A Detailed Guide to Growing and Caring for the Money Tree

The money tree has an auspicious name, carrying the meaning of wealth and good fortune. Placed indoors, it is believed to bring good luck, making it one of the more popular potted plants. So let us introduce the money tree's growing methods and precautions:

I. Introduction to the money tree

1. Other names for the money tree

Malabar chestnut, provision tree, Guiana chestnut, saba nut

2. Habits of the money tree

The money tree is a perennial evergreen shrub that likes warm, humid, sunny or slightly shaded environments. Its optimum growing temperature is 20°C to 30°C. The hot, humid summer season is very favorable for the money tree's growth and is also its fastest growing period, so during this stage fertilizer and water management should be strengthened to keep it growing robustly.

In winter, the temperature must not fall below 5°C, and it is best kept at 18°C to 20°C. It dislikes cold, damp conditions; in a humid environment, the leaves very easily develop ulcer-like frost spots, which detracts from its ornamental value.

Potted money trees are relatively simple to care for. Generally, use loose garden soil or peat soil, leaf mold, and coarse sand, with a small amount of compound fertilizer or chicken manure as a base fertilizer and growing medium.

3. Uses of the money tree

The money tree can beautify the home. The money tree is an evergreen tree with large flowers and lobed petals; the flowers come in red, white or pale yellow, and the colors are vivid. A plant with green leaves is a treat for the eyes, and with flowers it is a fine choice for appreciation. Placing it at home undoubtedly adds a touch of charm to the decor.

The money tree is especially good at purifying indoor air. Even under weak light or high carbon dioxide concentrations, the money tree can carry out photosynthesis efficiently, effectively eliminating carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide pollution in the air. In addition, the money tree has strong transpiration, which can effectively regulate indoor temperature and humidity, and it can also resist harmful gases produced by cigarettes. If the money tree is combined with Buddhist pine, the effect will be even better - truly a perfect pairing, unmatched in the world.

II. How to grow the money tree

1. Light

It likes sunlight and does not like very dark and damp environments, so it should be placed where sunlight can reach it. There is also a technique to how the leaves are positioned; normally the leaves should face the sunlight so that they do not become twisted and each leaf can spread out. But exposure to blazing sun must also be avoided, as it will cause the plant to wither and die.

2. Watering

Too little water will stop its growth, while too much water will cause waterlogging and rot its roots, so watering must be done at fixed times and in fixed amounts. Basically, watering should be carried out once every day. In winter, the interval should be five to seven days. Besides normal watering, every three to five days water should be sprinkled on the leaves; a spray bottle works better. Watering is indispensable, as it makes the leaves grow more beautiful.

3. Fertilizing

This is a fertilizer-loving plant, so fertilizing is a must when growing it. Repotting should be done once a year; when repotting, one third of the soil should be fertile soil. For the fertile soil, collected leaf mold can be used, then mixed with ordinary soil and soybean cake residue - such soil benefits it greatly. There are also requirements for the fertilizer: it must be fully decomposed, otherwise it will burn the leaves. During its growing season, fertilize twice a month. Phosphate fertilizer and potassium fertilizer should be used in a balanced way to keep it growing healthily.

4. Temperature and humidity

To grow it well, pay attention to temperature and humidity. The environment it prefers is warm, and of course it also needs to be kept moist. If the temperature is low or it is especially dry, the leaves will turn yellow and leaf drop may occur, which is extremely unattractive and can easily cause the money tree's death. The place it is best suited to requires a temperature above 15°C, so be sure to meet this requirement.

III. Precautions for growing the money tree

1. Braiding: During the money tree's seedling stage, three to five plants can be put in one pot, and their stems can be braided into different shapes. After braiding, the shape is unique, with distinct, well-arranged layers of branches and leaves, which enhances its ornamental value.

2. Pruning and repotting: The money tree is generally pruned once a year, often together with repotting. Replace the old potting soil and switch to a slightly larger pot, placing base fertilizer at the bottom of the pot, accounting for one third of the potting soil. Prune plants with a loose, sprawling shape, cutting away weak branches and withered leaves, then replant them in the soil.

3. Pests and diseases: The main harm is from diseases and pests such as aphids and scale insects. During the growing season, they mostly occur on the leaves or leaf stalks. This is caused by the relatively warm temperature but poor ventilation when grown indoors. If pests or diseases are found, they can be washed off with water or removed by hand with a brush.

4. Soil: The money tree has relatively high soil requirements. It likes loose, fertile, well-drained, breathable acidic soil, and dislikes alkaline or heavily clayey soil.