Hello everyone, I just bought a nice little Pachira Aquatica or "Money Tree". I'm completely new to taking care of a plant. I've done alittle reading about it, I could use some tips or instructions from some pro's. The man I bought it from just told me to water it 2 times a week on monday and friday with 2oz of water. Is that all I need to do to take care of it? I bought it several days ago, when friday rolled around I watered it like I was instructed to do so and today on saturday I checked on it and the bigger leaf had a couple brown tips and that is where I began to worry and decided to do alittle research myself. Upon googling I couldn't find anything for beginners where there would be some general instructions to taking care of this plant. I'd really appreciate any help. BTW, the plant is indoors mostly and temperature is usually about 60-70 degrees with the A/C on. Is there anything special I need to do with this plant? Keep in mind I'm a complete newb when it comes to this stuff. I've provided a couple pictures, one of the plant and one shot underneath where you can kind of see the roots?
Don't over-water it.. Could also be that it's just too cool and dry with aircon on, what's the environment like outside? I'm in Thailand myself and these things typically grow outside in fairly warm and humid conditions. (though I understand this plant isn't overly fussy about its environment)
It is a "money" tree in the same way bamboo/dracaena can be "lucky": Money for those Lucky enough to sell the stuff to folks credulous enough to believe in that sorta thing. So yeah, Pachira aquatica DOES make change: change in the financial situations of buyer and seller.
lol, I got it for $10 from a walk-in to my store. He had some bonsai's too but I didn't want to get into it before I knew how to take care of them so I just got this one. So it likes humidity, a room with A/C isn't the best environment then. I live in Los Angeles, California so it's pretty hot outside even now that winter is coming in. Would it be better to keep it by a window or even take it home and keep it in the balcony outside? Maybe somewhere in indirect sunlight? I just read that it's a good idea to have the soil dry between watering, is this good advice to take? Also should I repot or would it be ok in the small pot it's in for its size? I plan to keep it this size. Thx for any advice.
Actually, a money plant IS a type of bonsai. ---Yes, since it is native to swamp lands of S. America, I think that the balcony idea is a good one. As with many plants, bright indirect sunlight is best. I also think that there's something about the air movement outdoors that has a beneficial effect. --Yes, do let it dry out between waterings---just don't let it go too long and start getting crispy leaves. As hantms said above, it doesn't like being overwatered. As long as it isn't horribly pot-bound and the soil quality is OK, you should be good for a while pot-wise. Pachira is thought by followers of feng shui to be a bringer of good luck due to its 5-lobed leaves. If you find one that is 7-lobed...look out! Laissez les bon temps rouler!
What does a New World tropical shrub have to do with Feng Shui anyway? Karma has dibs over Feng Shui every time. Just ask Earl Hickey. Heard it makes for great greenery in a Warren buffet!!!
