Transferring Soil for Money Plants: Instructions for Successful Transplantation
In the world of houseplants, few are as iconic as the money tree (Pachira aquatica). Maintaining a healthy money tree involves careful attention, especially when it comes to repotting. Here's a simple guide to help you repot your money tree successfully.
Choosing the Right Pot
Select a new pot that is about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. The pot should have drainage holes to prevent root rot. This size allows room for growth but not so large that the soil remains soggy.
Preparing the New Planter
Start by filling the bottom of the new pot with a layer of well-draining soil mix. An ideal blend includes cocopeat, perlite, and compost for aeration and moisture control. The pot should have good drainage to keep roots healthy.
Removing the Plant from the Current Planter
Gently loosen the soil around the edges of the current pot. Tip the pot and carefully slide the money tree out, supporting the base of the plant and the root ball. Check for root bound conditions or circling roots, which indicate it's time to repot.
Placing the Plant in the New Planter
Place some fresh soil mix at the bottom of the new pot, then set the money tree in. Fill around the root ball with the soil mix, lightly packing it without compacting too much to maintain good airflow. Leave space at the top for watering.
Watering the Plant After Repotting
Water the plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom, encouraging roots to settle and helping eliminate any air pockets in the soil. After this initial watering, let the topsoil dry slightly before watering again to avoid overwatering.
Additional Tips
- Repot when roots are circling the base or when the plant looks root-bound.
- Using clean tools and handling roots gently reduces transplant shock.
- Monitoring roots for rot and trimming damaged roots helps maintain plant health.
- Prepare the planter by filling it with fresh, well-draining potting soil or a potting mix, about one-third full.
- Add a layer of gravel, pebbles, clay pellets, or similar porous materials to the base of the new planter before placing the money plant.
- Pay attention to the moisture level of the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly to keep your money tree healthy.
- Water your money tree generously the night before repotting.
- Gently tap the soil to flatten it from the top, leaving about an inch of space between the top of the soil and the planter for watering.
- Place the money plant in the centre of the new planter, ensuring it is upright and straight within the planter.
- Avoid overwatering or underwatering your money tree to prevent root rot or wilted leaves.
- If using a spray bottle to mist your plant's leaves, use water from a spray bottle as needed.
- After repotting, water the money plant thoroughly until water starts to exit through the drainage holes.
By following these steps, you'll ensure a smooth transition for your money tree to its new home and promote healthy growth. Happy repotting!
- When moving your money tree to a new home-and-garden, consider a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than its current one, ensuring it has drainage holes for proper aeration and moisture control.
- To maintain a healthy lifestyle for your money tree, prepare the new planter with a blend of cocopeat, perlite, and compost, providing good drainage for the roots to thrive.
