How to Care for a Pachira Tree

Money may not grow on trees, but one tree may bring you fortune. The pachira, or money tree (Pachira aquatica), is said to bring luck to its owner. This tree has its origin in Central and South America, where it grows wild on wetlands and riverbanks. You can grow the pachira tree either as an indoor potted plant or as a landscaping tree in in warmer climates.

Things You'll Need

• Pot with drainage holes in the bottom
• Potting soil
• Organic compost
• Tray, large enough to hold the pot
• Pebbles
• Fertilizer
• Garden shears
• Thermometer

Instructions

1. Plant the pachira tree in a pot containing well-draining sandy soil. The kind of soil used for growing cacti would work well. Mix in organic compost. Use 2 parts soil and 1 part compost. Place a layer of soil on the bottom of the pot and the pachira's roots in the middle.

2. Place the pot on a tray of pebbles covered in water. This will raise the humidity levels around the plant, which is good for it.

3. Place the pot in a location that will get at least 6 to 8 hours of indirect sunlight per day. Direct sunlight or too much heat will cause the leaves to die. If you are growing your pachira tree indoors, use fluorescent lighting. Pachira trees do well with fluorescent lights.

4. Water the plant. Keep adding water until it runs out the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This will fully saturate the soil.

5. Feed the plant approximately every four weeks. Use a well-balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, but cut down to about half strength. Over-fertilizing the pachira will burn it.

6. Ensure that room temperature remains between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. Never permit temperatures around your pachira to drop below the low 30s.

7. Trim any damaged, dead or diseased leaves away from the plant. Dust the pachira tree regularly to prevent it from catching fungal infections from airborne sources.

8. Water the pachira tree whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry. Water it a little less often during the winter.

References

• Gardino Nursery: Pachira Aquatica - Fortune Tree
• Guide to Houseplants: Money Tree Plant Care