The money tree (Pachira aquatica) is more than just a beautiful indoor plant — it’s believed to bring prosperity, good fortune, and positive energy to any space. But to keep your money tree healthy and thriving, one essential task you’ll need to master is repotting. Whether your plant has outgrown its current pot or needs a fresh start, knowing how to repot a money tree properly can make all the difference.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through:
- When and why you should repot a money tree
- The signs that your plant needs a new home
- What materials and tools you need
- Step-by-step instructions on how to repot a money tree
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Aftercare tips to help your plant adjust
Let’s dig in — pun intended!
Why Repotting Is Essential for Your Money Tree’s Health
Plants don’t like to feel cramped, and your money tree is no exception. Over time, the roots can become root-bound, meaning they grow in circles around the pot and have no room left to expand. This can lead to:
- Poor nutrient and water absorption
- Stunted growth
- Wilting leaves
- Root rot from poor drainage
By repotting your money tree, you give it room to grow, access to fresh nutrients, and a healthier environment overall. It’s like upgrading from a small studio apartment to a spacious new home!
When Should You Repot a Money Tree?
The best time to repot a money tree is in early spring or summer, during its active growing season. This gives your plant plenty of time to adjust and recover in warmer weather.
How often should you repot a money tree?
- Every 2–3 years is ideal for mature plants.
- Younger trees may need repotting more frequently — sometimes every 12–18 months.
Signs Your Money Tree Needs Repotting
Not sure if it’s time? Watch for these clear signs:
- Roots coming out of the drainage holes
- Soil dries out too quickly after watering
- Stunted growth or yellowing leaves
- The plant becomes top-heavy or leans to one side
- Water pools on top of the soil or drains too slowly
- The pot is visibly cracked or too small
If you’re noticing one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get repotting.
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Here’s a checklist of tools and materials to have ready:
Tools:
- Gardening gloves
- Scissors or pruning shears (sterilized)
- Small trowel or hand spade
- A tarp or workspace covering (to avoid mess)
Materials:
- A new pot (2 inches larger in diameter than the current one)
- Fresh well-draining soil
- Optional: Orchid bark, perlite, or pumice for better aeration
- Optional: Rooting hormone (if trimming roots)
💡 Tip: Choose a pot with good drainage holes. Avoid pots that are too large, as they may retain too much water and cause root rot.
Choosing the Right Pot for a Money Tree
Money trees prefer pots that balance moisture retention and drainage. The pot should be:
- 1–2 inches wider in diameter than the old one
- Made of terra cotta, ceramic, or plastic
- Equipped with drainage holes
Avoid pots that are too deep or wide, as excess soil can hold water and suffocate the roots.
Best Soil for Repotting a Money Tree
Your money tree loves light, well-draining soil. You can use a commercial indoor potting mix, but for best results, consider blending:
- 2 parts peat moss or coco coir
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- 1 part orchid bark or coarse sand
This mix provides the right combination of aeration, drainage, and moisture retention.
How to Repot a Money Tree: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your New Pot and Soil
- Fill the bottom of the new pot with a few inches of fresh potting mix.
- Make a small mound or depression in the center to help support the root ball.
Step 2: Remove the Money Tree from Its Current Pot
- Gently tip the pot sideways.
- Tap the sides and bottom to loosen the root ball.
- Carefully pull the plant out, supporting the base of the trunk.
If the roots are stuck, slide a dull knife or spatula along the inner rim of the pot.
Step 3: Inspect the Roots
- Shake off excess soil and gently tease the roots apart.
- Trim away any dead, mushy, or overly long roots with sterilized scissors.
- If the plant was root-bound, use your fingers to loosen the root ball.
Step 4: Place the Plant in the New Pot
- Position the plant upright in the center.
- The base of the trunk should sit about 1 inch below the rim of the new pot.
- Backfill with fresh soil, pressing lightly around the base to eliminate air pockets.
Step 5: Water Thoroughly
- Water the plant until you see drainage from the bottom.
- This helps settle the soil and hydrates the roots.
Do not fertilize immediately after repotting — wait 4–6 weeks to avoid stressing the plant.
Aftercare: Helping Your Money Tree Thrive Post-Repotting
Your money tree may look a little droopy or stressed after repotting. That’s normal!
What to Do Next:
- Place the plant in bright, indirect light
- Keep it away from drafts, direct sun, and extreme temperatures
- Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry
- Avoid fertilizing until it shows signs of new growth
Within 2–4 weeks, your plant should perk up and continue growing.
Common Repotting Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced plant parents make these errors. Here’s what to steer clear of:
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Potting in a container that’s too big | Can lead to overwatering and root rot |
| Using regular garden soil | Often too dense and poorly draining |
| Overwatering after repotting | Roots are vulnerable and can rot easily |
| Not loosening root-bound roots | Can prevent healthy new growth |
| Fertilizing too soon | May burn the roots and stress the plant |
Bonus: Can You Repot a Money Tree in Water?
Some people experiment with hydroponic setups or propagation in water. While young cuttings can start in water, a mature money tree prefers soil-based growth for long-term health.
You can, however, propagate a money tree in water by:
- Taking a healthy stem cutting
- Removing the lower leaves
- Placing it in a jar of clean water
- Changing the water every few days
Once roots form, transfer it to soil.
FAQs About Repotting Money Trees
It’s best to avoid it unless absolutely necessary. The plant is semi-dormant and less resilient during colder months.
That’s normal stress. As long as the roots weren’t severely damaged and conditions are stable, it will bounce back.
Light pruning of dead or damaged branches is fine. But avoid major pruning at the same time as repotting.
Yes! You don’t need to separate the braid. Just handle the roots carefully and pot the entire braided base together.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to repot a money tree is a key skill for any houseplant enthusiast. Whether your tree is struggling or just outgrowing its pot, giving it fresh soil and room to grow can bring it back to life.
Remember:
- Repot every 2–3 years
- Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes
- Be gentle with roots and give your plant time to adjust
With the right care, your money tree will reward you with lush green growth — and maybe even a little extra luck!