Can Money Tree Plants Live Outside?

The money tree plant, also known as Pachira aquatica, is a popular indoor plant often used for decorative purposes due to its unique braided trunk and shiny green leaves. However, many people wonder if this plant can survive and thrive outside in their gardens or on their balconies. Let's explore the factors that affect a money tree's ability to live outdoors.

Climate and Temperature

One of the most crucial factors that determine if a money tree can live outside is the climate and temperature of the area. Money trees are originally from Central and South America, where they grow in warm and humid tropical forests. Therefore, they require a warm and humid environment to thrive. If you live in an area with cold or freezing winters, your money tree will likely not survive outside. On the other hand, if your region has a warm and humid climate, you can try to keep your money tree plant outside during the warmer months of the year

Light Exposure and Shade

Another crucial factor that affects a money tree's ability to survive outside is light exposure and shade. Money trees need indirect, bright light to grow and flourish. If you plan on keeping your money tree outside, make sure it receives sufficient indirect sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight can harm the plant and cause its leaves to turn yellow. Moreover, excessive exposure to wind and rain can also damage the money tree's delicate foliage. Therefore, it's essential to provide some shade for your money tree if you plan on keeping it outside.

Soil and Watering

Soil and watering are two more essential factors that affect a money tree's ability to survive outside. Money trees need well-draining soil that retains some moisture but doesn't become waterlogged. Therefore, it's best to plant your money tree in a potting mix of peat moss, sand and perlite that drains well. Additionally, it's important not to overwater the plant, as too much water can rot the roots and kill the tree. Similarly, in winter, it's essential to protect the plant from frost, as freezing temperatures can damage its roots and kill the money tree.

Conclusion

In conclusion, money tree plants can live outside if they receive sufficient warmth, humidity, indirect sunlight, and well-draining soil. However, if you plan on keeping your money tree outside, you need to take extra care to protect it from harsh weather conditions, excessive sunlight, and over-watering. If you don't have the right conditions outside, it's best to keep your money tree as an indoor plant, where you can provide it with the ideal growing conditions that will help it thrive.