The money tree bonsai, scientifically known as Pachira aquatica, is a popular and beloved plant in many households and offices. With its braided trunks and lush, palm – like foliage, it not only adds a touch of greenery and aesthetic appeal but also holds symbolic meaning of good luck and prosperity in many cultures. Repotting is an essential part of money tree bonsai care, as it helps the plant to grow healthily, ensures proper nutrient uptake, and prevents it from becoming root – bound. In this article, we will take you through the entire process of repotting a money tree bonsai in a step – by – step manner, covering everything from the right time to repot, the necessary tools and materials, to the actual repotting procedures and post – repotting care.
Why Repot a Money Tree Bonsai?
1. Root Growth and Space
As a money tree bonsai grows, its roots expand and fill the existing pot. When the roots become too crowded (root – bound), they start circling around the pot, which can restrict their growth and the plant’s overall health. Repotting provides the roots with more space to spread out, allowing them to access water and nutrients more effectively.
2. Soil Quality
Over time, the soil in the pot loses its fertility and structure. It can become compacted, which reduces aeration and drainage. Fresh soil during repotting provides essential nutrients and a better growing medium for the money tree bonsai, promoting healthy root development and overall plant growth.
When to Repot A Bonsai Money Tree
1. Growth Season
The best time to repot a money tree bonsai is during its active growth season, which is typically in the spring or early summer. During this time, the plant is more resilient and can recover more quickly from the stress of repotting. Avoid repotting in the winter when the plant is in a dormant state, as it may not have the energy to adapt to the new environment.
2. Signs that Repotting is Needed
Roots Emerging from the Drainage Holes: If you notice roots poking out of the bottom of the pot, it’s a clear sign that the plant has outgrown its current container.
Slow Growth: A money tree bonsai that has stopped growing or is growing very slowly may be root – bound and in need of repotting.
Water Drainage Issues: If water takes a long time to drain from the pot or pools on the surface, the soil may be compacted, and repotting is necessary.
Tools and Materials Required
1. New Pot
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, usually 1 – 2 inches wider in diameter. A pot that is too large can cause over – watering as the soil will retain too much moisture. The pot should have good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Clay pots are a great choice as they are porous and allow for better air circulation around the roots, but plastic or ceramic pots can also be used.
2. Soil Mix
A well – draining soil mix is crucial for a money tree bonsai. You can create a suitable mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. Peat moss retains moisture, perlite improves drainage and aeration, and pine bark provides structure. You can also add a small amount of slow – release fertilizer to the soil mix to provide nutrients for the plant in the long – term.
3. Pruning Shears
Sharp pruning shears are needed to trim any damaged, diseased, or overly long roots during the repotting process. This helps to promote healthy root growth and prevents the spread of diseases.
4. Trowel or Spoon
A trowel or a small spoon is useful for gently removing the plant from its old pot and for adding and spreading the new soil in the new pot.
5. Gloves
Wearing gloves can protect your hands from any thorns or sharp edges on the plant and also prevent the transfer of any bacteria or fungi to the plant.
6. Watering Can
A watering can is required to water the plant thoroughly after repotting.
How To Repot A Bonsai Money Tree?
Step 1: Preparation
1. Select the New Pot
As mentioned earlier, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Clean the new pot thoroughly with warm water and soap to remove any dirt or chemicals. If it’s a used pot, you can also soak it in a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water for about 10 – 15 minutes to sterilize it, then rinse it well.
2. Prepare the Soil Mix
Mix the peat moss, perlite, and pine bark in a large container. If you are adding slow – release fertilizer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount to add. Stir the mixture well until it is evenly combined.
Step 2: Removing the Plant from the Old Pot
1. Water the Plant
A day or two before repotting, water the money tree bonsai thoroughly. This will make it easier to remove the plant from the pot without damaging the roots. The moist soil will also help to keep the roots intact during the transfer.
2. Loosen the Soil
Gently tap the sides of the old pot to loosen the soil. You can also use a trowel or a spoon to carefully pry the soil away from the edges of the pot. Be very careful not to damage the trunk or the roots of the plant.
