Proper Care for a Money Tree
When given proper care, a money tree plant makes an ideal addition for containers, rock gardens or indoor house plants. There are several varieties of money tree plants; the most common being Crassula ovate, Lunaria annua and Pachira aquatic, with nicknames such as Money Tree or Jade. Money tree plants are succulent indoor house plants often displayed as braided bonsai plants. These evergreen plants have numerous trunks that grow upward in various directions, tending to wind around each other. The foliage of a money tree is lush and green at the top of the plant, resembling a small tree.
Ensure the soil is well-draining. Avoid soil blends containing peat moss or synthetics designed to retain water. Inadequate drainage will result in decaying roots and stems. A proper soil mix that will help a money tree thrive includes an organic topsoil, sand, perlite, haydite and small stones or gravel. Positioning the money tree on a slight slope will also help to ensure proper drainage.
- When given proper care, a money tree plant makes an ideal addition for containers, rock gardens or indoor house plants.
Provide adequate intervals of sunlight. Money tree plants are tender plants that require indirect sun. Avoid direct sun or extreme heat; both will cause scorching and loss of foliage. Aim for five hours of sun exposure daily with adequate periods of shade.
Allow the soil to dry somewhat in between watering. Depending on the size of the container or plant, water once weekly may be sufficient. Frequent, light misting with a spray bottle may be preferred to keep leaves dust-free. Leaves of a money tree plant turning yellow or falling off prematurely indicates too much watering. Withering or curling leaves indicate a thirsty money tree plant.
- Provide adequate intervals of sunlight.
- Allow the soil to dry somewhat in between watering.
Deter pests from a money tree plant by misting lightly with a solution of 1 tbsp. of liquid soap to 1 gallon of water. According to "Plants for Interiors" by the North Dakota State University Extension, pests common to the money tree plant include mealy bugs, scale aphids and spider mites.
Be sure to protect money tree plants from frost and extreme temperatures.
Tip
Place broken stems or leaf cuts in soil in order for easy propagation.
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Tips
- Place broken stems or leaf cuts in soil in order for easy propagation.
Writer Bio
Patricia Hill is a freelance writer who contributes to several websites and organizations, including various private sectors. She also contributes to the online magazine, Orato.com. Empowered by a need to reveal that unhealthy food and diet is a source of health-related issues, Hill is currently working on a cookbook and website for individuals with Crohn's disease.
