Why Is My Money Tree’s Leaves Curling Down? Causes and Solutions

The money tree, with its braided trunk and lush green leaves, is a popular and easy-to-care-for houseplant. But when those beautiful leaves start curling downward, it’s a sign of trouble

Leaves that curl down on a money tree are often a cry for help – the plant is trying to tell you that something is wrong with its growing conditions The good news is that identifying the cause and making a few simple fixes can get your money tree back to health

In this article, we’ll look at the most common reasons behind money tree leaves curling down, along with tips to revive your plant.

Main Causes of Downward Leaf Curling in Money Trees

There are 5 key culprits that can cause the leaves of a money tree to curl or droop downwards:

• Underwatering
• Overwatering
• Low humidity
• Temperature stress
• Excessive sunlight

Let’s explore each of these common causes in more detail.

Underwatering

Insufficient watering causes money tree leaves to shrivel and curl downward as the plant tries to conserve as much moisture as it can. Leaves will start cupping inward and getting dried out and crisp.

Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the potting mix. If the top few inches are completely dry, it’s time to give your plant a good, deep watering. Money trees like their soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but it should never get bone dry.

Overwatering

Too much water is just as problematic as too little. Excess moisture prevents the roots from getting enough oxygen. It also leads to root rot, which impairs the root system’s ability to take up water and nutrients.

With poor root health, the leaves respond by curling downward. Overwatered money trees may also have yellowing or browning leaves that eventually drop off.

Check for soggy, waterlogged soil and drain any excess water from the saucer. Allow the plant to dry out before watering again, and use fast-draining soil to prevent future issues.

Low Humidity

Money trees prefer warm, humid conditions. Low humidity causes the leaf edges and tips to dry out and curl downward.

This issue is common in winter when indoor air is drier. Increase humidity around your money tree by misting the leaves daily, using a pebble tray, or getting a humidifier.

Temperature Stress

Drastic shifts in temperature can stress a money tree and cause leaf curling. Hot, dry air from heating vents or direct sunlight will rapidly deplete moisture from the leaves, as will icy cold drafts.

Keep your money tree at a consistent temperature between 65-80°F. Move it away from air vents, radiators, drafty windows, and other sources of temperature fluctuations.

Excessive Sunlight

Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves of a money tree, causing them to yellow, dry out and curl downward. Always keep your money tree in bright, indirect light rather than direct sun.

If the sunlight is too intense, add a sheer curtain to help diffuse and filter the light. Rotate the plant periodically so all sides get even light exposure.

How to Fix a Money Tree with Curled Leaves

Once you’ve diagnosed the cause, fixing a money tree with curled leaves is fairly straightforward:

• For underwatering, give the plant a good, deep drink and water more frequently.

• For overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Repot in fast-draining soil if needed.

• Increase humidity for moisture-starved leaves curling from dry air.

• Move to a spot with a stable temperature between 65-80°F.

• Filter bright light or move out of direct sun if leaves are curling from too much light.

With consistent care tailored to the specific cause, your money tree’s leaves should soon perk back up. Prune any severely affected leaves. Then focus on prevention by meeting the plant’s water, light, temperature, and humidity needs before leaves curl again.

When to Worry About Curled Leaves

While some leaf curling is normal as the plant responds to minor stresses, take quick action if you notice:

• Severe and sudden leaf curling
• Multiple leaves rapidly curling
• Curling continuing despite corrections
• Curling spreading from old to new leaves
• Excess leaf drop accompanying the curled leaves

These are red flags that something is seriously wrong, likely a disease or pest issue. Aggressive treatment is needed to save the plant. If the money tree continues declining, it may be beyond recovery.

Keep Your Money Tree’s Leaves Looking Lush

With proper care, the money tree makes an easy and resilient houseplant with beautiful leaves. Just be attentive to its needs. If you notice any curled leaves, use that as a helpful cue to reassess your care and make adjustments. With some simple troubleshooting, you’ll get those leaves looking lush again.