Pachira aquatica

This is my money tree, another gift from Christmas. Things were a little bit touch and go with this guy after I got him home, the cold shocked him and he started losing his leaves. The pot that he came in was terrible, no drainage holes and that terrible rock/glue stuff on top. I spend a solid evening getting all the rocks off and changing the pot out. I now have a lot of new growth and my money tree seems to be coming back with a vengeance. :) 

Pachira aquatica is commonly known as the Money Tree or Provision Tree. It is native to Central and South America and is considered a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. 

Care:

Water - every 7 to 10 days or when the top 3-4 inches of soil is dry. Keep the deeper layers moist but not wet. The tree needs more water when the air is dry and a daily light misting on the leaves helps provide the extra humidity they prefer. This tree thrives in humid areas such as bathrooms. Try to avoid water on the trunk as this can lead to stem rot.

Light - Indirect bright light. This tree will tolerate lower light conditions. Rotate the pot weekly to encourage even growth. (I have mine in my bedroom near a south facing window. I use a humidifier weekly for myself and my plants and everybody seems happy)

Repot -  it is suggested that the Money Tree should be repotted every two years with fresh soil.

Soil - Regular potting mix with peat moss or perlite will provide adequate water retention and drainage.

Food - either a quarterly dose of timed release fertilizer or a twice monthly dose of 1/2 strength water-soluble fertilizer will provide the proper nutrients it needs. (I prefer using the water soluble fertilizer for the plants that need a bit more attention because I have a tendency to forget when I have fertilized something. So I keep many plants on the same schedule.)

Issues - Yellowing or dropping leaves can indicate too much water. This tree can have issues with soggy soil and root rot. Brown or crispy leaves are symptoms of dry air or low light levels. 

Propagate - from cuttings or side shoots. Take stem cuttings in the spring, with at least two sets of leaf nodes attached. Dip the cut in rooting hormone powder and place in moist potting mix. It takes several weeks to root. (I have not tried to propagate my money tree yet, as I am waiting for it to be a bit more healthy and recovered from the move first. I am interested in seeing how easily it roots)

-Always remove damaged or yellow leaves. If your Money Tree is braided, continue the braiding as the tree grows, securing with twine at the top. Braiding must be done while growth is young and flexible. Remove side branches that might disrupt the braid. 

I hope this information is helpful, I will be posting more posts like this to go with all the plants I am currently growing. If any of this information is incorrect or needs clarifying, please let me know and I will be sure to correct it. 

--l