How to Grow a Money Tree So It Thrives: The Key Is Watering, Light, and Temperature

The money tree, botanically known as Pachira aquatica and also called Malabar chestnut, is an evergreen foliage plant in the family Malvaceae. Its stem is thick and swollen, and its palmately compound leaves spread out in fresh green, staying evergreen all year round. It is often grown as a potted plant and placed in living rooms, shops, and offices; its auspicious name and fine ornamental look make it a very popular indoor green plant.

When caring for a money tree, watering is the most critical part. Its thick stem can store a good deal of water, and it is naturally drought-tolerant and afraid of waterlogging, so constantly moist potting soil easily causes root rot. In daily care, you can follow the principle of not watering until the soil is dry, and watering thoroughly when you do; wait until the surface of the potting soil turns pale and dry before adding water. In winter, when temperatures are low, water even less and keep the potting soil on the dry side.

As for light, the money tree likes a bright environment and can also tolerate partial shade, so it suits a spot by a window with plenty of diffused light or a bright living room. In summer, avoid strong direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; if it is kept in too dark a corner for a long time, the leaf color tends to fade and the branches become leggy. It likes warmth, so pay attention to keeping it warm in winter, avoid cold drafts blowing directly on it, and keep the indoor air circulating.

The soil should be a loose, airy, well-draining medium, which can be made by mixing leaf mold with river sand or perlite. During the growing season, apply light fertilizer frequently, mainly a dilute compound fertilizer, and avoid strong fertilizer that burns the roots. If the leaves turn yellow, it is usually related to overwatering, insufficient light, or poor ventilation, so check and adjust promptly; once root rot occurs, remove the plant from its pot, cut away the rotted roots, disinfect and let them dry, then replace the soil and replant.