Pachira aquatica
Quick answer
From October to March, a drooping money tree is most often cold or standing in soil that stays wet, because it drinks far less in short days. Push a finger into the soil: if it is still damp days after watering, hold off. Move it away from cold glass and drafty doors.
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How to tell
The soil is bone dry and the whole plant has gone limp, often with crispy leaflet tips beforehand.
The fix
If the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch, water thoroughly and let excess water drain away. If the mix is still wet, do not add water just because the leaves droop. Check moisture before watering again.
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How to tell
Soggy roots can also cause drooping because damaged roots cannot take up water. The soil is wet, the base feels soft, and adding more water makes the damage worse. Small dark flies around moist potting medium may be fungus gnats. They suggest conditions suitable for breeding, without proving that the surface never dries.
The fix
Hold off while the mix is wet. Inspect the roots, remove soft, rotten roots with clean tools and repot in fresh, well-drained, lightly moist mix. Let excess water drain away and avoid drying the entire root ball. Water according to moisture, only when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. Check drainage and do not water just because a calendar says it is time.
How to tell
It sits near a cold window, an outside door or an air-con vent, and looks limp after cold nights or while the vent is running.
The fix
Move it away from the draft to a spot with steadier temperatures.
How to tell
Drooping began after a purchase, move or repot. A move can change light and temperature without disturbing the roots.
The fix
Check moisture and roots before changing anything. Keep its spot and care steady and don’t fertilize while it settles. If roots were damaged, follow this plant’s repotting guidance. Water according to moisture, only when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. Check drainage and do not water just because a calendar says it is time.
How to tell
It wilts in the heat of the afternoon but recovers by evening.
The fix
Shift it out of direct midday sun. A temporary wilt in heat is the plant conserving water.
A money tree that was just moved, bought or repotted often droops for a week or two while it settles. Keep its care steady and do not feed it. A single old leaf yellowing and dropping now and then is normal too.
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