How to grow a money tree in winter?

The fortune tree , also known as Malabar chestnut, water chestnut, etc., has a thick trunk and sometimes has a multi-branched tree shape, resembling a "money tree", hence the name. The money tree has high ornamental value, and you must master the proper methods when caring for it. So how do you care for the money tree in winter? Let’s take a look with the editor below.

1. Temperature

The money tree is not cold-resistant and the temperature should be kept above 5℃ in winter. In northern regions, the money tree can be moved indoors for maintenance, and the indoor temperature should be kept above 10-15℃. If the indoor temperature is low, you can put a plastic bag over the plant to raise the temperature. Too high a temperature will cause the money tree to be unable to dormant normally, affecting its growth and flowering in the following year, so it is not recommended to place it in a heated room.

2. Lighting

The money tree needs sufficient light in winter, which is conducive to its photosynthesis and nutrient accumulation. It should be placed in a well-lit area, such as a south- or east-facing windowsill, ensuring that it receives at least 3-4 hours of direct sunlight every day. If there is insufficient light indoors, consider using artificial light to supplement it.

3. Watering

In winter, the money tree enters a dormant period and its water demand decreases. Generally, it only needs to be watered once every 1-2 months. Wait until the soil surface is dry before watering, keeping the soil slightly dry. When watering, try to pour slowly along the edge of the pot to avoid direct contact of water with the roots and to prevent water accumulation and root rot. The best time to water is at noon when the temperature is higher.

4. Fertilization

Although the money tree grows slowly in winter, it still needs proper nutrients to maintain its life activities. Some dilute fertilizers , such as compound fertilizers or decomposed organic fertilizers , can be applied appropriately to provide sufficient nutrients. However, you should pay attention to the growth conditions of the plants to determine whether fertilizer is needed, as well as the concentration and interval of fertilizer application to avoid fertilizer damage. If the temperature is relatively low or the money tree has stopped growing, it is not advisable to apply fertilizer.

5. Ventilation

Keep ventilated: The indoor environment is too closed in winter, which will cause the money tree to be infected with diseases and pests. Therefore, during the noon period when the weather is clear, you can open the windows appropriately to ventilate, maintain indoor air circulation, and prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests. But be careful not to place the money tree near the window to avoid the cold wind damaging the leaves.

6. Pruning and shaping

In winter, the money tree can be properly pruned and shaped by cutting off dense branches, overgrown branches, diseased and insect-infested branches, dry branches and weak branches, etc., to improve the permeability and ornamental value of the plant and reduce nutrient consumption. But be careful not to carry out large-scale pruning, so as not to affect the healthy growth of the plants.

The above is an introduction to how to grow a money tree in winter. The potting soil of the money tree should be replaced every two years or so. When replacing it, cut off some of the old roots and choose a slightly larger flowerpot to meet its growth needs. The best time to repot is in spring, when the money tree grows vigorously and can recover easily after repotting.