Solutions for a Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) with a Root That Oozes Water When Squeezed

The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is very sensitive to watering, because its root system is underdeveloped and it is very prone to root rot from overwatering. Its trunk, however, usually grows very thick and stores a large amount of water; when the pot runs short of water and the plant suffers drought stress, it draws on the water stored in the trunk. That is also why the Money Tree is drought-tolerant, and a short period without water will not have any obvious adverse effect on its growth.

However, sometimes while caring for a Money Tree we notice the plant gradually becoming wilted, and it may even develop yellowing leaves and leaf drop. And when you squeeze its root with your hand, water actually comes out.

In fact, when the roots and trunk of a Money Tree ooze water when squeezed, the plant has most likely contracted root rot, or at the very least has developed fairly serious root rot. As for a Money Tree whose root releases water at a squeeze, the plant has now reached a critical moment of life and death, so we must treat it as early as possible, otherwise it is certain to die.

The treatment method is also very simple: saw off the root section that oozes water, until the lower part of the trunk feels fairly firm when squeezed and no sign of rot or damage inside the trunk can be seen on the cut surface. If the cut surface shows that the very heart of the trunk has been damaged, then even if squeezing no longer produces softness or water, you need to keep sawing upward until the cut surface shows no sign of damage at all.

At the same time, to reduce the strain on the tree, it is recommended to cut off all its branches and leaves, which also lightens the burden on the plant after replanting and is therefore more conducive to it rooting and surviving. Because once the plant loses its roots, its own branches and leaves evaporate water; after cutting them off, water loss is reduced, which helps it stay fresh and survive again.

Next, we also need to soak the trunk with the root sawn off in a potassium permanganate solution for 1 day to sterilize and disinfect it; it is best to soak both the upper and lower parts of the trunk. Then place it in a cool, ventilated place to let the wound dry, and at the same time apply some carbendazim to the upper wound, then seal it with wax to prevent water from being lost through the upper wound, which would cause the plant to lose too much water and thus affect its survival.

Finally, replant it in fresh potting soil; it is best to use moist soil for potting, so that after replanting you can avoid watering thoroughly while still having some moisture in the pot, which provides a humid growing environment for the plant to root and survive. Then place the pot in a cool, ventilated place to acclimate, and do not rush to water during this period; just ensure good ventilation and shade and mist to keep it moist, and wait for it to root and survive again.