Welcome to the world of plants that do a lot more than purify the air or add a beautiful touch to your interior; they bring positivity and wellness inside. Welcome into a lush world of indoor plants in which the star could be considered a money plant. This post will take you through everything you need to know about this special plant, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out with them.
1. What is a Money Plant?
The money plant is known scientifically as the Pachira aquatica; it is also referred to as the jade plant. It features on the top ten lists for indoor plantsmen. It is cherished for being very easy to care for and makes the spot around its placement bright. The leaves are round and of an emerald green color, hence making it quite attractive. It generally brings in positive energy in Feng Shui.
It is native to the Americas, starting from Central America down to South America. It has become a common feature in homes across the globe. Many people also consider it to help in creating a balanced and peaceful environment.
2. Why Is the Money Plant So Popular?
The money plant is popular, not only for its elegance but for reasons that it holds good energy in itself. Whether one intends to add style to an indoor garden or simply cherish the view of lush, green leaves, the money plant can add charm to any space.
3. How to Take Care of Your Money Plant
1. Placement and Lighting
Indirect sunlight is good for the money plant. Though it does not require direct sunlight to grow healthily, it needs a warm and bright environment. Too much direct sunlight may burn the leaves, while low light affects the beauty of the green color. Most money plants love south-facing or east-facing windows.
2. Watering
You don’t want your money plant to be overly dry, but on the same hand, if you overwater, it may develop root rot. The trick is to let it dry somewhat between waterings. So, check the top inch of its soil. If it is dry, then it is the time for watering.
3. Temperature and Humidity
It likes temperatures between 65°F and 75°F-about 18°C to 24°C. It should not be exposed to drafts or heating vents, as the extreme temperature fluctuations do little to help it thrive. It also prefers the moderate household humidity, though a bit more moisture helps it grow well.
4. Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is required for a money plant to be healthy. One can use regular potting mix, adding perlite or sand to enhance drainage and aeration.
5. Pruning and Shaping
Pruning helps keep the money plant full and healthy. Besides maintaining its health, it keeps the plant tidy and develops new leaves from growing. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to keep it healthy in general.
4. The Money Plant as a Symbol
1. The Jade Plant and Feng Shui
A certain type of the money plant, the jade plant is quite famous in Feng Shui. Because of their shape, a round coin-shaped leaf, they are said to bring harmony and balance into a location. Feng Shui states that placing a jade plant in the southeast area of your home or workplace can ensure growth and health.
2. Lucky Bamboo: Another Symbolic Plant
Although technically not a money plant, the most common association of good energy is associated with the stem of the lucky bamboo. The tall slender stalks are said to invite good energy into your home, especially if they were arranged in a particular number, such as the three-stalk setting that brings happiness and longevity.
5. Money Plant in Various Cultures
1. Chinese Beliefs
The money plant holds a special place in residences and businesses in China. It is usually given during the New Year as a means of starting the new year with good vibes and positive energy.
2. Indian Traditions
In India, the money plant is widely kept for the fact that it brings good vibes and positive energy. You can find it in homes, offices, and gardens, indicating well-being.
6. Benefits of Keeping Money Plant inside Your House
1. Purifies the Air
Apart from its symbolic value, the money plant is a very good air purifier. It even entered the Clean Air Study by NASA where it was found that it can remove formaldehyde and benzene toxic chemicals from the air, making the interior environment healthier.
2. Reduces Stress
Indoor plants, especially money plants, have been known to be mood elevators and stress busters. Keeping one near your work area or living room brings a sense of calmness into your space.
7. Growing Your Money Plant Indoors
1. Propagating the Money Plant
The propagation of the money plant is quite easy; you need only to cut a healthy stem with at least one leaf node, put it in water, and wait for roots to appear. Once the rooted cuttings are about an inch long, you can transfer them into the soil.
2. Growing in Water vs. Soil
Money plants can thrive either in water or soil. If you go by the minimalist look, then growing this plant in a clear vase full of water adds to the modern touch. Just remember to change the water every couple of weeks to avoid root rot.
8. Vastu Placement of Money Plant: Where to Keep the Money Plant to Reap the Most Benefits
1. In Your House
This plant is believed by Feng Shui to amass good energy when placed in the southeast corner of your home. You can also place it in your living room or at the front entrance to invite good vibes into your space.
2. In Your Office
Place the money plant in the southeast corner of your office or working space, and let the serenity of the environment nurture well-being. It is a great way to add that touch of nature on your desk.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid While Taking Care of Your Money Plant
1. Overwatering
One of the most common mistakes with money plants is overwatering. Allow time for the soil to dry between waterings; this way, root rot will not occur.
2. Direct Sunlight
Money plants love brilliant lights, but having too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves. Keep your plants always in indirect sunlight for the best results.
3. Poor Soil Quality
Using thick non-draining soil can block the development of your money plant. One should always use a potting mix that would drain in order to keep the plant healthy.
Why You Should Get a Money Plant Today
It’s not only that the plant adds beauty to an indoor garden, but it also purifies the air and helps create a serene atmosphere in your house. If these care tips are well-followed, this plant is bound to thrive and bring positivity into your home. So what are you waiting for? Bring home a money plant today and avail yourself of its many benefits!
I invite you to read our article on how to care for Lucky Bamboo to bring harmony and balance into your home.