What to Do When a Money Tree Loses Its Leaves? Cause Analysis and Solutions
The money tree (Pachira aquatica) is a very lovely foliage plant with round, plump leaves that give it a charmingly cute look, making it deeply loved by many growers. So what causes a money tree to drop its leaves? And what should you do about it? Next, Shuaishuai will explain the causes of leaf drop in money trees and the solutions!
The money tree is a foliage plant by nature, so if its leaves drop, it greatly diminishes its ornamental value. There must be a reason for it. Next, Shuaishuai will analyze it from the following aspects, so let's read on.
I. Causes of Leaf Drop in Money Trees
1. Insufficient Light
If the money tree is placed in a very dark spot for a long time and its light requirements are not met, the lack of light will affect the plant's photosynthesis, causing the leaves to turn yellow or, in severe cases, drop off.
2. Poor Ventilation
The air permeability of the growing environment is very important. If the environment is not well ventilated, the money tree will lack oxygen, causing the leaves to turn yellow or fall off. This happens in offices and crowded, stuffy public places, so pay attention to these details that cause leaf drop.
3. Cold Wind Exposure and Long-Term Waterlogging
The money tree is not cold-tolerant. Especially in winter, if it is kept outdoors, it is very likely to be hit by cold winds. If we do not take protective measures, the leaves will wilt and turn yellow or, in severe cases, drop off.
4. Improper Fertilization
Fertilizer should be applied at the appropriate concentration. You must not apply very strong, concentrated fertilizer or raw, unfermented fertilizer, as this can also cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop. Although the money tree likes moisture, it dislikes waterlogged soil, so just keep the soil moist and do not let water accumulate.
5. Root Rot and Pest or Disease Damage
Long-term excessive water accumulation in the potting soil will cause root rot, as everyone surely understands. If the roots rot, nutrient absorption will be affected, leading to yellowing and falling leaves. Pests will suck the nutrients from the leaves, disrupting their growth and causing the leaves to become damaged and drop off.
II. Solutions for Leaf Drop in Money Trees
1. Supplement Light and Ventilate Promptly
First, make sure the money tree gets several hours of light every day. It should not be kept indoors all day. Supplement what it needs for growth and do not let it interfere with its photosynthesis. If grown indoors, be sure to keep the environment well ventilated and open the windows for air from time to time, and the same goes for winter.
2. Fertilize Reasonably and Water Moderately
Keep the fertilizer concentration moderate, neither too strong nor too weak, and apply warm fertilizer. Do not water too much either. Wait until the potting soil is completely dry before watering, and do not let water accumulate at the bottom of the pot, or the roots will rot. Be sure to control the number and frequency of waterings.
3. Prune Rotten Roots and Control Pests
Once you find a rotting plant, be sure to cut it away, then deal with the rotten soil portion, replace it with new potting soil, and make sure the soil is loose, breathable, and well-draining. When you find live insects, you can wipe them off with a damp cloth. For large-scale cultivation or severe infestations, you can use professional pesticides for spraying and pest control.
That is all about the causes and solutions for leaf drop in money trees. Have you learned it? The money tree is a foliage plant, so if its leaves drop, it will seriously affect its ornamental value. Therefore, in addition to your usual care of the plant, you must always guard against pests. The harm caused by pests is very great, and once they are found, they must be killed immediately.