9GreenBox May Newsletters : Add a Money Tree to Your Home for a Tropical Vibe!

Money Tree are exotic plants native to Central and South America, commonly kept indoors and said to bring good luck and fortune. In the wild they can grow up to sixty feet tall, but are easily maintained in small pots as bonsai. A popular look is to twist the branches into beautiful braided shapes.

When the plant first arrives, the leaves may be yellow or droopy. Money Tree are especially susceptible to shock after being moved, so don't be discouraged. With tender care, the tree should bounce right back. Keep it away from any cold drafts and place it in a warmly lit area. Make sure not to overwater, as overwatering is the number one cause of death for plants. Here we have some more detailed instructions on how to properly care for your tropical plant

Lighting

With their natural habitat being in thick rainforests, indirect lighting is best. Keep a close eye on the plant to get accustomed to its needs- if the leaves begin drooping, then it may need more light. If the plant is outside, then choose a shady area, as too much sun can burn the leaves. Make sure to turn the pot every few days so the plant grows upright and establishes a sturdy trunk, as plants tend to grow towards their light source and may tilt dramatically if left alone for too long. They like a room temperature at about 60F/16C.

Watering

These plants are hardy in zones 10 to 11 and thrive in warm, humid conditions. Water them so that they're soaked through the roots until water pours out the drain holes, then wait until the soil has dried completely before watering again, which will be about once every one or two weeks. If the plant is in a dry area, you can place a tray filled with pebbles and rocks to help bring moisture to the air. Misting the leaves is even better. The plant may need more during water if the season is especially hot and arid, and during winter water the plant much less. Try not to get water on the trunk, or it can rot or become vulnerable to fungi.

Fertilizing

For healthy growth, feed the tree twice a month during spring through fall with a liquid fertilizer at half the dosage. When the plant uses up all the nutrients in the soil, the nutrients must be replenished, or else the tree will slowly die. Refrain from fertilizing during winter as Money Trees like to go dormant during the colder months.

Repotting

After two years, your Money Tree will need to be transferred to a new pot. Select a container with plenty of room for the roots, but not so much room that holds too much water and can cause root rot. Using a smaller pot can help keep the plant smaller as well. The fresh soil should be equal parts peat moss and perlite to encourage quick drainage. If there are no drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, either drill some or find a new pot to use.