3. Remove the Plant
Hold the base of the money tree bonsai gently with one hand and turn the pot upside down. Tap the bottom of the pot to help the plant slide out. If the plant is stuck, you may need to gently wiggle it or use a trowel to further loosen the soil around the edges.
Step 3: Inspecting and Pruning the Roots
1. Inspect the Roots
Once the plant is out of the old pot, carefully examine the roots. Look for any signs of damage, such as broken or rotted roots. Healthy roots should be white or light brown in color. Dark, mushy roots are a sign of rot.
2. Prune the Roots
Using sharp pruning shears, trim away any damaged, diseased, or overly long roots. Cut the roots just above the damaged area. If the roots are severely root – bound, you can also gently tease them apart to encourage new growth. Be careful not to remove too many healthy roots, as this can shock the plant.
Step 4: Placing the Plant in the New Pot
1. Add a Layer of Soil
Put a layer of the prepared soil mix at the bottom of the new pot. The thickness of this layer will depend on the size of the plant, but it should be enough to raise the plant to the correct height so that the base of the trunk is just above the rim of the pot.
2. Position the Plant
Place the money tree bonsai in the center of the new pot. Make sure that the plant is upright and at the desired height. You can adjust the height by adding or removing some soil from the bottom of the pot.
3. Add More Soil
Slowly add the soil mix around the roots of the plant, gently shaking the pot or tapping it to help the soil settle. Fill the pot until the soil reaches about 1 – 2 inches below the rim of the pot. This will leave enough space for watering.
Step 5: Watering and Settling the Soil
1. Water Thoroughly
After filling the pot with soil, water the money tree bonsai thoroughly. Use a watering can with a fine – spout to ensure that the water is evenly distributed. Water until the water starts to drain out of the bottom of the pot. This will help to settle the soil and remove any air pockets around the roots.
2. Check for Drainage
Make sure that the water is draining properly from the bottom of the pot. If the water is pooling on the surface or draining very slowly, there may be a problem with the drainage holes or the soil mix. You may need to add more perlite to the soil mix or check if the drainage holes are blocked.
Post – Repotting Care
1. Light and Temperature
Place the repotted money tree bonsai in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days, as the plant is still recovering from the stress of repotting and direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. The ideal temperature for a money tree bonsai is between 65 – 85°F (18 – 29°C).
2. Watering
In the first week after repotting, water the plant only when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Over – watering during this period can lead to root rot, as the plant’s roots are still adjusting to the new environment. After the first week, you can resume your regular watering schedule, which is usually once a week or when the soil has dried out to a certain extent.
3. Fertilizing
Do not fertilize the money tree bonsai immediately after repotting. Wait for at least a month to allow the plant to recover and establish itself in the new pot. After a month, you can start using a balanced, water – soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
4. Monitoring Growth
Keep an eye on the money tree bonsai’s growth. You may notice some wilting or yellowing of the leaves in the first few days, which is normal as the plant is adjusting. However, if the problem persists or if the plant shows other signs of distress, such as stunted growth or new leaf drop, there may be an issue with the repotting process, such as over – or under – watering, or a problem with the soil or pot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using the Wrong Pot Size
Using a pot that is too large can lead to over – watering and root rot, while a pot that is too small will not provide enough space for the roots to grow.
2. Over – Pruning the Roots
Removing too many healthy roots can shock the plant and inhibit its growth. Only prune the damaged, diseased, or overly long roots.
3. Not Watering Correctly
Both over – watering and under – watering can be harmful to a repotted money tree bonsai. Follow the watering guidelines provided in the post – repotting care section to ensure the plant’s health.
4. Repotting at the Wrong Time
Repotting during the plant’s dormant season (winter) can increase the risk of the plant not recovering well from the stress of repotting.
Conclusion
Repotting a money tree bonsai may seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, tools, and patience, it can be a rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your money tree bonsai continues to thrive and bring beauty and good fortune to your living or working space for years to come. Remember to pay attention to the details, from choosing the right time and pot to proper post – repotting care, and your money tree bonsai will reward you with its lush growth and charming appearance. Regular repotting is an investment in the long – term health and vitality of your plant, and with a little care, your money tree bonsai will be a source of joy and pride in your plant collection.
