3 Things to Avoid When Growing Money Trees to Keep Them Lush and Lucky

The Money Tree, or *Pachira aquatica*, is an ideal houseplant with its vibrant green foliage that stays lush all year round. In Feng Shui, this plant is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, thus making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to attract wealth and abundance. The unique feature of this plant is its foliage, which resembles ancient coins, hence the name Money Tree.

To ensure your Money Tree thrives and brings you abundance, there are three key things to avoid:

**1. Overwatering:** Money Trees do not like soggy soil and can suffer from root rot if left sitting in water for extended periods. This can lead to leaf damage and even death. Therefore, it is crucial to allow the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in an indoor setting where natural light and ventilation are less abundant. For indoor plants, water once every 10-20 days, depending on soil moisture. During winter, when temperatures drop, reduce watering to prevent overwatering.

**2. Cold Temperatures:** Money Trees thrive in warm and dry conditions and are sensitive to cold, particularly in autumn and winter. If exposed to freezing temperatures, the leaves may freeze and suffer damage. When temperatures dip below 10°C (50°F), take measures to insulate your plant, such as using a plastic bag to cover it or employing other cold protection methods. Maintaining temperatures above 10°C is essential for the plant’s health during winter.

**3. Compacted Soil:** If the soil in the pot becomes too hard or lacks nutrients, the Money Tree’s growth will slow, and it won’t produce new branches. To remedy this, loosen the soil and add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve drainage and nutrient content. During the active growing seasons of spring and autumn, fertilize your plant once or twice a week with NPK or other fertilizers. Be careful not to apply fertilizer directly to the roots or stem, and only use a small amount each time.

By avoiding these three pitfalls and providing your Money Tree with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, it will flourish, producing new branches and deep green, glossy leaves. This lush foliage, resembling a string of ancient coins, will not only enhance the beauty of your home but also symbolize the attraction of wealth and good fortune.