environmental Considerations

  1. Temperature Range: Maintain temperatures between 65°F-75°F (18°C-24°C). Avoid cold drafts in winter and direct heat from radiators.

  2. Lighting Guidelines: Bright, indirect light is optimal. Gradually adapt the plant to partial direct sunlight if desired. Avoid sudden shifts in light exposure, which can shock the plant.


Advanced Care & Tips for Enthusiasts

  1. Fertilizer: (Optional) Add vitamins or dilute fertilizers when refilling the reservoir. A balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength can promote vibrant growth. Follow manufacturer dosing recommendations.

  2. Repotting: If reusing an easyplant self-watering pot, ensure you clean and reset the wick at planting depth for optimal hydration. Use a coco-coir blend or a well-draining soil mix.


These comprehensive strategies ensure your Money Tree remains healthy, beautiful, and an integral part of your home or workspace for years to come! For additional species-specific guidelines, refer to the printed care guide or Plant Care Library.

Did this answer your question?