What soil is best for money tree plants? That’s a very common question. In this article you’ll learn all you need to know about how to choose the perfect mix for Pachira aquatica, and I’ll also give you my recipe so you can make your own.
Selecting the right soil for a money tree (Pachira aquatica) is an important step in maintaining their optimal health. Using the wrong kind can cause issues like rot, or over time, even death.
This guide goes over everything you need to know about the types of soil a money tree needs to thrive.
You’ll learn which ones are the best, what properties they should have, and even how to mix your own using my simple recipe.
What Type Of Soil Does A Money Tree Need?
When choosing the type of soil, it’s important to remember that a money tree likes to dry out between drinks.
If the soil holds too much moisture, it can cause a lot of issues like yellowing leaves and rot. But it should retain enough to keep the roots from drying out.
The best kind is a peat-based or sandy medium that drains quickly and won’t get soggy. They also need plenty of nutrients, and a loose, aerated mixture.
Related Post: How To Care For A Money Tree Plant (Pachira aquatica)
The Best Soil For Money Tree
The best type of soil for a money tree is free-draining, nutrient rich, and porous.
Don’t use a standard potting mix, because they can hold too much moisture. That makes it easy to overwater, and Pachira aquatica are very susceptible to root rot.
To help you choose the best medium, read the package to find something with the following properties.
Well-Draining
One of the most important things to look for is a mix that lists fast-draining as the main quality.
That will allow all the excess water to leave the pot once the soil has been moistened, which is exactly what you want.
Loamy, Nutrient Rich
Next you should check the nutrient content of the mixture. Don’t choose something that has chemical fertilizer added, but one that contains organic materials.
The soil should be rich and fertile, with plenty of natural nutrients to feed and sustain your money tree.
Moisture Retentive
Money trees won’t tolerate wet soil, but they don’t like it to dry out completely either.
Look for natural moisture-retentive ingredients, rather than synthetic ones. Pine bark, vermiculite, coco coir, or peat moss are good examples.
Porous Mix
If the word ‘porous’ is on the bag, that’s another good indicator that the mix could work.
This means it will be aerated and loose enough to allow water to pass through it easily, without holding onto too much.
Money Tree Soil pH
The ideal soil pH range for money trees is somewhere between neutral and slightly acidic. Aim for between 6 and 7.5 on a probe meter.
Mixes that contain peat or sphagnum moss will naturally help to acidify it.
If yours is too acidic, add garden lime to balance it out. If it’s too alkaline, use a soil acidifier or acidic fertilizer granules to increase it.
Related Post: How To Prune A Money Tree
How To Make Potting Soil For Money Trees
If you’d prefer to make a DIY potting soil for your money tree, you can do it very easily.
Using a commercial mix is quick and easy. But making your own gives you complete control over the ingredients, and will often save you money.
Pachira Aquatica Soil Mix Recipe
Below is my money tree potting soil recipe. You can make a small batch as you need it, or mix a bunch and store the leftovers for later.
To measure ‘parts’ you can use any container, like a 1 gallon bucket or a measuring cup. Just be sure to use the same container for each ingredient so it stays consistent.
- 2 parts pre-moistened peat moss or coco coir
- ½ part perlite or pumice
- ½ part coarse sand
- ¼ – ½ part vermiculite (use ½ a part if you tend to under water)
- ½ part pine bark (optional)
Mixing Instructions
If yours isn’t pre-moistened, wet the peat moss or coco coir so it’s damp but not sodden.
Then combine all of the materials in a bucket or potting tray. Use a shovel or hand trowel to stir until everything is mixed evenly.
You can use what you need right away, then store the leftovers in a container or bucket with an airtight lid.
Related Post: How To Propagate Money Trees In Water Or Soil
FAQs
Here I’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about Pachira aquatica soil. If yours isn’t on the list, please add it to the comments section below.
Can I use any soil for money tree?
No, you cannot use any potting soil for a money tree. This can cause issues with their health, and could eventually lead to root rot and death. You should always choose one that’s free-draining, rich, and porous.
Do I need special soil for money tree?
You don’t need special soil for a money tree, as long as the one you have contains the ideal properties. It should be fast-draining, porous, and nutrient-rich to support healthy a root system.
Can I use regular potting soil for a money tree?
No, I don’t recommend using regular potting soil for a money tree. General purpose mixes don’t always drain very well, which can cause root rot.
Can I use cactus or succulent soil for money tree?
Cactus or succulent soil can be great options for a money tree because they’re designed to be well-draining. However, they often lack nutrient-rich materials. If the one you choose contains organic matter, like pine bark for example, then it can work well.
Can I use orchid soil for money tree?
Orchid soil can be a good commercial option for a money tree because it’s well-draining, nutrient-rich, and slightly acidic. However, if you find it’s drying too quickly, then you should add peat moss or coco coir to help it retain more moisture.
Choosing the right soil for your money tree is important for a thriving plant. Choose or make a mixture with the qualities above to set yours up for long-lasting health.
If you want to learn all there is to know about maintaining healthy indoor plants, then you need my Houseplant Care eBook. It will show you everything you need to know about how to keep every plant in your home thriving. Download your copy now!
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Share your tips for the best money tree soil or your favorite recipe in the comments section below.
Lynn says
Is miracle grow oak for a money trees?
Amy Andrychowicz says
I personally do no like that brand of potting soil and do not use it. But, depending on the type, it may work for your money tree. Just make sure to look for one that’s not too heavy, and see if they have one that doesn’t contain chemicals (like fertilizers), because those can be harmful.
Lin brooke says
Hi I’m trying to save a friend’s money tree I will look at my bag of spoil to see if it says porous on it. I have sand an perlite.