How to Grow a Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)? Care Methods and Things to Note

The scientific name of the money tree is Pachira aquatica, also known as Malabar chestnut or Guiana chestnut. It is a common ornamental green plant, and its seeds are also edible. So, how do you grow a money tree? Let's find out together!

1. Soil

Soil is one of the core points in growing a money tree, so choosing the right soil is very important. The money tree is a relatively large tree species among flowering plants, so fertility is the top priority when choosing soil. Generally, black soil is relatively better. If you don't have black soil, that's fine too, just make your own compost. First, break up the soil, trying not to leave any large clods, then mix in about one fifth of the total volume of sand and stir, preferably river sand. After stirring, add a small amount of fertilizer and mix, then add a small amount of base fertilizer into the dug planting hole.

2. Greenhouse Construction

The greenhouse for growing money trees should mainly use light-transmitting materials, and the top should be able to reduce the intensity of sunlight, because the money tree is a light-loving plant, but it cannot tolerate long-term strong light either. The walls around the greenhouse need to have a large number of vents, and their light transmittance should be a bit stronger, because when sunlight can penetrate through from both sides, it is already light of lower intensity. If the temperature is relatively mild throughout the year and the sunlight intensity in summer is not very high, you can choose to plant directly outdoors.

3. Seedling Management

Farmers should note that money trees are divided into small varieties and large varieties. The small ones can be grown directly in pots, while only the large ones need to be transplanted later. The seedlings in the early stage require more careful management. At this time, keep the temperature above 20 degrees as much as possible so they are not easily damaged by cold. Control the daily light exposure to 4-6 hours; it can be shorter, but not too long, otherwise the money tree is easily scorched by the sun. Large varieties can be transplanted once they reach about 30 cm, and afterward the greenhouse needs to be changed every few months.

4. Fertilizer and Water Management

The money tree is relatively undemanding when it comes to fertilizer and water. In the early stage, generally just place a small amount of base fertilizer at the bottom of the hole. After transplanting, water thoroughly, with the water soaking about 2 cm into the soil, then water about once every 5 days. Watering should follow the principle of frequent but small amounts. Later, this can gradually be extended to once every 2 weeks, watering thoroughly each time. Fertilizer depends on the situation; its root system is relatively underdeveloped, so nutrient absorption varies in speed. Those growing fast can be given a little more, and those growing slowly a little less.

The above is the money tree growing method compiled for you by Tuliu.com. We hope it can help you!