Buzz
The Money Tree, also known as the braided tree, is believed to bring positive energy and good fortune to its owner. It is loved for its low maintenance needs. The tree features a thick trunk, often braided into a unique shape, with large green leaves, and it can grow up to 3 meters tall. Regular pruning is important to keep the plant from growing too large and to maintain its attractive form. Start by deciding the best time to prune, then use garden shears for the task. It's recommended to pinch new shoots and prune the Money Tree regularly for a healthy and vibrant growth.
Steps
Choose the Right Time to Prune
Prune when the tree becomes too large. The Money Tree should be pruned when its branches or leaves grow too tall or spread beyond the pot. You may notice branches or leaves reaching upwards or sticking out from the sides of the pot, causing the plant to lose its shape. This is when pruning is necessary to reshape the tree and encourage healthy new growth.
Use garden shears to trim dry and wilted leaves. If you notice any dry, wilted, or brown leaves, you can remove them with pruning shears. Brown leaves might indicate that the air around the plant is too dry or cold, or it could be a sign that the plant is not getting enough natural light.
Prune regularly in the spring. The Money Tree will maintain its best shape if pruned at least once a year during the spring. Aim to prune between March and May to ensure healthy growth throughout the rest of the year.
Pruning the Tree
Use sharp garden shears to prune the tree. Look for pruning shears at gardening stores or online. Make sure the shears are clean and sharp to achieve precise cuts.
- Avoid using shears that have been used on plants with pests, as this could transfer diseases to your Money Tree. Consider using disinfected shears or a separate pair dedicated to your Money Tree pruning.
Find two branches forming a V shape from the trunk. Look for two branches that grow outward from the trunk in a V shape. Use your finger to measure just above the V to mark the spot where you will cut.
- Prune at the V-shape to help the tree maintain its form and encourage healthy growth.
Cut the trunk about 1.3 cm above the V-shaped branches. Hold the pruning shears at a 45-degree angle when cutting the trunk. Make a clean cut to remove branches and leaves.
Trim branches at the top and sides of the tree. Gradually trim around the tree, cutting back any long branches at the top and sides. Remember to cut the trunk about 1.3 cm above the V-shaped branches.
Prune all branches with dry or brown leaves. If you notice dry or brown leaves, cut back the branches at a 45-degree angle. Leave at least 1.3 cm of the branch so it can grow back fuller and healthier.
Don't trim more than half of the tree's size. Take a cautious approach and trim gradually. Remove a few long branches and all the brown leaves. Step back and evaluate the tree's shape. If the tree still looks uneven, continue trimming until it appears more balanced.
- Avoid cutting too many branches at once, as this could stunt the tree's growth. Trim a little bit each time rather than over-pruning in one go.
Tree Maintenance
Pinch and prune the tree regularly to prevent it from growing too large. If you notice new shoots growing on the branches, gently pinch them off to encourage stronger growth. You can also use pruning shears to trim any branches that are growing too long to maintain the tree's size and promote fresh growth.
Water the roots when the soil feels dry. Use a watering can or a long-spouted watering bottle to water the roots, as watering the stem or leaves can lead to rot and attract pests. Only water when the soil feels dry to the touch to prevent overwatering.
- Water less frequently in the winter months to avoid root rot.
Repot the tree every 2-3 years. When the root system fills the pot, it's time to repot the plant. The best time to do this is mid-summer. Gently remove the tree and soil from the pot. Use clean garden shears to trim about a quarter of the root mass, then place the tree into a new pot with drainage holes, adding fresh soil or gravel.
- Water the Money Tree thoroughly after repotting to encourage healthy growth. You can soak the pot in a water basin or use a watering can to water the roots.
