How Much Water Does Your Money Plant Need?

Money plants, also known as Pachira aquatica or Malabar chestnut, are popular houseplants thanks to their unique trunk braids and ornamental values. While they are generally easy to care for, the amount of water they need can sometimes be tricky to gauge. In this article, we will explore how much water your money plant needs to thrive and grow.

1. Watering Frequency

The frequency of watering your money plant depends on several factors, such as the size of the pot, the size of the plant, the humidity of the room, and the amount of light it receives. In general, it is recommended to water your money plant once a week during the growing season, which is spring and summer, and once every two weeks in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

However, it's important to monitor the soil's moisture level and adjust the watering schedule accordingly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow.

2. Watering Amount

When watering your money plant, it's essential to ensure the water reaches the entire root zone. The general rule of thumb is to water until the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. The easiest way to check if the plant needs water is to stick your finger or a wooden chopstick into the soil about an inch deep.

If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still moist, wait a few more days before checking again. As with watering frequency, the amount of water your money plant needs depends on several factors such as pot size, soil type, and ambient humidity.

3. Watering Techniques

When watering your money plant, there are different techniques you can use. One common way is to pour water directly onto the soil until it drains out from the drainage holes at the bottom. This ensures that the water reaches the root zone and helps flush out any salt buildup in the soil.

Another technique is to immerse the entire pot in a bucket of water for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the soil to absorb water from all directions and can be especially useful for large pots or plants that are difficult to move around.

4. Water Quality

The water quality is also an important factor to consider when watering your money plant. Generally, tap water is safe to use, but if your water is heavily chlorinated or has a high mineral content, it might be beneficial to use filtered or distilled water instead.

If you're using tap water, let it sit for a few hours before watering your money plant. This allows the chlorine to dissipate and the water to reach room temperature.

Conclusion

Overall, the amount of water your money plant needs depends on several factors, and it's important to monitor the soil's moisture level and adjust the watering schedule accordingly. By following best practices of watering frequency, watering amount, watering techniques, and water quality, your money plant is sure to thrive and grow into a beautiful houseplant that adds a touch of tropical vibe to your home.