Money Tree: Growing from Seed and Cuttings, So Many You Cannot Fit Them on the Balcony
Growing Money Tree from Seed: Seedlings Are Healthier
The Money Tree we usually grow is called Malabar Chestnut (Pachira aquatica). If you are a plant lover in southern China, especially Guangdong, you are in luck: just take a stroll in the park and pocket a few seeds to plant.
It is best to sow the seeds we collect as soon as possible, because the germination rate of old seeds drops greatly.
After receiving the seeds, first remove the fruit skin wrapped around them, then soak the seeds in clean water to speed up germination. Once the seed coat splits open to reveal white and a small sprout emerges, you can sow them!
Prepare loose, breathable soil, dot the seeds onto the soil surface, and cover with just a thin layer of soil. Water thoroughly, and they will sprout and emerge in 3~5 days.
After the seeds break through the soil, the cotyledons are wrinkled and ugly. This is normal. Once the true leaves grow out, it will be the Money Tree you know!
Money Tree Cuttings: Even Higher Survival Rate
Money Trees grown from seed have a swollen base, while those propagated from cuttings do not have a swollen base. They can also be braided, and the survival rate is very high.
Cuttings are usually taken in spring and autumn. Cut a robust branch about 15cm long, preferably a two-year-old one, keep the compound leaves at the top, insert it about 5cm into the soil, and water thoroughly.
After cutting, keep the room temperature at around 20~25°C and maintain high air humidity. If the temperature is low, you can cover with a layer of plastic film to keep it warm and moist.
If the environment is suitable, it will root in half a month.
Grow a Small Money Tree This Way for Glossy Green Leaves
1. Light
When we usually care for Money Trees, we should give them plenty of light. However, small Money Trees are still fairly shade-tolerant and can be displayed in a low-light spot for a while, but be sure to move them to a bright spot after about 1 month.
In addition, when caring for a small Money Tree, be sure to rotate the pot. Otherwise, the leaves on the side facing the sun will grow faster and stronger, and the branches and leaves will lean toward the sunlight.
2. Watering
When it comes to watering, you can say that during the growing season you need to ensure sufficient moisture, but waterlogging is a big taboo. So it is best to wait until the potting soil is dry before watering, which makes it less likely to become waterlogged and cause root rot.