The money plant, also known as pothos or jade plant (depending on the variety), is a popular choice for households and offices worldwide. Its reputation for attracting good luck, prosperity, and positive energy, combined with its forgiving nature, makes it a favorite for plant enthusiasts and beginners alike. But while the money plant is relatively low-maintenance, proper care is essential to keep it thriving. Here's everything you need to know to ensure your money plant stays lush and healthy.
1. Choose the Right Spot
Money plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a window with filtered sunlight or in a well-lit room. While they can tolerate low-light conditions, their growth may slow, and their leaves might lose some vibrancy. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate leaves.
If you’re growing your money plant outdoors, pick a partially shaded area to protect it from harsh sunlight.
2. Use the Proper Soil
Money plants prefer well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A mix of regular potting soil with sand or perlite works well.
You can also opt for store-bought potting mix designed for succulents or houseplants. Ensure the soil stays slightly moist but never soggy.
3. Water Wisely
Overwatering is a common mistake with money plants. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Check this by inserting your finger into the soil. During warmer months, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler seasons, watering once every 10-14 days might suffice.
Pro tip: Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
4. Maintain Optimal Humidity and Temperature
Money plants are tropical in origin, so they thrive in humid environments with temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C-29°C). If the air in your home is dry, especially during winter, consider misting the plant occasionally or placing a small humidifier nearby.
Alternatively, grouping it with other plants can create a micro-humid environment.
5. Feed It Regularly
Fertilize your money plant every 4-6 weeks during its growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Over-fertilizing can harm the plant, so less is more. Skip feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant enters a dormant phase.
6. Prune for Health and Shape
Regular pruning helps the money plant stay bushy and prevents it from becoming too leggy.
Trim yellowing or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy. You can also snip long stems if they’re growing unruly or out of shape. The cuttings can be propagated to grow new plants!
7. Propagate with Ease
Propagating a money plant is incredibly simple and satisfying. Cut a healthy stem with a few leaves and place it in a jar of water, ensuring at least one node (the small bumps along the stem) is submerged.
Roots will begin to form within a couple of weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, transfer the cutting to a pot with soil.
8. Watch Out for Pests
While money plants are generally resistant to pests, they can occasionally attract mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids.
Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for signs of pests. If you spot any, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use a mild insecticidal soap.
9. Rotate the Plant
To ensure even growth, rotate your money plant every couple of weeks. This allows all sides of the plant to receive adequate light, preventing uneven or lopsided growth.
10. Avoid Common Problems
- Yellowing Leaves: This often indicates overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust your watering routine and check the pot’s drainage.
- Wilting Leaves: Underwatering or exposure to direct sunlight can cause wilting. Ensure consistent watering and move the plant to a spot with indirect light.
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Leggy Growth: If your plant looks sparse, it may need more light. Move it closer to a brighter area, but avoid direct sunlight.
The Symbolic Charm of the Money Plant
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the money plant is believed to bring good fortune and positive vibes.
Feng Shui practitioners recommend placing it in the southeast corner of your home or office to attract prosperity. Whether or not you believe in its symbolic properties, caring for a money plant is undoubtedly a rewarding experience.
Final Thoughts
The money plant's elegance, easygoing nature, and touch of greenery make it a perfect companion for any home or office. With just a bit of care and attention, you can cultivate a plant that not only thrives but also becomes a stunning focal point in your space.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor gardening journey, the key is consistency and observation. As you care for your money plant, you’ll likely find that tending to it brings a sense of calm and connection to nature—a benefit that’s priceless.
If you’re looking for an easy way to kickstart your indoor gardening journey, check out the Growfriend All-In-One Seed Starter Kit.
It’s designed to make plant care straightforward and stress-free, providing everything you need to cultivate thriving greenery in your space.
We’d love to hear about your money plant journey!
Leave a comment below with your experiences, tips, or even photos of your plant—we’re always excited to connect with fellow plant enthusiasts. 🌿
Happy growing!