How to Care for and Grow Indoor Money Plants in the UK

Money plants are a popular choice for indoor gardening, prized for their attractive foliage and low maintenance. From the classic jade plant (Crassula ovata) to the Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides), there are a variety of money plants to choose from that can beautify your home and are also steeped in cultural significance. In this guide, we’ll explore how to care for your money plant, repot it, propagate cuttings, and more.

What is a Money Plant?

A money plant is a common term used to describe several species of indoor plants believed to bring good luck and prosperity. The most well-known varieties include the jade money plant (Crassula ovata) and the Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides). These plants are favoured for their unique round or oval leaves and are easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners to indoor plants.

Chinese Money Plant Spiritual Meaning

In Feng Shui, the Chinese money plant is believed to attract wealth, prosperity, and positive energy. Its round, coin-like leaves symbolize abundance and financial luck. Placing the plant in the southeast corner of your home and keeping the leaves clean are thought to enhance these beneficial effects. Some even suggest that lighting gold or yellow candles around the money plant, or placing items such as banknotes around it can enhance its powers.

Money Plant Flowers

While it’s rare for a Chinese money plant to flower indoors, they can produce small, white flowers on thin stems under ideal conditions. Proper care, including sufficient light and regular fertilization, can encourage blooming. These delicate flowers add an extra touch of charm to an already beautiful plant.

Jade money plants are more likely to produce flowers than Chinese money plants. These flowers are typically small, star-shaped, pinkish-white flowers, often in clusters. Flowering is more common for mature plants (several years old) and can be encouraged by ensuring the plants receives bright, indirect light for several hours a day. FLowering is also more common after a period of colder weather (10 - 15 °C).

How to Pot a Money Plant in Soil for the Indoors

Potting a money plant correctly is important for the growth and longevity of the plant. Here are some steps to follow when potting your money plant.

Select the Right Pot

• Size: Choose a pot slightly larger than the plant’s root ball to allow for growth. Avoid oversized pots, as they can lead to overwatering issues.
• Drainage: Opt for a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which is a common cause of root rot. If you're worried about indoor water damage, see tips below on handling drainage.
• Material: Terra-cotta or ceramic pots are excellent choices as they allow better airflow and moisture balance.

Potting Process

• Adding a thin layer of small stones or gravel at the base of the pot to improve drainage.
• Partially fill the pot with soil, ensuring enough space for the plant's roots.
• Position the money plant at the center of the pot and gently spread out its roots.
• Fill the remaining space with soil, pressing lightly to secure the plant. Avoid covering the stem too deeply.

Watering Tips

• Water thoroughly after potting, ensuring excess water drains out.
• Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry before watering again. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves or drooping.

Preventing Water Damage Indoors

While pots with drainage holes are vital for healthy plants, they can pose a risk of water damage indoors. Here’s how to avoid that:

• Use a Saucer: Place a saucer or tray under the pot to catch excess water. Empty it promptly to prevent sitting water.
• Double Potting: Use a decorative, hole-less outer pot to catch any runoff while still using a drainage pot inside.
• Protect Surfaces: Add felt pads, cork mats, or plastic protectors under pots or saucers to shield floors and furniture.
• Water Safely: Water the plant in a sink or basin, let it drain fully, then return it to its spot.

How to Look After a Money Plant

Money plants thrive in bright, indirect light, with well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch their leaves. When it comes to watering, allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as overwatering is one of the most common issues faced by money plant owners.

How Often to Water a Money Plant

The frequency of watering depends on the plant variety and environmental conditions. Typically, water your money plant once every 1–2 weeks, ensuring the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows down.

Chinese Money Plant Care

The Chinese money plant (Pilea peperomioides) is known for its striking, coin-shaped leaves. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can tolerate low light conditions, though growth may slow. Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure even growth. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

How to Repot a Money Plant

Repotting your money plant every 2–3 years helps promote healthy growth. Choose a pot that’s one size larger than the current one, with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Use a well-draining potting mix, and be gentle when handling the roots. Water the plant lightly after repotting.

How to Take a Cutting from a Money Plant

Propagating money plants is simple and rewarding. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem with at least 2–3 leaves. Cut just below a node and place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil. If propagating in water, change the water weekly and wait for roots to develop before planting.

Why is My Money Plant Dropping Leaves?

Leaf drop in money plants can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, sudden temperature changes, or insufficient light. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Ensure the plant is not exposed to cold drafts or extreme heat.

Conclusion

Caring for a money plant is straightforward and rewarding. By following these tips, you can ensure your plant remains healthy and vibrant, adding a touch of greenery and good fortune to your home. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, money plants are a fantastic choice for indoor gardening.