The money tree also known as Pachira aquatica is a popular indoor plant known for its braided trunk and vibrant green leaves symbolizing good fortune. However, when those lush leaves start curling downward, it signals trouble for your plant.
Leaf curling is the money tree’s way of communicating that something is wrong with its care. Thankfully, with some detective work and attentive care adjustments, you can get your money tree back to health.
Read on to learn the most common reasons behind money tree leaves curling down and how to fix them.
Main Causes of Downward Leaf Curling
There are 5 key culprits that can cause the leaves of your money tree to curl or droop downward:
-
Underwatering – Insufficient water leads to leaves curling inward and downward as the plant attempts to prevent water loss. This is the most common cause of curling.
-
Overwatering – Too much water results in root rot, meaning the roots can’t absorb nutrients properly. This stresses the plant and makes leaves droop and curl.
-
Low humidity – Dry air causes the plant to lose moisture through its leaves, resulting in downward curling leaves as it tries to conserve water.
-
Temperature stress – Exposure to very cold or very hot temperatures triggers the leaves to curl downward to minimize water loss.
-
Direct sunlight – Too much hot sun scorches the leaves, making them curl downward or wilt to avoid damage.
Detecting the Cause of Downward Curling
Pay close attention to other accompanying symptoms to pinpoint the reason behind the curling:
-
Underwatered money trees will have leaves that feel dry and crispy. The soil will be bone dry. Leaf curling starts from the bottom up.
-
Overwatered money trees will have leaves starting to turn yellow or brown. The soil stays soggy for too long after watering. Roots may be dark and mushy.
-
Dry air causes leaf curling along with brown crispy leaf edges and tips. Humidity around the plant is below 40%.
-
Temperature stress shows leaves rapidly curling downward when exposed to air that is very cold or very hot.
-
Excess sunlight results in yellowing or scorched looking leaves that curl away from the light source. Nearby leaves may be sunburned.
5 Tips to Fix and Prevent Downward Leaf Curling
Based on your detective work, utilize these solutions to restore your money tree’s lush leaves:
1. Adjust Watering Frequency and Technique
-
Water thoroughly only when the top inch of soil is dry. Stick your finger in to check.
-
Water until it drains out the bottom, then don’t water again until dry.
-
Water slowly and deeply to encourage healthy roots.
2. Increase Humidity
-
Use a humidifier and aim for 40-60% humidity around the plant.
-
Group plants together to create a moist microclimate.
-
Mist the plant daily with room temperature water.
3. Provide Optimal Temperatures
-
Keep the money tree around 65-80°F, away from hot or cold drafts.
-
Move it away from heating/AC vents and out of direct sunlight.
4. Filter Bright Light
-
Place in a spot with plenty of indirect sunlight.
-
Use sheer curtains to prevent harsh direct sun from scalding leaves.
5. Treat Pests
-
Insect pests like spider mites suck nutrients, causing leaves to curl.
-
Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to get rid of any pests.
-
Quarantine new plants and keep leaves dust-free.
Preventing Future Leaf Curling
Once you’ve corrected the issue, keep your money tree thriving with these easy prevention tips:
-
Allow soil to dry out between waterings and water deeply.
-
Monitor humidity levels daily and increase as needed.
-
Provide bright, indirect light.
-
Keep away from drafts and vents.
-
Groom leaves weekly by wiping with a damp cloth.
-
Repot annually in spring to provide room for root growth.
-
Feed every 2-3 months during spring and summer with diluted liquid fertilizer.
When to Worry About Downward Curling Leaves
While some occasional leaf curling is normal, contact a plant expert if:
-
Leaves rapidly curl downward over a short time
-
Severe curling continues despite corrections
-
Multiple leaves quickly curl at the same time
-
Curling spreads up the plant from old to new leaves
These signs indicate an advanced underlying problem requiring diagnosis and aggressive treatment. Don’t delay taking action.
Curling Leaves Are a Helpful Alert System
Keep a close eye on your money tree and pay attention when its leaves start curling downward. With attentive care tailored to the cause, you can get your plant looking lush and healthy again. Just be sure to give it the consistent water, light, temperature and humidity it needs to thrive.
Humidity: The Unsung Hero
Finally, lets talk humidity. Your Chinese Money Plant is a bit of a diva when it comes to moisture in the air. It thrives in a humidity level of 40-60%.
If your homes air is drier than a stand-up comedian, fear not. You can raise the humidity by putting a tray of water next to your plant, misting it often, or buying a plant humidifier.
It’s important to remember that your plant doesn’t want to be left out in the sun or in a sauna. A balanced, consistent environment is key to keeping those leaves uncurled and happy.
In the next section, well dive into the world of watering and soil conditions. Because, as we all know, a plants gotta drink (and eat) too.
Correcting Light and Environmental Conditions
Light is your first line of defense against your Chinese Money Plant becoming a plant contortionist. But not just any light. Were talking about the Goldilocks kind of light – not too harsh, not too dim, but just right.
Indirect light is the secret sauce here. Your plant doesnt want to be a sunbathing beauty, nor does it fancy lurking in the shadows. It craves a well-lit room with filtered, indirect sunlight. So, put it next to a window that faces north or east, or a few feet away from one that faces south or west.
Money Tree Troubleshooting (Yellow Leaves, Leaves Falling Off & MORE!)
FAQ
What does an overwatered Money Tree look like?
How do you fix curling down leaves?
How do you fix Money Tree droopy leaves?
How do you fix curling pilea leaves?