Complete guide to money tree care

A money tree (pachira aquatica) is a popular houseplant for many reasons. It is easy to care for, grows quickly, and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the home. In this guide, we'll chat through all the important aspects of money tree care, from watering and fertilising to propagating and repotting. Here's how to keep your money tree healthy and happy:

• Water when the soil feels completely dry - a lot of it gets stored in the trunk
• Money trees enjoy medium light - think somewhere bright, but without much direct sunlight
• Regular misting will help keep the leaves vibrant and green

The money tree is known by many lovely names: French peanut, Guiana nut, Malabar chestnut, provision tree, monguba, pumpo, Ariel. Or to botanists, pachira aquatica. It’s usually found growing in swamps in Central and South America. It’s plaited trunk doesn’t occur naturally, but it’s become traditional to plait it when grown as a houseplant. It’s believed that the tradition for plaiting this plant’s trunk started in the 1980s, when a Taiwanese truck driver decided they looked better that way. We won't complain.

Money trees store a lot of water in their trunks, so don't need to be watered regularly. If the soil feels completely dry, it is time to water. Water the soil until it is thoroughly saturated and allow the excess water to drain away. Do not let the soil become soggy or waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.

Money trees should be fed with a balanced liquid fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertiliser to half strength and apply it to the soil around the root zone.

Money trees prefer bright, indirect sunlight. A south- or east-facing window is ideal, but make sure to avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. If your money tree is not getting enough light, its leaves may become pale and droopy.

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.

Money trees should be repotted every two to three years, or when the roots become pot-bound. Signs your plant is pot-bound are the roots coming out of the nursery pot, twisting tightly inside the pot, or your plant is struggling to grow. When repotting, make sure to use a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix.

Pruning is not necessary for money tree care, but you can trim off any dead or damaged leaves as needed.

Money trees can be propagated via stem or air layering. Both methods allow you to create a new money tree from a single stem. Learn more about propagation here.

Money trees are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few common problems that can arise. These include leaf drop, yellowing leaves, and root rot. Make sure to address these issues as soon as possible to keep your money tree healthy.

With proper care and attention, your money tree will thrive and bring good luck and prosperity to your home.