Jooni
Money Tree
1 Species
Species
Fertilizing
During the growing season (spring to fall), fertilize your Money Tree Bonsai every two weeks using a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer. Adjust the nutrient composition seasonally - use higher nitrogen content in spring for leaf growth, a balanced NPK ratio in summer, and reduce nitrogen in autumn. During winter dormancy, decrease fertilization to once monthly with a lower nitrogen formula to promote root development. Dilute all fertilizers to half-strength to avoid root burn. The tree also benefits from trace elements like magnesium, calcium, and sulfur, which can be found in specialized bonsai fertilizers.
Placement
The Money Tree Bonsai requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Place it near a north or east-facing window where it will receive at least 6 hours of filtered light daily. While it's primarily an indoor plant, it can be moved outdoors during summer months when temperatures remain above 54°F (12°C). Maintain temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and humidity levels of 50-70%. Keep the plant away from heating/cooling vents and cold drafts. For increased humidity, place the pot on a humidity tray filled with pebbles and water, or use a humidifier nearby. In areas with extreme temperatures, consider using a heating pad to maintain consistent warmth.
Pruning
Strong pruning should be performed in late winter to promote vigorous spring growth. For regular maintenance, trim back to one or two pairs of leaves throughout the growing season to maintain shape and encourage dense foliage. The Money Tree responds well to defoliation when healthy, which can help reduce leaf size and promote ramification. When wiring branches, use extreme caution as the bark is delicate - remove wire before it begins to bite into the growing branches. Healthy specimens can handle aggressive pruning, but always ensure some foliage remains on each branch to maintain the tree's vigor.
Repotting
Repot your Money Tree Bonsai every 2-3 years in spring, just before the buds begin to swell. Use a well-draining soil mix consisting of 50% organic materials (peat moss, compost, and bark) and 50% inorganic materials (perlite, sand, and vermiculite). When repotting, trim no more than 25% of the root mass to avoid shocking the plant. The soil should neither be too compact nor too loose - aim for a balance that provides both good drainage and moisture retention. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has adequate drainage holes. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture and place the tree in a protected location until new growth appears.
Watering
Water your Money Tree Bonsai thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the growing season (spring and summer), this typically means watering once per week, while in the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce watering to once every two weeks. The exact schedule may vary based on climate, humidity, and soil composition. When watering, ensure thorough saturation until water drains from the bottom of the pot, but never allow the plant to sit in standing water as this can lead to root rot. Maintaining proper humidity through misting or humidity trays is beneficial, but be careful not to overwater as the roots are sensitive to excess moisture.