Best Fertilizer for Money Tree Plant: Indoor Growth & Feeding Guide

The money tree plant (Pachira aquatica) is a popular houseplant known for its braided trunk, glossy green leaves, and reputation for bringing good fortune. Native to Central and South America, the money tree has adapted well to indoor growing conditions across Australia—but its care routine needs to include proper fertilisation for best results. Whether you keep it on a sunny windowsill or in an office corner, feeding your money tree the right fertiliser helps maintain lush foliage, thick stems, and steady growth without legginess or yellowing.

Understanding the Money Tree Plant’s Needs

Although it can reach up to 5 m tall in the wild, the money tree is often grown as a compact indoor plant in pots ranging from 20 cm to 30 cm wide. Its needs are simple: bright, indirect light, consistent watering, and a nutrient routine that supports foliage without forcing fast, weak growth.

Nutrient breakdown:

Nitrogen (N): Essential for lush leaf production and vibrant green colour
Phosphorus (P): Supports root health and base structure—important for braided specimens
Potassium (K): Maintains plant turgidity, improves stress resistance and water use
Micronutrients: Magnesium, iron, and calcium prevent common issues like leaf curl, yellowing, or poor branching

Overfeeding a money tree, especially with high-nitrogen fertilisers like lawn or vegetable blends, is a common mistake. This leads to overly soft, elongated stems and faded foliage. Instead, use a balanced, low-to-medium strength liquid fertiliser that supports slow, stable growth indoors.

When and How to Fertilise a Money Tree Indoors

Fertilising your money tree should follow its natural indoor growth rhythm. In Australian conditions, most money trees actively grow from early spring through late autumn and slow down in winter. This makes seasonal adjustments essential.

Spring and Summer (September–February)

This is the most active growth phase for indoor plants. Begin feeding your money tree monthly with a balanced houseplant fertiliser. Use a water-soluble blend at half strength to avoid buildup in potting mix. Ensure that your plant is well-lit but not scorched by direct sunlight. Avoid fertilising if the soil is dry, as this can lead to root burn. Always water before or immediately after feeding.

Autumn (March–May)

Growth slows, but the plant may still produce new leaves depending on indoor temperature and light. Reduce feeding to once every 6 weeks, and continue using the same fertiliser at a diluted strength. If the plant is pushing out thin leaves or yellow tips, this may indicate excess nitrogen or poor drainage rather than deficiency.

Winter (June–August)

Money trees go semi-dormant in colder weather or when exposed to less daylight. Pause all fertilisation during this period unless your indoor conditions remain warm and bright (e.g., under grow lights). Resume feeding in early spring when new leaves begin to appear. Additional tips:

Flush the soil every 3 months to remove salt buildup from repeated fertiliser use
Repot every 2 years with fresh soil to maintain nutrient availability
Avoid feeding a stressed plant (e.g., after overwatering or pest treatment)

Common Feeding Mistakes & FAQ

Many money trees in homes and offices struggle not due to light or water, but due to nutrient imbalances or overfeeding. Here’s how to avoid the most common fertilising mistakes for Pachira aquatica:

Using outdoor fertilisers: Lawn, citrus, or vegetable blends are too strong for indoor money trees and can scorch roots.
Feeding during dormancy: In winter, the plant’s metabolism slows. Fertilising during this time can lead to weak or deformed new growth.
Neglecting micronutrients: Lack of magnesium or iron can cause chlorosis, especially in low-light corners.
Skipping root flushes: Without leaching salts from the pot, fertiliser residue builds up and causes leaf burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best NPK ratio for a money tree?
A balanced blend such as 6-6-6 to 20-20-20 is suitable, but always use a diluted dose. Too much nitrogen can overstimulate growth.

Can I use succulent or orchid fertiliser for my money tree?
These are usually too weak or unbalanced. Instead, choose a houseplant-specific formula with full macro and micronutrient support.

How often should I fertilise my money tree?
Monthly in spring and summer, every 6–8 weeks in autumn. Stop entirely during winter unless actively growing.

What causes yellow leaves on money trees?
This may result from overwatering, salt buildup, or a nutrient imbalance—often a lack of magnesium or overfeeding nitrogen.