Ideal Temperature and Humidity Ranges for Money Tree Plants

Pachira aquatica plants, known commonly as money tree plants, are gorgeous tropical houseplants. Native to warm and humid climates across Central and South America, these plants are popular thanks to their wonderful palm-like leaves. In this article, I’ll look at the ideal temperature and humidity ranges for money tree plants to thrive. 

Ideal Temperature and Humidity Ranges for Money Tree Plants – The Essentials

Money tree plants need moderate humidity levels of approximately 50% for optimal growth and health. These tropical plants also require warm temperatures between 65 and 80ºF. Use humidifiers or pebble trays to increase ambient humidity. Protect money tree plants from cold or dry drafts, as this can lower the temperature and humidity.

Typical Temperature and Humidity Conditions That Money Tree Plants Receive in Their Native Habitats

Money tree plants are native to tropical swamps in Central and South America. In their native habitats, money tree plants receive warm, humid conditions and grow in moist soils. Money tree plants thrive in moderate to high humidity, which can be difficult to replicate indoors. However, money tree plants can be grown outdoors in USDA Zones 10 to 12.

Signs That Your Money Tree Plant is Exposed to the Wrong Temperature and Humidity

Maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels is essential when caring for money tree plants. Here are some signs that your money tree plant isn’t getting the right temperature or humidity:

Curling or Drooping Leaves

If your money tree plant has curling or drooping leaves, it may be too dry or too cold. The foliage may also turn brown, starting at the tips or edges of the leaves. Check if the soil feels dry and water the plant if it does. Increase ambient humidity using a humidifier or a pebble tray to keep the leaves healthy.

Leaves Falling Off

In severe cases, money tree plants can lose all their leaves if exposed to the wrong temperature or humidity. This typically occurs when conditions are too cold or too dry. If you’re growing money tree plants outdoors, this can also occur if your plant is exposed to frost.

Ideal Temperature and Humidity Ranges for Money Tree Plants

Money tree plants require warm temperatures throughout the year. These tropical houseplants grow best when the temperature stays between 65 and 80ºF (18 to 26.5ºC). Money tree plants also need moderate to high humidity levels that remain at or above 50%.

Pachira aquatica plants cannot tolerate cold temperatures, especially when grown outdoors. Money tree plants should also be protected from cold or dry drafts. These drafts typically come from nearby air vents, heaters, and open windows.

In Zones 10 to 12, grow money tree plants in pots outdoors. If the nighttime temperature is due to drop below 40ºF (5ºC), bring your Pachira aquatica plant inside to keep it warm.

How to Increase Humidity in Your Home

There are several ways to increase ambient humidity in your home. Creating a warm, humid environment is vital for tropical houseplants like money tree plants.

The easiest way to increase humidity around money tree plants is to use a humidifier (lots of affordable options via Amazon). This allows you to tailor the humidity to the needs of particular plants. To maximize the effect, group your tropical houseplants around a humidifier so each plant gets what it needs.

If you don’t have a humidifier, then a pebble tray is your next best option. Fill a shallow, watertight tray with small pebbles and add some water. The water level should be below the surface of the pebbles.

Once you’ve prepared the tray, place your money tree plant on top of the pebbles. As the water evaporates, the humidity around your plant will increase. Top up the water regularly, especially during the summer.

Although many people suggest misting your money tree plant daily, this method doesn’t work. The water will evaporate too quickly and won’t increase the humidity much.

Caring for Money Tree Plants in Spring and Summer

Spring and summer is the active growing season for money tree plants. During this period, water your money tree plant whenever the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. You may have to water more frequently during hot, dry summers.

Grow money tree plants in a neutral, well-draining soil mix that can hold a little bit of moisture. You can also fertilize money tree plants once a month during the spring and summer using diluted liquid fertilizer.

Position your money tree plant approximately 3 feet away from an east, south, or southwest-facing window. This provides plenty of bright, indirect light and some shade during the afternoon.

Caring for Money Tree Plants in Winter

Money tree plants will go dormant during the winter. However, these tropical houseplants still require warm temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Use a humidifier to counteract the drier air that is more prevalent during the winter months.

During the winter, water your money tree plant less frequently. This helps keep the plant dormant until next spring. Protecting your money tree plant from cold or dry drafts caused by open windows and heaters is also essential.

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Money Tree Plant Temperature and Humidity FAQs:

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Wrapping Up

Money tree plants are tropical houseplants that need warm temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Maintain stable temperatures between 65 and 80ºF throughout the year. Use a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain ambient humidity at approximately 50%. Keep these beneficial plants away from cold or dry drafts that can decrease ambient humidity.

For more, see our in-depth guide to money tree plant care at home, when and how to repot money tree plants, whether money tree plants are pet friendly, dealing with yellowing leaves on money tree plants, ideal light conditions for money tree plants to thrive, and how to deal with common money tree plant pests and diseases.

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