Chinese Money Plant
Chinese Money Plant Care Guide
π Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal for this plant.
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Ideal spot: The Chinese Money Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it receives plenty of light but is shielded from direct rays.
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Direct sunlight: It can tolerate a bit of direct sunlight, but prolonged exposure can scorch its leaves, causing them to yellow or develop brown spots.
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Low light: While it can adapt to lower light, the plant may not grow as quickly and could become leggy with fewer leaves.
π Tip: For the best results, aim for bright, indirect light, but avoid too much direct sun.
π§ Water
Water when the top 1β2 inches of soil are dry.
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When to water: Let the top layer of soil dry out before watering. Water thoroughly, ensuring that excess water drains from the pot.
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How often: Typically, you'll need to water about once a week, but this can vary based on temperature, humidity, and light.
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Watering tips: Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Always make sure the plant is not sitting in excess water.
π§ Tip: If the leaves start to droop or yellow, it could be a sign of overwatering. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.
π‘οΈ Temperature & Humidity
Moderate temperatures and average humidity are best.
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Ideal temperature: The Chinese Money Plant prefers temperatures between 18β24Β°C (65β75Β°F). Itβs best to keep it away from cold drafts or areas with temperatures below 10Β°C (50Β°F).
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Humidity: It adapts well to average indoor humidity, but it will appreciate higher humidity levels. If your home is dry, you can place it on a humidity tray or use a humidifier.
π¬οΈ Extra tip: If your home is dry, misting the plant occasionally or placing it near other plants can help increase humidity.
π± Soil
Well-draining, slightly acidic soil is best.
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Best mix: A well-draining potting mix works best for the Chinese Money Plant. A peat-based mix with perlite or sand will help improve drainage.
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Drainage: Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom and causing root rot.
πΏ Fertiliser
Feed during the growing season for healthy growth.
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Type: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10) diluted to half strength.
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Feeding schedule: Fertilise every 4β6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) to encourage strong growth. In fall and winter, reduce feeding or stop altogether since the plantβs growth slows.
π± Tip: Avoid fertilising during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing.
πͺ΄ Potting & Repotting
Repot every 1β2 years or when it becomes root-bound.
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When to repot: Repot the Chinese Money Plant every 1β2 years, or when the roots outgrow the pot. Youβll notice it if the plant starts to become top-heavy or grows slowly.
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Best time to repot: Spring or early summer is the best time to repot, as this is when the plant is actively growing.
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Pot size: Choose a pot that is 1β2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to avoid overwatering and root rot.
βοΈ Pruning & Shaping
Pruning helps maintain a compact shape and encourages new growth.
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Pruning: Prune the plant to remove any leggy stems or leaves. This will help the plant maintain a bushier appearance and promote new growth.
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Shaping: The Chinese Money Plant tends to grow tall with a few leaves at the top. If you prefer a bushier look, trim back the longer stems.
βοΈ Tip: Removing leggy stems or leaves can also encourage the plant to produce new shoots at the base.
π± Propagation
Propagation is easy through stem cuttings.
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Cut a healthy stem with a few leaves, making sure it has at least one node (a small bump where roots can grow).
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Place the cutting in water, ensuring the node is submerged while the leaves stay above the waterline.
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Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
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Once roots have developed (typically after 2β3 weeks), transplant the cutting into a small pot of well-draining soil.
π± Tip: Chinese Money Plants are known for their ability to produce pups (small offsets) at the base. You can separate these pups and plant them in their own pots for easy propagation.
β οΈ Common Problems
| Problem | Symptoms | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Overwatering | Yellowing leaves, root rot | Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, and ensure good drainage |
| Underwatering | Wilting, dry leaves | Water thoroughly, ensuring consistent moisture without overwatering |
| Leggy growth | Long stems with few leaves | Increase light exposure and prune to encourage more compact growth |
| Pests (rare) | Small holes, pests visible on leaves | Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
β¨ Extra Care Tips
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Leaf cleaning: The large, round leaves can collect dust. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth every so often to keep them shiny and healthy.
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Watering tips: Make sure the plantβs soil dries out between waterings, but donβt let it dry out completely. It's better to underwater slightly than to overwater.
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Leaf positioning: If the leaves start to tilt toward the light source, you can rotate the pot regularly to encourage even growth.
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