Money Trees, or Pachira Aquatica, are native to Central America, flourishing in locations with high humidity. If you’re growing one indoors, you need to provide a similar environment if you want it to flourish.
Plant enthusiasts are attracted to this plant thanks to its attractive braided stem, glossy green leaves, and reputation for bringing good luck to the home according to Feng Shui principles.
Ideally, you need to water your money tree occasionally and deeply as this is the best way to mimic the natural rainfall that’s found in tropical regions where it grows naturally. The most important thing to remember is that the tree’s soil should be relatively dry before you water it.
If you’re not sure how to often to water your money tree, this beginner-friendly plant guide will help you keep it alive and well-rested.
A money tree, also known as a Pachira aquatica, is a popular houseplant known for its braided trunk and vibrant green leaves that are said to bring good luck and fortune However, despite their resilience, money trees are still susceptible to common houseplant problems like overwatering
Overwatering is one of the leading causes of indoor plant death and can quickly lead to root rot, pests, diseases, and overall decline. As a money tree owner, it’s critical to learn how to identify the signs of overwatering and treat the issue before it’s too late.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about diagnosing and fixing an overwatered money tree, including:
- What are the most common signs and symptoms?
- What causes overwatering in money trees?
- Step-by-step solutions and proper care techniques.
What Does an Overwatered Money Tree Look Like?
An overwatered money tree will show a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. In mild cases, you may notice
- Leaves turning pale, yellow, or brown
- Leaf wilting and drooping
- Leaf drop
- Fewer new leaves growing
If left unchecked, prolonged overwatering can lead to:
- Brown, mushy spots on leaves
- Moldy soil
- Foul odor from the pot
- Stunted growth
- Leaf loss
- Root rot
The most definitive way to diagnose overwatering is to check the soil moisture. If the soil is soggy and muddy several days after watering, stays wet for extended periods, or you can squeeze out excess water, your plant is getting too much.
Healthy money tree soil should be moist but not soaked You should be able to stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil and feel just a little dampness If it’s sopping wet, you need to back off on watering.
What Causes Overwatering in Money Trees?
There are a few key reasons why money trees end up with too much water:
Watering Too Frequently – Money trees prefer infrequent, deep watering. Watering too often doesn’t allow the soil to dry out properly in between.
Poor Drainage – Money trees need pots with drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Using a pot without holes or with a misfitting saucer can trap water.
Heavy-Handed Watering – Applying too much water at once can overwhelm the plant. Always water gently and stop once you see it draining from the bottom.
Excess Humidity – High humidity causes soil to dry out slower. Monitor moisture carefully if your money tree is in a steamy bathroom or kitchen.
Compacted Soil – Soil that is too dense prevents proper drainage. Add amendments like perlite or bark to improve drainage.
Small Pot Size – Small pots retain moisture longer than larger ones. Upsize pots as the tree grows to allow more room for water to drain.
Seasonal Changes – Money trees need less frequent watering in fall and winter when growth slows. Don’t stick to the same schedule year-round.
How to Fix an Overwatered Money Tree
If you catch overwatering early, the good news is money trees can make a full recovery. Here are the steps to revive an overloved, droopy tree:
1. Stop watering immediately – Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. This may take 1-2 weeks.
2. Improve drainage – Remove excess water from the saucer and use a chopstick to poke drainage holes in the soil.
3. Increase air circulation – Move to a breezy spot to speed up drying. Consider using a fan to keep air moving.
4. Remove from soil & inspect roots – Gently remove from the pot and shake off excess mud. Check for black, mushy roots which indicate root rot. Trim off any dead roots.
5. Replant in fresh, dry soil – Repot in a free-draining soil mix, adding extra perlite if needed. Water sparingly for 1-2 weeks while it recovers.
6. Find a sunny spot – Place in a warm, sunny area to facilitate drying out of the soil and plant. Avoid direct light which can scorch leaves.
7. Hold off fertilizing – Don’t fertilize until the plant is actively growing new leaves again. Fertilizing stresses weak plants further.
8. Prune damaged foliage – Remove dead or dying leaves which waste the plant’s energy. Sterilize pruners between each cut.
9. Treat disease if needed – For advanced cases, use a fungicide drench to kill root rot pathogens. Hydrogen peroxide also disinfects roots.
10. Adjust watering habits – Going forward, only water when the top few inches of soil are dry. Invest in a moisture meter to remove guesswork.
How to Properly Water Money Trees
Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to overwatering. Follow these watering best practices to keep your money tree happy:
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Water thoroughly then wait – Money trees prefer infrequent but deep watering. Allow the entire root zone to dry out before soaking again.
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Observe drainage – Water until it runs from the drainage holes at the bottom, then stop. Allow excess to drain fully from the saucer.
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Feel the soil – Check moisture at the roots before watering, not just the surface. The top 2 inches should be dry.
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Adjust for seasons – Back off on watering in fall and winter as growth slows. The plant uses less moisture when dormant.
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Use rain or distilled water – Tap water contains minerals that can build up. Rain or distilled is gentler for sensitive plants like money trees.
