How to Prune Pachira Aquatica Bonsai

The Pachira aquatica bonsai is a low-maintenance tree that rarely requires pruning.

The money tree bonsai (Pachira aquatica) is a tropical tree with a vigorous growth rate. It thrives best in moderately warm environments that have good air circulation and plenty of full sunlight. Similar to its full-sized counterpart, the Pachira aquatica bonsai requires very little maintenance and rarely requires pruning. Still, this bonsai responds well to timely pruning cuts that are made for shape and health.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Prune Pachira aquatica in the early spring, just before the onset of its growing season. Remove dead and dying foliage and stems with sharp, sterile shears. Trim away any suckers that have developed at the base of the tree.

2. Keep Pachira aquatica in a warm, sunny location that receives at least eight hours of bright sunlight a day, to promote healthy development. Select a location that is well-ventilated and free of cold drafts and extreme temperature variations.

3. Irrigate the money tree regularly to maintain a slightly moist, but not saturated, soil environment. Pour tepid water around the base of the money tree until the extra water drains from the container’s holes. Allow the bonsai’s soil to dry just slightly between each watering to prevent over-watering.

4. Inspect your money tree regularly for signs of adverse health. Look for wilted or drooping foliage, foliage spots, nibbled foliage and other signs of ailment. Use sharp, sterile shears to remove any ailing foliage and stems from the tree. Remove the ailing stems and foliage immediately to prevent the spread of potential disease and infection. Treat the Pachira aquatica with fungicidal or insecticide treatments, as needed. Follow the package’s instructions closely to prevent injury.

5. Repot the bonsai every two to three years as it becomes root-bound in its container. Inspect the roots thoroughly during the repotting process and trim back dead and wilted roots. Avoid trimming more than one-third of the root system to prevent stunting the money tree’s growth. Use your sharp, sterile pruning shears to make these cuts.

References

• Guide to Houseplants: Money Tree Plant Care
• Joe Bonsai: Braided Money Tree Bonsai Care
• California Rare Fruit Growers: Malabar Chestnut; 1996
• Floridata: Pachira Aquatica; July 2000

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish