Moving a money tree to a new pot might seem hard for people who are new to gardening, but it’s really not that hard.
Whether your plant has outgrown its current pot or just needs new, nutrient-rich soil, repotting it will not only help the roots grow quickly but also keep the tree healthy overall. This tropical wetland tree comes from Central and South America.
As you read on, we’ll also show you how to repot a money tree step by step, along with some helpful tips to make the process go smoothly and help your green friend.
The money tree is one of the most popular and iconic houseplants. Its braided trunk and vibrant green leaves can brighten up any space But like any houseplant, money trees eventually outgrow their pots and need to be repotted Knowing when to repot your money tree is key to keeping it happy and healthy.
Signs It’s Time to Repot Your Money Tree
There are a few telltale signs that indicate it’s time to repot your money tree:
Roots Poking Through Drainage Holes
One of the clearest signs your money tree needs more space is when you see roots coming out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot This shows the root system has run out of room to expand in the pot
Slow Growth
If your money tree has stopped putting out new growth for several months, despite getting the proper care, restricted roots could be the culprit. Repotting into a larger container gives the roots more room to grow and will often kickstart new growth.
Leaves Drooping
Droopy, wilting leaves can be a symptom of an overly root-bound money tree. When the roots fill up a pot, they can’t take up enough water and nutrients to support all the foliage Repotting into fresh soil gives the roots access to more resources.
Toppling Over
Some money trees can get quite top-heavy, especially if they’ve gotten leggy from insufficient light. If your plant is unstable and tipping over a lot, restricted roots may be preventing the plant from anchoring itself properly. Repotting can allow the roots to expand and provide more stability.
Needs Frequent Watering
Does your money tree require frequent watering to avoid wilting, even though it’s not particularly hot or dry? Limited root space prevents it from storing water in the potting mix. More room to grow will increase the plant’s water reserves.
Small Pot
Even if your money tree isn’t exhibiting any of the other symptoms, it’s a good idea to repot it into a larger container every 2-3 years. This ensures the roots don’t become severely bound and provides room for the plant to grow larger over time. A good rule of thumb is to move up one pot size, about 2 inches wider diameter.
When to Repot Money Trees
The best time for repotting a money tree is during the spring and summer months. This is the main growing season when the plant is actively putting out new foliage and roots.
Avoid repotting in fall and winter when growth slows down. Repotting during dormancy can shock the plant and cause leaf drop or other stress symptoms.
If your plant shows signs it desperately needs more room in fall or winter, you can still repot it, but take extra care not to damage roots and be watchful for any negative effects.
How Often to Repot Money Trees
On average, you should plan to repot your money tree every 2-3 years. Some key factors that determine repotting frequency include:
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Plant age – Younger money trees may only need repotting every 3-4 years, while older, larger specimens likely need it more often.
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Pruning – If you regularly prune and trim your money tree to control size, you can go longer between repottings.
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Root growth – Fast-growing plants will need more frequent repotting than slow-growing ones.
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Pot size – Starting in a larger pot means repotting less often.
Keep an eye on your plant and look for signs it needs more space like drooping leaves and roots poking out drainage holes. That’s the best indication it’s time to size up to a larger container, regardless of timing.
Step-by-Step Repotting Guide
Follow this simple process for successfully repotting your money tree:
Choose New Pot
Pick out a new container that is 2 inches wider in diameter than the current pot. Make sure it has drainage holes. Ceramic and plastic pots both work well.
Water Thoroughly
Water your money tree the day before repotting. Moist soil is easier to work with and prevents damaging dry, delicate roots.
Remove from Current Pot
Turn pot on its side and gently slide plant out. If roots are tangled, use a knife to loosen them.
Loosen Roots
Gently shake or massage the root ball to loosen bound roots. Be careful not to break roots.
Prune Roots (Optional)
Using sterile pruners, you can trim back extra-long roots if needed to fit in new pot.
Add Fresh Soil
Place some fresh, well-draining potting mix in the bottom of the new container.
Insert Plant
Place money tree in new pot. The top of the root ball should sit just below the rim.
Backfill Soil
Add more potting soil around sides, firming it down with your hands to fill gaps. Leave 1 inch at top.
Water Well
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom drainage holes. Allow to dry out slightly before next watering.
Be sure to provide the same care following repotting. Place in a bright, warm spot and water when the top few inches of soil become dry. Mist leaves often to boost humidity.
Troubleshooting Issues After Repotting
Repotting a money tree can sometimes cause stress, but these problems can be avoided:
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Leaf drop – Usually caused by damaged roots or transplant shock. Keep the plant hydrated and in stable conditions. New leaves will grow back.
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Few new leaves – Ensure the plant gets enough warm temperatures, light, water and humidity to drive growth after repotting.
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Wilting – Don’t let soil dry out completely right after repotting. Water when partially dry and mist leaves.
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Leggy growth – Give the plant adequate light levels for compact growth after repotting. Rotate or prune elongated stems.
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Tippy or unstable – Gently tie thick stems together with twine for support until roots expand into new pot.
Repotting Tips and Tricks
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During repotting, you can divide congested money trees into two or more plants. Use a sterile knife to cut root ball into sections.
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Sprinkle slow release fertilizer into fresh soil to give plant a nutrient boost after repotting.
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Check that new pot has drainage holes before repotting to prevent root rot.
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Wear gloves and scrub tools with bleach after repotting to prevent transmitting diseases between plants.
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Repotting is a good time to prune overgrown money trees. Trim leggy stems back to just above a node.
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Let money tree dry out a bit more than usual for 1-2 weeks after repotting to allow damaged roots to heal.
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Repot in early morning or evening to avoid exposing delicate roots to hot sun during process.
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Water with liquid seaweed fertilizer once a month after repotting to reduce transplant stress.
Outgrowing a Pot is Normal
Don’t be surprised when your money tree eventually needs repotting. All plants have expanding root systems and periodic repotting into larger containers is perfectly normal and beneficial.
Just pay attention for signals like slow growth and drooping leaves that indicate restricted roots, and be prepared to size up its living space. With the proper approach, repotting is straightforward and will keep your money tree thriving for years to come!
Q: How often can you repot a money tree?
A: A money tree can be repotted once every 2 to 3 years to encourage growth. To tell if it needs to be moved early, you can also look for signs like roots poking out, slow growth, root rot, pests, or problems with watering.
How to Repot a Money Tree: Step-by-Step
Water your money tree generously a night before you plan to repot it. This will loosen up the soil, making it easier to remove the plant from its pot without damage.
Money Tree Care and repotting
When should you repot a money tree?
A money tree should be repotted every time its roots begin to outgrow the planter, but don’t jump to repotting too soon—every time you repot the plant, that causes stress, which can damage the plant over time. Repotting should only be done when it becomes absolutely necessary.
When should Money Trees be replanted?
Money Trees should be replanted in spring or early summer and given a slightly larger pot with fresh soil. This will give the plant plenty of room and nutrients to help it expand during its upcoming growing season. While they aren’t necessarily sensitive, Money Trees can experience shock from being transplanted.
How do you know if a money tree needs repotting?
Here are a few signs that indicate that your money tree needs repotting. Roots Protruding from Drainage Holes – when you see roots starting to protrude from the bottom drainage holes in your pot, it is time to repot. This indicates the root ball has outgrown the size of your pot and it needs more space.
Should I water my Money Tree before repotting?
To help facilitate the process, try watering your plant 3-4 days before your designated repotting day. It helps to moisten your soil, stopping it from becoming solid and preventing you from lifting your money tree, particularly when you have a narrow pot opening at the top.