Houseplants – How to Care for Braided Money Tree
For those garden enthusiasts who crave the odd and unusual in the way of plant life are certainly going to want to take a good look at the infamous Braided Money Tree, also known as Pachira Aquatica. This unique tree displays winding trunks that can grow to reach anywhere from one foot to an impressive several feet in height.
The Bonsai version of this odd wonder of nature has the capability to reach about one foot, while full sized versions of this impressive tree can reach an astonishing seven feet in height. With its height and eclectic appearance, the Braided Money Tree makes for a wonderful addition to any homes décor.
This artistic tree displays luxuriant green foliage that will inspire and entice any home decorator’s fantasies. In addition, the unique size of the Bonsai variety will provide a spectacular addition to any indoor garden.
As with all plant life, the Braided Money Tree does require care, however, that care is a little more intensive. Following a strict set of guidelines to care for your bonsai will help ensure a healthy growth for many years to come. Starting a bonsai from scratch is something that should be left up to those with an expert-level of knowledge. Therefore, many garden enthusiasts wishing to own a bonsai will acquire one after it has developed over many years.
Bonsai plants are particular when it comes to the task of watering. This species of plant requires plenty of water, but along with that, it also requires excellent drainage capabilities. There are two factors that affect both water and drainage and they are soil and pot.
The composition make up of the soil is detrimental to the plants ability to drain properly. It is recommended that a loamy soil combined with small pebbles be used in conjunction with a pot which offers one or two more drainage holes. The drainage holes can be covered by wire mesh or small rocks which will allow the water to flow through, but not the soil. Some believe adding some river sand will add some porous areas that will assist in the drainage process. Additional additives you can mix with the soil include peat, vermiculite and perlite.
Many species of plant require different amounts of watering. The Braided Money Tree for example actually prefers a little less watering. A routine watering once a week or even one cup a month is often the best practice. However, it is important to note that the amount of water required is based on pot size and soil composition, so a little research will help you determine the correct amount for your specific plants needs. Another great practice to implement the health of your bonsai is misting. This regular routine will assist the leaves in gaining much needed moisture, while also keeping dust away.
It is essential to the growth of the bonsai that the soil be allowed to dry out between each watering. There are a couple of signs that can tell you if you are over watering or under watering. If the leaves of the bonsai begin to wilt and turn a yellowish color, that is a sign that the soil is too moist. If the leaves begin to wrinkle or curl, that is a sure sign there is not enough moisture in the soil.
Sunlight is another essential element in the health of any plant. The Braided Money Tree prefers light amounts of sunlight. The perfect spot for a bonsai is any room in the house that receives indirect sunlight followed by shade. The origin of these unusual plants is one of heat and moisture, so if your bonsai are placed on a porch, it is very important that they be brought indoors if the temperature reaches below fifty degrees Fahrenheit.
In regards to a fertilization routine, the bonsai version of this plant requires none at all. To ensure a healthy plant, just be sure it receives plenty of fresh air and trim off any dead leaves.
Following a strict care guideline will allow your Braided Money Tree to flourish and delight you for many, many years to come.
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