The money tree, or Pachira aquatica, is one of the most popular tropical houseplants known for its low-maintenance care needs and beautiful palm-shaped leaves. The tree has positive associations with Feng Shui as its believed to bring good fortune and wealth. However, the leaves of this hardy indoor plant may turn yellow, brown, or white or start curling and drooping if theres a problem.
As a dedicated houseplant parent, you may wonder, “Why are my money tree leaves turning yellow?” Money tree yellow leaves happen for many reasons, including overwatering, insufficient humidity, inconsistent temperature, and pest infestations. Luckily, if you identify the problem in time, restoring your plants health is possible.
Money trees are popular indoor plants known for their bright green leaves and their ability to supposedly bring good financial fortune. However money tree leaves that are curling downwards can be concerning. In this article we’ll explore the common causes for money tree leaves curling down and provide tips to help your plant recover.
What Causes Money Tree Leaves to Curl Downwards?
There are a few key reasons why the leaves on your money tree may be curling down or drooping. Here are some of the most common causes:
Underwatering
One of the most common issues that leads to curling leaves is underwatering. Money trees prefer consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. If the soil dries out too much between waterings, the leaves will start to droop and curl in an effort to prevent water loss.
To fix an underwatering issue, give your money tree a thorough soaking and allow the excess water to drain out. Then, check the soil more frequently and water when the top inch becomes dry. The leaves should perk back up within a few days.
Overwatering
While underwatering causes curling leaves, overwatering can too! If the soil stays soggy for too long, the roots can start to rot leading to drooping leaves. Check that your money tree’s soil is well-draining and that you allow it to dry out moderately between waterings.
If you suspect overwatering, allow the plant to dry out more before watering again. You may need to repot into fresh, dry soil if rot has set in.
Low Humidity
Money trees prefer 40-60% relative humidity. In dry indoor environments, the leaves may start to curl and brown around the edges as the plant loses moisture.
Use a humidifier nearby or place the pot on a pebble tray to increase humidity. Misting the leaves regularly can help as well.
Sunburn
If the leaves are curling down with yellow or brown crispy patches, the money tree may be getting too much direct sunlight.
Place the plant in bright, indirect light instead. Filtered sunlight through a sheer curtain is ideal. If the damage is severe, you may need to prune back affected leaves.
Drafts
Exposure to frequent cold drafts from vents, open doors, or windows can shock a money tree and cause leaves to droop and curl.
Make sure to keep your money tree in a stable environment away from drafts. Move it to a warmer area if needed.
Pests
Spider mites, mealybugs, and other sucking pests can infest money trees and cause leaves to distort and curl as the pests drain nutrients.
Inspect leaves closely and treat any pests you find immediately. Insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oils can help clear infestations. Isolate affected plants to prevent spread.
Root Bound
If the money tree’s container is too small, the roots can become restricted. This prevents proper water and nutrient uptake.
Repot money trees into the next sized pot every 2-3 years. Use a container with drainage holes and potting mix amended with perlite or bark to prevent compacting.
Caring for a Money Tree with Curling Leaves
Once you’ve diagnosed and addressed the cause of curling leaves, a bit of extra care can help your money tree recover. Here are some tips:
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Keep the plant out of direct sunlight until new growth emerges.
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Water carefully – moisten the soil without saturating it.
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Wash leaves gently with water to remove any dust or residue.
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Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to nourish the plant.
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Prune back any severely damaged leaves or stems.
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Monitor for pests which may take advantage of the plant’s stressed state.
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Be patient! It can take weeks for a money tree to perk back up again.
With some time and TLC, your money tree should make a full recovery. Pay close attention to proper watering, humidity, and pest prevention to keep those beautiful leaves healthy and happy. Don’t let a few curled leaves scare you – just focus on diagnosing the problem and giving your plant some extra care until it bounces back.
Q: Should I cut dying leaves off my money tree?
A: Yes. Removing dying or yellow leaves helps redirect the plants energy to healthy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors to trim leaves at the base and prune them regularly to promote overall plant vitality.
Why Are My Money Tree Leaves Turning Yellow?
Your money tree leaves are turning yellow due to various reasons. However, if you know what signs to look for, then narrowing down the cause and fixing the issue is easy. Here are six common reasons for money tree leaves turning yellow:
- Overwatering – Overwatering causes root rot, resulting in yellowing leaves.
- Insufficient humidity – Arid conditions can cause your plants leaves to get crispy brown edges before wilting and dropping off.
- Excessive light – Long-term exposure to extreme, direct light can cause money tree yellowing leaves due to sunburn.
- Inconsistent temperature – Placing your money tree plant in areas with fluctuating temperatures, swinging between extremes, can trigger leaf yellowing.
- Pest infestation – Houseplant pests such as mealybugs and spider mites feed on the sap from the plant parts, causing the yellowing leaves.
- Normal plant growth – Occasional money tree leaf yellowing is entirely normal. As your plant grows, older leaves naturally yellow, die, and drop off.
- Adjust your watering routine to allow the top inch of soil to dry before rewatering;
- Increase humidity around your money tree by misting its leaves regularly, placing a humidifier nearby, or setting it on a tray with water and pebbles;
- Move your money tree to a location with filtered or indirect sunlight to protect it from sunburn;
- Maintain a stable temperature range of 65-850F;
- Use natural remedies like insecticidal soap or neem oil to address pest issues;
5 Money tree plant Problems & Solutions
FAQ
How to fix droopy leaves on a Money Tree?
Adjusting Watering Practices
Overwatering is a common cause of drooping leaves. It’s like giving your plant a non-stop water balloon fight – it’s fun for a while, but eventually, the plant’s just soggy and miserable. To fix this, let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
What does overwatering a Money Tree look like?
What does an overwatered Money Tree look like? Typically, those vibrant leaf colors you know and love will suddenly look brown and sad.
How do I fix my plant leaves curling down?
The soil is depleted of nutrients and your plant is hungry. Curling leaves aren’t the only symptom. Growth slows down, your shrub stops growing and doesn’t produce new limbs. To remedy this, give your plant some fresh potting soil!
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