If you’re looking to add a touch of greenery to your space, the money plant (also known as Pothos or Devil’s Ivy) is one of the best choices. Not only is it beautiful with its heart-shaped leaves, but it’s also incredibly easy to care for, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.
In this ultimate guide to how to take care of a money plant, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your money plant happy and thriving, whether it’s indoors or outdoors.
Why You’ll Love the Money Plant
Before we dive into the care tips, here are a few reasons why the money plant is so popular:
Low Maintenance: Money plants are extremely forgiving and can survive with minimal attention.
Air Purifying: It’s known to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins and releasing oxygen.
Fast Growing: With the right care, your money plant can grow long vines and quickly spread, making it a great addition to any space.
Versatile: Money plants can be kept as hanging plants, in pots, or even trained to grow along a trellis or on a stake.
Money Plant Care: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Light Requirements
Money plants are adaptable to various lighting conditions, but here’s how to ensure they thrive:
Bright, Indirect Light: Ideally, place your money plant in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near a window with filtered sunlight is perfect. The plant’s variegated leaves (if you have a variety with lighter streaks) need more light to maintain their pattern.
Low Light Tolerance: One of the reasons money plants are so popular is their ability to thrive in low-light environments. They can survive in corners or rooms with less natural light, but they won’t grow as vigorously.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: While they can tolerate some sunlight, direct sun can burn the leaves, especially if they’re not accustomed to it. If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, the plant may be getting too much sun.
2. Watering the Money Plant
Money plants are relatively forgiving when it comes to watering, but there are a few important guidelines to follow:
Allow the Soil to Dry: The most important rule is to let the soil dry out between waterings. Stick your finger into the soil—if it feels dry about an inch deep, it’s time to water.
Watering Frequency: Depending on the climate, watering once a week is generally sufficient. During the warmer months, you may need to water more frequently. In winter, the plant goes into a rest period, so reduce the watering.
Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is one of the most common problems with money plants. Ensure your pot has good drainage to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.
Water Quality: If possible, use filtered or distilled water as the money plant can be sensitive to the chemicals in tap water, particularly fluoride.
3. Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
Pot Size: Choose a pot that’s just slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. Money plants like to be a little root-bound, so they don’t require a large pot. A pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent water from collecting at the bottom.
Soil: A well-draining potting mix works best for money plants. You can use a mix meant for houseplants or make your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or sand for extra drainage.
4. Temperature and Humidity
Money plants are generally tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels, but to keep them happy:
Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C – 29°C). Keep your plant away from cold drafts, air conditioners, or heaters, as sudden temperature fluctuations can cause stress.
Humidity: Money plants thrive in moderate humidity. If you live in a particularly dry area, you can increase the humidity by placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water or occasionally misting the leaves. However, they generally adapt well to average household humidity levels.
5. Fertilizing the Money Plant
Feed During Growing Season: Fertilize your money plant once a month during the spring and summer months when it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Fertilizer Type: You can use any general-purpose houseplant fertilizer, but avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to nutrient buildup and damage to the roots.
Winter Rest Period: In the winter, when the plant is in a dormant state, it doesn’t need fertilizer. Skip the feeding during this period.
6. Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning: Money plants don’t require heavy pruning, but occasional trimming will help keep them looking neat and encourage new growth. Cut off any dead or yellowing leaves or spindly stems.
Pinching: Pinching back the top of the plant encourages branching and fuller growth. If you want your plant to grow taller, leave the top stems intact.
Cleaning the Leaves: Dust can accumulate on the large, glossy leaves, so wipe them down gently with a damp cloth to keep them looking healthy and shiny. This also helps the plant absorb more light.
7. Propagating Money Plants
One of the easiest plants to propagate, you can grow new money plants with just a few cuttings:
Take a cutting: Cut a healthy stem just below a node (the part where leaves grow from the stem).
Place the cutting in water: Put the stem in a jar of water, making sure the node is submerged.
Wait for roots to grow: After 2-3 weeks, you’ll see roots forming. Once they’re a few inches long, transfer the cutting to soil, or keep it in water as a beautiful indoor plant.
8. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even though money plants are hardy, here are a few common issues you might encounter:
Yellowing Leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering, poor drainage, or too much direct sunlight. Check your watering habits and light exposure.
Brown Leaf Tips: This could indicate underwatering, low humidity, or too much fertilizer. Ensure proper watering and humidity levels.
Leggy Growth: If your plant is growing long stems without leaves, it may not be getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location.
Conclusion: How to Take Care of a Money Plant
Taking care of a money plant is easy, and with just a little attention, it will thrive in your home or office. Here’s a quick recap of the key points:
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Low light is fine, but the plant will grow slower.
Water: Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Water thoroughly but avoid overwatering.
Temperature & Humidity: Keep your plant in a warm, moderate-humidity environment.
Fertilize: Feed it monthly during the growing season, and skip in the winter.
Prune & Propagate: Trim back spindly stems and propagate easily from cuttings.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy a lush, thriving money plant in your home for years to come. Happy gardening! Let me know if you ne Oki