Is your money plant looking a little worse for wear? Don't worry, it's not uncommon for these plants to struggle from time to time. With the right care and attention, you can revive your money plant and get it back to its former glory. In this article, we'll take you through the steps to revive a dying money plant, covering everything from identifying the problem to providing the right environment and care.
Table of Contents
Identifying the Problem
Before you can start reviving your money plant, you need to identify what's causing the problem. Take a closer look at your plant and check for any of the following signs of distress:
- Wilting or droopy leaves
- Yellowing or browning leaves
- Slow growth
- Pests or diseases
- Overwatering or underwatering
Once you've identified the problem, you can start taking steps to address it.
Watering Issues
One of the most common problems with money plants is watering issues. If you're not careful, you can easily overwater or underwater your plant, leading to a range of problems. Here are some tips to help you get your watering just right:
- Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
- Water your money plant thoroughly, making sure the pot drains well to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
- Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, rather than following a strict watering schedule.
Lighting and Temperature
Money plants prefer bright, indirect light, but they can tolerate a range of lighting conditions. If your plant is struggling, it may be due to inadequate lighting or extreme temperatures. Here's what you need to know:
- Place your money plant near a sunny window, but use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause scorching.
- Keep your plant away from heating vents and air conditioning units, which can cause temperature fluctuations.
- Maintain a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal growth.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your money plant can give it a much-needed boost, but be careful not to overdo it. Here are some tips for fertilizing your money plant:
- Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning your plant's roots.
- Fertilize your plant once a month, taking a break during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning and Grooming
Pruning and grooming your money plant can help promote healthy growth and prevent pests and diseases. Here's what you need to know:
- Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease.
- Cut back long stems to encourage bushy growth.
- Use clean, sharp pruning tools to prevent spreading diseases.
- Prune your plant during the growing season to encourage new growth.
Pest Control
Pests can be a major problem for money plants, causing damage and spreading disease. Here are some common pests to look out for and how to control them:
- Mealybugs: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Soil and Repotting
Money plants prefer well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. If your plant is struggling, it may be due to poor soil quality or a lack of nutrients. Here's what you need to know:
- Use a high-quality potting mix that's specifically designed for indoor plants.
- Repot your money plant every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and a larger pot.
- Choose a pot that's only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it's easy to make mistakes when caring for your money plant. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overwatering: This is one of the most common mistakes, and it can be fatal for your plant.
- Underwatering: On the other hand, not providing enough water can also cause problems.
- Lack of humidity: Money plants prefer a humid environment, so make sure to mist your plant regularly.
- Insufficient light: While money plants can tolerate low light, they'll thrive in bright, indirect light.
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you should be able to revive your money plant and get it back to its former glory. Remember to be patient and observant, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Money Plant?
A Money Plant, also known as Pilea peperomioides, is a popular, low-maintenance houseplant that is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. It's a small, round-leafed plant with a unique appearance and is often used as a decorative piece in homes and offices.
Why is my Money Plant dying?
If your Money Plant is dying, it could be due to a variety of reasons such as overwatering, underwatering, lack of light, extreme temperatures, or pests. Check the soil moisture, adjust the lighting, and inspect for pests to determine the cause and take corrective action.
How often should I water my Money Plant?
Water your Money Plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. This is usually every 7-10 days during the spring and summer months, and less often during the fall and winter. Make sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
What kind of soil is best for my Money Plant?
Use a well-draining potting soil that is specifically designed for indoor plants. Avoid using garden soil, as it can retain too much water and cause root rot. You can also mix your own soil using a combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
How much light does my Money Plant need?
Money Plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Place your plant near an east- or west-facing window, or use grow lights if necessary. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause leaf scorch.
What is the ideal temperature for my Money Plant?
Money Plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and no lower than 55°F (13°C) at night. Avoid placing your plant near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows.
How do I fertilize my Money Plant?
Feed your Money Plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots.
Can I propagate my Money Plant?
Yes, you can propagate your Money Plant by taking leaf cuttings or dividing the roots. Take 2-3 inch stem cuttings, remove lower leaves, and plant them in moist soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm until roots develop.
Why are my Money Plant leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on your Money Plant can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, too much direct sunlight, or root bound conditions. Check the soil moisture, adjust the lighting, and consider repotting your plant if the roots have outgrown the container.
How do I prune my Money Plant?
Prune your Money Plant to maintain its shape, encourage new growth, and remove dead or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut back long stems and remove any weak or spindly growth.
Can I grow my Money Plant outdoors?
Yes, you can grow your Money Plant outdoors in a shaded area with consistent moisture and temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). However, be aware that outdoor conditions can be more challenging, and your plant may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Why are there white spots on my Money Plant leaves?
White spots on your Money Plant leaves can be caused by pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. Inspect your plant carefully and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How do I treat pests on my Money Plant?
Treat pests on your Money Plant by isolating the plant, removing any infested areas, and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product's instructions. Repeat the treatment as necessary to ensure all pests are eliminated.
Can I repot my Money Plant?
Yes, you can repot your Money Plant when it has outgrown its container or is showing signs of nutrient deficiency. Choose a pot that is only 1-2 sizes larger and use fresh, well-draining potting soil.
How often should I repot my Money Plant?
Repot your Money Plant every 1-2 years in the spring when it becomes pot-bound. This will give the roots room to grow and refresh the soil.
Why is my Money Plant not growing?
If your Money Plant is not growing, it may be due to a lack of light, inadequate watering, or insufficient fertilization. Check the lighting, adjust the watering schedule, and fertilize your plant regularly to promote healthy growth.
Can I use my Money Plant as a gift?
Yes, a Money Plant makes a great gift for friends, family, or coworkers. It's a low-maintenance plant that's easy to care for and can bring good fortune and prosperity to the recipient.
How do I care for my Money Plant during the winter?
During the winter, reduce watering to once every 4-6 weeks, as the plant is dormant. Keep the temperature consistent, and avoid placing your plant near heating vents or fireplaces.
Can I grow my Money Plant in a terrarium?
Yes, you can grow your Money Plant in a terrarium, but be aware that it may require more frequent watering and pruning to maintain healthy growth. Choose a clear glass or plastic container with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Why are my Money Plant leaves curling?
Curling leaves on your Money Plant can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or extreme temperatures. Check the soil moisture, adjust the watering schedule, and maintain a consistent temperature to prevent curling.
Can I use my Money Plant in a hanging basket?
Yes, you can use your Money Plant in a hanging basket, but make sure it's large enough to accommodate the plant's mature size. Use a well-draining potting mix and water carefully to avoid washing away the soil.
How do I revive a dying Money Plant?
To revive a dying Money Plant, inspect the roots for rot, prune any dead or damaged leaves, and adjust the watering schedule. Provide bright, indirect light, and maintain a consistent temperature to promote healthy growth.
Can I grow my Money Plant in a self-watering pot?
Yes, you can grow your Money Plant in a self-watering pot, but make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overwatering. Self-watering pots can be beneficial for busy people or those who tend to forget to water their plants.
Why is my Money Plant dropping leaves?
Your Money Plant may be dropping leaves due to overwatering, underwatering, or extreme temperatures. Check the soil moisture, adjust the watering schedule, and maintain a consistent temperature to prevent leaf drop.
Can I use my Money Plant in a floral arrangement?
Yes, you can use your Money Plant in a floral arrangement, but make sure to handle the plant gently and avoid damaging the roots or stems. Choose a arrangement that allows for good air circulation and maintains the plant's natural shape.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.