Money Plant Care: Grow Wealth and Greenery in Your Home

Introduction

The Money Plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum or Pothos, is one of the most beloved indoor plants across the world. Admired for its beautiful heart-shaped leaves and low maintenance needs, the Money Plant is more than just a decorative houseplant—it’s a symbol of prosperity, good luck, and positive energy.

Whether you’re a beginner plant parent or a green-thumbed pro, this guide will help you care for your money plant the right way—bringing wealth, greenery, and peace into your living space.

Feature	Details
Common Name	Money Plant
Botanical Name	Epipremnum aureum
Light	Bright, indirect sunlight
Water	Once every 7–10 days
Ideal Location	Indoors, near windows
Symbolism	Wealth, prosperity, good luck
Propagation Method	Stem cuttings in water or soil
Pet Friendly?	Toxic to pets if ingested

Light Requirements

Money plants thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while low light may slow growth and reduce the vibrant green color. For optimal results, place your money plant near an east or north-facing window, where it gets gentle filtered light throughout the day. Avoid harsh afternoon sunlight, especially through south-facing windows, as it can burn the foliage.

While money plants can tolerate low light conditions, they grow faster and fuller in brighter environments. If natural light is limited, you can use grow lights to supplement their lighting needs and keep the plant healthy indoors.

Watering

Watering is crucial for a healthy money plant, but balance is key. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering may cause drooping or dry leaves. Always check the soil before watering—if the top 1–2 inches feel dry, it’s time to water.

Typically, money plants need watering once every 7–10 days. During hot months, the plant may need more frequent watering, while in winter, reduce it. Ensure your pot has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. If growing in water, change the water every 4–5 days to keep it fresh and prevent root decay. Consistency leads to lush, thriving growth.

Temperature & Humidity

Money Plants thrive in warm and humid environments, making them ideal for indoor settings. The optimal temperature range is between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). They are sensitive to extreme cold, so avoid placing them near air conditioners or cold drafts, especially during winter. In terms of humidity, they prefer moderate to high levels (50%–70%).

If your indoor air is dry, especially in heated rooms, consider misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or placing a water tray nearby to maintain moisture. Proper humidity and warmth support lush, vibrant foliage and overall plant health.

Soil & Potting

Money plants thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that retains some moisture but doesn’t stay soggy. The ideal potting mix is a combination of garden soil, coco peat, and perlite or sand in equal parts. This blend ensures proper aeration and root health. Avoid using heavy clay-based soils, as they retain too much water and may cause root rot.

Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation at the bottom. You can grow money plants in both soil-filled pots and transparent jars of water, depending on your style and preference. If growing in soil, consider repotting every 1–2 years to refresh nutrients and allow room for root expansion. Spring is the best time for repotting, giving the plant a fresh start for the growing season.

Pruning & Maintenance

Regular pruning is essential to keep your money plant healthy, bushy, and attractive. It encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy or sparse. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to trim long vines—ideally just above a leaf node, where new leaves will sprout. Prune dead or yellowing leaves promptly to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. If your money plant is trailing too far, you can shorten it to encourage fuller growth at the base.

You can also train it to climb trellises or moss sticks for a vertical display. Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them shiny. Regular maintenance ensures your money plant stays lush, vibrant, and full of positive energy.

How to Propagate Money Plant

One of the easiest plants to propagate!

In Water:

Cut a healthy vine just below a node
Remove the lower leaves
Place the cutting in clean water
Change water every 4–5 days
Roots will appear in 7–14 days

In Soil:

Take a cutting with at least 2 nodes
Plant directly in moist soil
Keep in indirect light and mist regularly
New growth appears in 2–3 week

Benefits of Keeping a Money Plant

Air Purification

NASA lists Money Plant as an effective air-purifying plant, removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene.

Attracts Wealth (Vastu/Feng Shui)

According to Vastu and Feng Shui, placing a money plant in the southeast direction brings wealth, success, and harmony.

Stress Reduction

Indoor plants like money plants reduce stress, enhance focus, and improve mental well-being.

Low Maintenance

Perfect for beginners and busy individuals—easy to grow and care for.

Money Plant Vastu Tips (For Good Luck)

To enhance the plant’s symbolic benefits, follow these Vastu rules:

Tip	Reason
Place in southeast corner	Associated with Goddess Lakshmi
Avoid placing in northeast	Can block financial growth
Do not grow in red bottles	Red color symbolizes conflict
Use green glass bottles	Encourages natural energy flow

Common Problems & Solutions

1. Yellowing Leaves

Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage
Fix: Allow soil to dry out before watering

2. Brown Leaf Tips

Cause: Dry air or under-watering
Fix: Increase humidity and water regularly

3. Leggy Growth

Cause: Low light
Fix: Move to a brighter spot and prune regularly

4. Leaves Drooping

Cause: Root rot or underwatering
Fix: Check root health and watering schedule

Toxicity Warning

Money Plant is toxic to pets (dogs and cats) if ingested. Keep it out of their reach.

Symptoms may include vomiting, irritation, or drooling. Contact your vet immediately if ingestion is suspected.

Styling Ideas for Your Home

Trailing from shelves or bookcases
Hanging baskets in living rooms or balconies
Glass jars with water propagation on your kitchen counter
Climbing wall trellises for a vertical garden look
Bathroom corners for a spa-like vibe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I water my money plant?

Water your money plant once every 7–10 days, or when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so always check soil moisture first.

2. Can money plant grow in water only?

Yes! Money plants can thrive in just water. Use a clean glass jar, change the water every 4–5 days, and place it in indirect sunlight for best growth.

3. Where should I keep my money plant at home for good luck?

According to Vastu, place your money plant in the southeast corner of your living room or home. Avoid placing it in the northeast direction.

4. Does money plant purify air?

Yes. Money plant is one of the NASA-recommended air-purifying plants. It helps remove indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.

5. Why are the leaves of my money plant turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves are usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure your pot has drainage holes and allow the soil to dry between watering.

6. How do I make my money plant bushier?

To make your money plant bushier:

Prune regularly just above a leaf node
Place in bright, indirect light
Fertilize monthly during growing seasons

7. Is money plant toxic to pets?

Yes. Money plant contains calcium oxalates, which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.

8. How long does it take for a money plant to grow roots in water?

Roots typically appear within 7–14 days after placing a healthy cutting in clean water.

9. Can I keep a money plant in the bedroom?

Yes, you can. Money plants release oxygen at night and help purify the air. Just make sure there is indirect light and proper air circulation.

10. Do money plants really bring wealth and luck?

While there’s no scientific proof, Vastu and Feng Shui traditions believe that money plants attract wealth, prosperity, and positive energy, especially when placed in the right direction.

Conclusion

The Money Plant is more than a houseplant—it’s a powerful symbol of abundance, peace, and natural beauty. With minimal effort, you can grow a plant that not only beautifies your space but also brings a sense of calm and prosperity. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a curious beginner, adding a Money Plant to your home might just be the best green investment you make.