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“Transform Your Money Tree: The Ultimate Guide to Lush, Vibrant Foliage”

11 September, 2024

The money tree, also known as the jade plant or money plant, is a popular houseplant in many homes. This is due to its easy care, air-purifying abilities, and symbolic meaning in feng shui. With a name that literally translates to “money,” the money tree is believed to attract wealth, luck, and prosperity while warding off bad luck.

Despite its reputation for being low-maintenance and easy to grow, some money trees may develop thin leaves and weak branches over time. To give your plant a boost, you can use a special “tonic” as fertilizer.

Using Fermented Soybean Residue as Fertilizer

Not many people know that fermented soybean residue is a potent source of nitrogen and potassium, essential nutrients for plant growth. The phytic acid in this residue also promotes lush, shiny leaves. After making soy milk or buying tofu, don’t discard the soybean residue—use it to feed your money tree! If you don’t have access to soybean residue, you can substitute tofu instead.

However, avoid applying the soybean residue directly to your money tree, as it may cause root rot or burning. Instead, place the residue in a closed container, add a small amount of water, and let it ferment. Only fill the container with water up to 80% to prevent overflow during fermentation. It’s also a good idea to add some chopped citrus peels (grapefruit, orange, or lemon) to reduce the unpleasant odor that may occur during the fermentation process.

Fermented Soybean Residue: A Natural Plant Fertilizer

Keep the container in a cool, well-ventilated area with ample sunlight. After 2-3 months, the soybean residue will have fermented, and you can use it to fertilize your money tree. During the growth period, dilute the fermented residue with water at a ratio of 1:10 or 1:20, and water your plant twice a month. This will encourage new growth and leaf development.

Tips for Caring for Your Money Tree

– Since the money tree has fleshy roots, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water just enough to moisten the surface of the soil. On hot days, mist the leaves and surrounding air to increase humidity, promoting healthy, shiny leaves.

– Money trees thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to place your plant in a well-ventilated area with diffused light.

Frequently asked questions

Provide adequate sunlight, water regularly, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer, ensure good drainage, maintain humidity, prune regularly, and protect from pests and diseases.

If the leaves are leggy and the stem is stretched out, your Money Tree likely needs more light. Move it to a brighter location or provide artificial light.

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure your pot has drainage holes and empty any excess water from the saucer.

A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) is ideal. Apply a diluted solution every two weeks during the growing season.

Group your Money Tree with other plants, place it on a tray of pebbles and water, or use a humidifier. Avoid placing it near heat sources such as vents or radiators.

Prune your Money Tree to shape it and remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node to promote new growth.

Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of pests or diseases. Treat infestations early with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or by quarantining the plant. Ensure good air circulation and don’t overwater to prevent common issues.