Money Tree Care Instructions
Thank you for choosing Joey’s Houseplants! Your support is greatly appreciated. Enjoy your new Money Tree!
Your Money Tree may show a little stress after shipping. Unbox it promptly, place it in bright, indirect light, and give it time to adjust before moving or repotting it. A few older leaves may yellow or drop as it settles into its new home.
Quick Care Summary
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) grows best in bright, indirect light and a pot with good drainage. Let the soil dry out completely. Within 1–2 days after it is fully dry, soak the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer or decorative pot. Repeat this full-dry-then-soak cycle. Keep it warm and away from drafts. Rotate it occasionally for even growth.
Light
Give your Money Tree bright, indirect light. Gentle morning sun is usually fine, but strong afternoon sun can scorch its leaves. In low light, growth may slow and the soil may stay wet longer.
- South-facing window: Place the tree a few feet back or filter direct sun with a sheer curtain.
- East-facing window: Gentle morning sun and bright daylight make this an excellent spot.
- West-facing window: Move it back from the glass or filter intense afternoon sun.
- North-facing window: Keep it close to a large, unobstructed window; add a grow light if growth becomes sparse.
Turn the pot about a quarter turn every couple of weeks. Make major changes in light gradually.
Water
Check the soil after arrival. Do not water just because the plant was shipped. Let the soil dry out 100% before watering.
Check the soil in several places and as far down into the pot as you can with a finger or moisture meter. Once the soil is completely dry throughout the pot, wait no longer than 1–2 days, then give the plant a heavy, thorough watering. Pour slowly until the soil is fully soaked and excess water flows from the drainage holes. Empty any water left in the saucer or decorative pot.
Repeat the same process each time: allow the soil to dry out fully, then soak it fully within 1–2 days. Do not use a fixed calendar schedule. Light, temperature, season, and pot size determine how quickly the soil dries, so check it regularly and never leave the roots sitting in water.
Soil
Use a well-draining houseplant mix that holds some moisture without staying soggy. FoxFarm Happy Frog mixed with perlite and a little orchid bark is one option for better airflow and drainage. Always use a grow pot with drainage holes.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is optional. Good light and careful watering matter most. If you would like to encourage growth, feed about once a month in spring and summer while new leaves are forming. Jack’s Classic Houseplant Special is one option. Wait at least two weeks after delivery, start at half the label strength, and never exceed the package directions. Skip fertilizer when the tree is stressed or growth has slowed in fall and winter.
Repotting
Let the tree adjust to its new home before repotting. Repot when roots crowd the pot or grow heavily from the drainage holes, ideally during active growth. Choose a pot with drainage only 1–2 inches larger than the current pot. A much larger pot can hold too much moisture.
Until repotting is needed, you can place the plastic grow pot inside a decorative pot. Remove it to water and let it drain fully before putting it back.
Humidity & Temperature
Average household humidity is usually suitable, though moderate humidity can help the foliage look its best. Keep your Money Tree in warm, stable conditions, ideally around 65–80°F. Protect it from cold drafts, air-conditioning, and heating vents. Avoid temperatures below about 55°F.
It can spend warm months outside in bright shade after a gradual transition. Bring it indoors before cool nights arrive.
Pet Safety
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. Even a non-toxic plant can cause stomach upset if eaten, so discourage chewing and contact your veterinarian if your pet seems unwell. This guidance refers to Pachira aquatica; other plants called “money plant” may have different safety profiles.
Accessories
The following instructions apply if your order included a plant stand or water meter.
Plant Stand
Connect the stand pieces at their center points and place the stand on a stable, level surface. Open it wide, set the pot in the center while holding it securely, then gently bring the ends inward until they fit snugly around the pot.
Water Meter
Insert the probe into several areas of the soil without forcing it through roots. Check several areas and depths, and confirm with a finger if possible. When the soil is completely dry throughout the pot, give it a heavy, thorough watering within 1–2 days. Wipe the probe after use and do not leave it in the soil.
Questions?
If you have questions or concerns about your Money Tree, please contact support@joeyshouseplants.com. Thank you for supporting Joey’s Houseplants!
