How to Grow a Money Tree? Detailed Guide to Cultivation Methods and Precautions

The money tree is a plant introduced to China from abroad, and it is currently quite widely distributed in China. It is very popular with consumers, which is presumably inseparable from its feng shui role and efficacy. Many people, when growing a money tree, run into a lot of problems because of poor technique. Let us take a look below at the techniques for growing it!

How to Grow a Money Tree

1. Temperature: The suitable temperature for growth is 20-32°C. Whether potted or planted in the ground, it requires small annual temperature fluctuations. In winter it is best to maintain a greenhouse temperature above 10°C. If the room temperature falls below 5°C, the plant is prone to cold damage and its survival is then seriously endangered. In late autumn and early winter, when the temperature drops below 8°C, it should promptly be moved to a bright indoor location. Throughout the overwintering period, the temperature should be kept between 8°C and 10°C, which is relatively safe and reliable.

2. The money tree has a deep root system, strong roots, and strong sprouting ability. It grows at a medium rate, slower when young and gradually faster later. It is widely adaptable and not demanding about soil; it can grow in slightly acidic and alkaline soils, and it prefers growing in calcareous soil. It is fairly wind-resistant, can withstand low temperatures of minus 25°C, and has strong resistance to dust, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. It has few pests and diseases, and cultivation and management are easy.

Money Tree Cultivation Methods

1. Soil. Growing a money tree only requires ordinary soil; if it is loose and breathable, so much the better. For potted money trees, use a mix of 1 part peat soil, 1 part garden soil, and 1 part river sand, with cake fertilizer as the base fertilizer.

2. Fertilizing. During the growing period, water and fertilizer should be sufficient, and the potting soil should be kept moist. In summer, besides the growing medium, water should also be sprayed on the leaves and the ground, and a dilute fertilizer solution should be applied once a month, mainly nitrogen fertilizer. Avoid direct sunlight in summer, and provide the money tree with appropriate shade. Keep it above 10°C during overwintering; prolonged low temperatures will cause root rot.

3. Light. The money tree likes light, and in northern regions it can receive direct light all year round. After Qingming it can be brought outside and placed in the open, with no need for shade. In winter, place it under a window; if conditions are suitable, the money tree will grow vigorously during this period.

4. Watering. It is best to water the money tree after the soil has dried out completely, and fertilizing should be combined with watering. In summer, it can be placed outdoors to receive rain and dew. Because tap water is weakly alkaline, in winter generally after every 2-4 waterings with tap water, use a diluted solution of soaked orange peel once. In winter, the temperature at a sunny window can reach about 30°C at noon, so it is best to water once a day to keep it moist; after heating is turned on, the room will become even drier.

Precautions for the Money Tree

The money tree grows relatively fast and needs pruning from time to time, otherwise it will keep growing vertically; especially for newly rooted cuttings, if the tips are not pinched back, they will grow into a bare pole. The branches that are cut off can be used for cuttings, otherwise they are wasted.

Pest and Disease Control for the Money Tree

1. Freezing damage. The money tree is prone to freezing damage in winter. In winter, if the temperature drops below 5°C and the potting soil is somewhat moist at this time, the money tree plant is prone to freezing, and lodging may occur. In severe cases, it can also cause rot. In winter, keep the overwintering temperature above 10°C, and water less to keep the potting soil dry.

2. Brown spot disease. When brown spot disease occurs, promptly remove the diseased leaves and spray a fungicide; 50% carbendazim wettable powder or 40% chlorothalonil suspension has a relatively good effect.

3. Sunscald. Sunscald on the money tree mainly occurs in summer or on clear days after rain, and when plants grown indoors for a long time are suddenly moved outdoors and come into direct contact with strong sunlight. When sunscald generally occurs, the leaves of the money tree show chlorosis and turn white, and in severe cases they can also turn black. Therefore, be sure to provide timely shade when the light is strong.

The cultivation methods for the money tree are actually not difficult; you can start from its growth habits. It is not tolerant of strong light, so in summer be sure to provide shade. The money tree is also very susceptible to diseases, so disease control is also a key step.