The Money Plant (also known as Pothos) is everyone’s favourite, and for good reason. These popular houseplants bring positive energy and good fortune to your home, according to Feng Shui. Aside from their lucky charm reputation, they are also incredibly easy to grow and care for, making them an ideal plant for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
Money plants are hardy and can thrive under various conditions. They are low-maintenance, adaptable, and grow beautifully with just a little bit of care. Plus, they help purify the air, making them a great addition to any home or office space.
Whether you’re growing it indoors or outdoors, here’s a complete guide to help you care for your money plant.
Growing money plants indoors
Choosing the right spot
- Money plants thrive in indirect sunlight, making them perfect for indoor environments. Choose a spot where the plant gets bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while low light can slow down their growth.
- Tip: Place the plant near a window with filtered light (where the light is not falling directly) or in a well-lit corner.
- One of the reasons money plants are so easy to care for is that they don’t require frequent watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Tip: You may have to alter your watering schedule according to the seasons and the place you live. In summer, they may need more frequent watering, and in winter, less to avoid soggy soil.
- Money plants prefer well-draining soil. You can use a basic potting mix, or you can mix your own with equal parts of garden soil, sand, and compost to ensure proper drainage. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Tip: Repot the plant every year or when it outgrows its pot to allow room for root expansion.
Humidity and temperature
- Money plants enjoy moderate to high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, especially during winter, mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity.
- Growing a money plant in water is another easy and stylish way to enjoy this plant. This method is simple, and it looks great in transparent containers where you can watch the roots grow.
- Pick a transparent glass or vase to grow your money plant. The container should be wide enough to support the stems but not too deep.
- Tip: Change the water every 2-3 weeks to keep it fresh and free from algae.
- Cut a healthy stem from an existing money plant with at least 2-3 nodes (the small bumps where roots will form). Remove any lower leaves to prevent them from rotting in the water.
- Place the stem cutting in the container with water, making sure that at least one node is submerged. In a few weeks, you’ll notice roots starting to grow.
- Tip: Avoid using tap water if it contains chlorine. Filtered or rainwater is ideal for your plant.
- Pruning: Regular pruning keeps your money plant looking healthy and promotes bushier growth. Cut back long or leggy vines to encourage fuller growth.
- Fertilising: Feed your money plant with a diluted liquid fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid overfertilising, as it can damage the roots.
- Pest control: Money plants are generally resistant to pests, but occasionally, they can attract aphids or mealybugs. If you notice any pests, clean the leaves with a damp cloth or spray the plant with a mixture of water and mild soap.
- Support for growth: If you want your money plant to climb, provide it with support, such as a moss pole or trellis. The plant’s aerial roots will latch on and encourage vertical growth.
- Yellowing leaves: This is usually a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out before the next watering and check that the pot has proper drainage.
- Drooping leaves: If the leaves are drooping, it could be due to underwatering. Give your plant a good soak and monitor the watering schedule.
- Slow growth: If your money plant isn’t growing as fast as expected, it may need more light. Try moving it to a brighter location but out of direct sunlight.
Money plants are great starter plants for those who are new to plant parenting. They require minimal interventions, and it can be very rewarding to see them grow. So give them a try today by following these easy tips.
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