The Pachira aquatica, commonly known as the Money Tree, is a popular houseplant admired for its braided trunk and palm-like foliage. Despite its general hardiness, this tropical species is highly susceptible to root rot. Root rot is the most frequent and destructive issue encountered by owners, developing quickly once conditions are right. Recognizing the signs of this disease is the first line of defense in preserving the plant’s health.
Identifying Symptoms Above and Below Soil
The initial signs of root rot manifest above the soil line, often mimicking symptoms of other common houseplant problems. You may first notice the leaves turning a pale yellow color, which is a common indicator that the roots are unable to absorb essential nutrients due to water saturation. This discoloration is frequently followed by the tips and edges of the leaves turning brown and becoming brittle, signaling a severe disruption in the plant’s hydration.
The tree will also exhibit wilting or drooping foliage, even though the soil feels damp to the touch, because the damaged roots cannot transport water effectively. A more advanced symptom is the softening of the trunk or stem near the base of the plant. Healthy wood should be firm, but a rot-infected trunk will feel mushy or squishy when gently pressed, indicating that the decay has spread upward from the roots.
Final confirmation of the problem requires inspecting the roots themselves. Healthy Money Tree roots should appear firm and be white or a light tan color, signaling active growth and proper function. In contrast, affected roots will look dark brown or black and feel soft and mushy, often falling apart when handled.
The presence of a foul or sour smell emanating from the pot or the root ball is another sign of advanced decay. This odor is caused by the anaerobic bacteria and fungal pathogens thriving in the perpetually wet environment. The combination of dark, slimy roots and a putrid smell confirms the presence of root rot.
Why Money Trees Develop Root Rot
Root rot is not caused by a specific pathogen but rather by an environmental condition that encourages the proliferation of harmful fungi and bacteria. The underlying mechanism involves the creation of an anaerobic environment within the soil, meaning it lacks sufficient oxygen. When soil remains waterlogged for an extended period, the air pockets necessary for root respiration are displaced by water.
The most common trigger for this anaerobic state is persistent overwatering, where the plant is given water before the soil has had a chance to dry out. Using a potting mix that is too dense or heavy will exacerbate this issue, as these mixes retain excessive moisture and restrict air flow around the roots. Poor drainage is another major factor, often resulting from a pot without adequate drainage holes or a saucer that is left full of standing water after irrigation.
Choosing a pot that is too large for the current root system can also contribute to the problem. An oversized container requires a large volume of soil, much of which will remain wet because the small root ball cannot absorb the moisture quickly enough. This prolonged saturation leads to the ideal conditions for decay.
Steps for Saving an Infected Money Tree
Saving a Money Tree from root rot requires careful action to halt the progression of the decay. The first step is to gently remove the plant from its container and wash the roots under running water to remove all traces of the contaminated, old soil. Removing the soil is important because it likely harbors the fungal spores and bacteria responsible for the rot.
Next, inspect the root ball and prune away all damaged sections using sterilized scissors or shears. You should only cut back the roots that are dark, slimy, or mushy, continuing to trim until only firm, white, or healthy tissue remains. After pruning, the remaining healthy roots can be dipped in a solution of diluted hydrogen peroxide to help sterilize the tissue and kill lingering pathogens.
The Money Tree must then be repotted into a clean container. The new pot must have functioning drainage holes, and it should be filled with fresh, fast-draining potting mix, such as a blend specifically formulated for cacti or succulents that includes perlite or bark. Following repotting, withhold water for several days to allow the trimmed roots to heal. Going forward, only water when the top inch or two of the soil is completely dry, ensuring the new routine prevents future waterlogging.