FREE 30-DAY MEMBERS GUARANTEE Register here

FREE DELIVERY ON ORDER FROM 75€

GET UP TO 35% ON BUNDLES

Plant Care Guide

Pachira

About Pachira: Pachira aquatica, commonly referred to as the Money Tree, is a tropical plant native to Central and South America. Known for its braided trunk and lush green leaves, the Money Tree is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It’s a popular indoor plant due to its resilience, attractive appearance, and minimal care requirements.

Watering Needs
  • Frequency: Water when the top 2-5 cm (1-2 inches) of soil feels dry. Typically, this means watering every 1-2 weeks, depending on the season and environment.
  • Water Type: Use room-temperature tap water or filtered water.
  • Tips: Overwatering is a common problem for Pachira. Ensure the pot has proper drainage, and never let the plant sit in standing water.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: Reduce watering in winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Sunlight Requirements
  • Light Needs: Pachira thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct morning sunlight but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays.
  • Tolerance: The plant can survive in medium to low light, but growth will be slower, and leaves may become sparse.
  • Warning Signs: Yellowing or scorched leaves indicate too much direct light, while leggy growth suggests insufficient light.

Humidity & Temperature
  • Humidity: Pachira prefers moderate to high humidity (50-70%). Use a humidifier, mist the leaves occasionally, or place the plant near a pebble tray if the air is dry.
  • Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 18°C–27°C (65°F–80°F). Avoid exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
  • Tips: Keep the plant away from cold drafts, heaters, and air conditioners, which can cause leaf drop.

Soil & Potting
  • Soil Type: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well.
  • Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot. Spring is the ideal time for repotting.
  • Best Pot: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilization
  • When to Fertilize: Feed Pachira every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
  • Winter Feeding: Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
  • Signs of Over-Fertilization: Yellow or brown leaf tips can indicate too much fertilizer. Flush the soil with water if necessary.

Pruning & Maintenance
  • Pruning: Trim back leggy or overgrown stems to maintain the plant’s shape. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves as needed.
  • Leaf Cleaning: Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
  • Pest Prevention: Pachira is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally attract mealybugs, spider mites, or scale. Treat infestations promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Common Problems & Solutions
  • Yellow Leaves: Often caused by overwatering or exposure to direct sunlight. Adjust watering habits and move the plant to a spot with indirect light.
  • Brown Leaf Edges: This can result from low humidity, underwatering, or fertilizer burn. Increase humidity and ensure consistent care.
  • Drooping Leaves: Usually a sign of underwatering. Water the plant, and it should recover within a day or two.

Toxicity & Pet Safety
  • Non-Toxic: Pachira is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for households with animals and children.

Growth & Repotting
  • Growth Rate: Pachira grows moderately fast under ideal conditions, reaching heights of 1.2–2.4 meters (4–8 feet) indoors.
  • Pot Size: When repotting, use a pot slightly larger than the current one to allow for growth while avoiding overwatering issues.

Propagation
  • Best Methods: Propagate Pachira through stem cuttings.
  • How to Propagate:
  1. Take a 10-15 cm (4-6 inch) cutting with a few nodes and healthy leaves.
  2. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in moist soil or place it in water.
  3. Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity. Roots should develop within 3-4 weeks.
  • Tips: Propagation is easiest during spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.

Plant Attributes & Benefits
  • Decorative Appeal: Pachira’s braided trunk and lush foliage make it a beautiful focal point in any room or office.
  • Symbolic Meaning: Known as the Money Tree, Pachira is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune in many cultures, often gifted to celebrate new beginnings.

Care Difficulty Level
  • Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate. Pachira is low-maintenance and forgiving, making it suitable for plant owners of all experience levels.
  • Summary: A versatile and attractive plant that thrives with minimal care and adds a touch of greenery and good luck to any space.

Seasonal Care Tips
  • Winter: Reduce watering and keep the plant in a warm spot away from cold drafts or windows.
  • Summer: Increase watering slightly and mist occasionally to maintain humidity in dry environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why are my Pachira’s leaves turning yellow?
    Yellowing leaves are often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again.
  • Can Pachira grow outdoors?
    Yes, in warm, tropical climates, Pachira can grow outdoors in partial shade. Protect it from frost and harsh sunlight.
  • How do I encourage my Pachira to grow taller?
    Provide bright, indirect light, consistent watering, and occasional feeding during the growing season.
Kostenlose Lieferung Ab 75€
Garantie 30 Tage
Kundensupport 24/7