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Keep on a schedule – Mark your calendar as a reminder to check soil and water. Consistency prevents extremes.
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Water in the morning – Watering at night leaves moisture on leaves for extended periods, promoting disease.
With a little vigilance and proper care, an overwatered money tree can make a full comeback. Just remember to show restraint at the watering can and let those roots relax!
How to Fix an Overwatered Money Tree
Follow these clear steps to fix your overwatered money tree and help it bounce back to health:
- Gently remove the plant from its pot and brush off the soil.
- Examine the soil for wetness, odor or mold. If present, discard the soil and don’t reuse it.
- Inspect the roots for rot. Healthy roots should be firm and white, while rotting roots appear dark and mushy.
- If the roots are healthy and the soil is OK, place the plant back into its pot and allow it to dry out for a week or two. Create small holes in the soil to improve aeration and help moisture evaporate.
- If the roots of your overwatered money tree are rotting, remove them using clean, sharp scissors. Only keep the strong, firm and white roots.
- Prune any limp, wilted or discolored leaves to redirect the plant’s energy toward new growth.
- Repot the plant in a clean pot with drainage holes using fresh, dry soil. If reusing the same pot, clean it with hot water and mild soap first.
- Position the money tree in a location with ample indirect sunlight. Allow it to recover from the trimming and repotting, and avoid watering for at least a week.
How to Water a Money Tree
In this section, we’ll delve into the intricacies of watering your money tree for optimal growth and vitality. From understanding the plant’s watering needs to recognizing the signs of over and underwatering, we’ll help you discover the essential watering techniques that will ensure you master your money tree care skills.
- Prepare the water: Use room temperature water, allowing any chlorine to dissipate for a day.
- Assess soil moisture: Check the top 2-4 inches of the soil and if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
- Positioning: Place the money tree in a sink or basin to catch excess water.
- Watering technique: Pour water evenly over the soil until it starts draining from the bottom.
- Drain excess water: Allow the excess water to drain completely.
- Frequency: Repeat when the top inch of soil feels dry again, typically every few weeks.
Remember, that consistency is key to maintaining a healthy moisture balance for your money tree.
5 Money tree plant Problems & Solutions
FAQ
How do you fix an overwatered money tree?
I use 1 cup peroxide to 3 cups water and put in a spray bottle and spray roots until they are saturated. I spray the roots and let sit for at least 30 mins remove rotten roots, and then rinse off. Let dry for at least an hour and repot in fresh soil. Keep it out of the sun for a bit after and try and avoid the leaves!
What does a money tree look like when it needs water?
4. Curling Leaves. If you notice leaves curling or wrinkling, not just drooping, you know it’s time to water your Money Tree.
How often should I water my money tree?
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When to water
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How to water
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Spring and summer
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Water more frequently when the plant is actively growing
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Fall and winter
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Water less frequently when the plant is dormant
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Hot, dry weather
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May need to water weekly
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Light
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Water more often if the plant is in higher light
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How do you know if your money tree has root rot?
You can tell if the money tree is suffering from root rot if the leaves begin to wilt, discolor, or drop, if you notice a rotting smell from the soil, or if the base of the stem is soft and mushy. If one of your money tree stems is dead, don’t worry! You can still save the other stems before they decline, too.
How do you know if a money tree is overwatered?
The appearance of your overwatered money tree will vary depending on the severity of the situation. In the early stages, your plant’s leaves will turn yellow, droop, and fall off untimely. If the overwatering has gone too long for root rot to set in, you may see brown, mushy spots with a yellow halo on the foliage and stem.
What happens if you overwater a money tree?
Your overwatered money tree will generally turn yellow in the lower leaves. If you continue overwatering, this will progress to widespread wilting and yellowing of the leaves. If that happens, your precious money tree may be in more trouble than you think because of root rot.
Are brown spots on money tree leaves a sign of overwatering?
Brown spots on the money tree leaves are a common sign of overwatering. Initially, you will notice small spots that eventually grow and can cover the whole leaf. There may be yellow outlines around the brown spots. These are not only signs of overwatering but also root rot. Even some fungal diseases can cause these brown spots.
How do you know if a money tree is dying?
The money tree will become lighter and more yellow. Wilting or curling leaves. Check for further signs to figure out what’s going on. Drooping, limp and falling leaves. If the leaves are weak and limp, it usually is due to overwatering. If you notice defoliation (leaves falling off), it can be because of too much or too little water.
How do you repot an overwatered money tree?
If the roots of your overwatered money tree are rotting, remove them using clean, sharp scissors. Only keep the strong, firm and white roots. Prune any limp, wilted or discolored leaves to redirect the plant’s energy toward new growth. Repot the plant in a clean pot with drainage holesusing fresh, dry soil.
Why does my money tree shrivel?
You may notice that your overwatered money tree will shrivel. This is because too much water causes edema, widespread tissue damage, and bursting of the leaves. For this reason, the leaves and stem will feel soft and mushy to the touch. This is often accompanied by limb leaves that appear weak, yellowed, and wilted.