Comprehensive Guide for Money Plant Maintenance: Tips and Tricks for a Flourishing Plant
Money plants, also known as Epipremnum aureum, Pothos, or Devil's Ivy, are popular houseplants known for their heart-shaped leaves and easy-to-care-for nature. Originating from the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, these versatile plants can thrive in a variety of environments, making them perfect for novice gardeners or those with busy schedules.
Watering
To keep a money plant looking its best, water it when the top 1-2 inches of soil becomes dry, typically every 7-10 days. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Soil Requirements
Money plants grow best in well-draining, peat-based potting mix. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sand or a commercial potting mix with peat moss, perlite, and pine bark will provide the ideal balance. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
Light Conditions
Place the plant in bright, indirect light. It tolerates low light (even fluorescent light) but will grow more vigorously in brighter indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Variegated varieties may require more light to maintain their coloration.
Propagation
Propagate via stem cuttings with at least 3-4 leaves and one node. Cut below the node and place the cutting in water (with leaves above water) or moist soil. Roots develop in 1-2 weeks, and water-rooted cuttings can be transplanted to soil once roots reach 2-3 inches. Change water in propagation every 7-10 days and use filtered or RO water to avoid chlorine damage.
Pruning
Regularly trim long vines to encourage bushier, fuller growth. Pruning also promotes new shoots and helps maintain desirable shape and size.
Common Issues
Overwatering leading to root rot is the most common problem. Yellowing leaves can indicate excessive water or low light. Drooping leaves usually signal underwatering. Avoid water with chlorine for propagation. Provide moderate humidity (40-60%) for optimal health.
Additional Tips
- Fertilize a money plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Repot every 1.5 to 2 years to provide fresh soil and room for growth, preferably in ceramic or terracotta pots for better breathability.
- Remove the lower leaves, leaving at least two on the cutting.
- Provide 12-14 hours of light per day for the artificial light source.
- Regularly trim and train a money plant to maintain its shape.
- Money plants thrive in bright, indirect light, with a north- or east-facing window being ideal.
- After 2-3 weeks, new roots should form from the node.
Common problems affecting money plants include pests, root rot, yellowing leaves, leaf drop, and brown leaf tips. By following these best practices, you can ensure a healthy, thriving money plant in your home or office.
[1] The Spruce, How to Care for a Money Tree
[2] Gardenerdy, How to Propagate a Money Tree
- For a vibrant money plant, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer.
- Regularly care for your money plant by pruning long vines to encourage bushy, full growth and maintain the desired shape and size.
- When propagating a money plant, use a commercial potting mix with peat moss, perlite, and pine bark, or a combination of garden soil, compost, and sand for optimal growth.
- To grow a money plant, place it in a north- or east-facing window to ensure it receives bright, indirect light, but avoid direct sunlight that can scorch the leaves.
- To promote the growth of new roots when propagating a money plant via stem cuttings, use filtered or RO water and change it every 7-10 days to avoid chlorine damage.
