How to Choose a Good Money Plant at Nurseries

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Finding a robust and healthy money plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum or Pothos, can seem challenging when you’re browsing at the nursery.

With its captivating, heart-shaped leaves and promises of prosperity and fortune, it’s no wonder why people want a money plant at home or in their office.

This guide will walk you through the steps to choose the best money plant, ensuring you bring home a plant that will thrive and possibly bring some extra luck to your life!

Also, Read: Why are the Leaves of my Money Plant Yellow? [Common Concerns & Solutions]

Understanding the Basics of a Money Plant

Before we delve into how to choose the right money plant, it’s essential to understand what this plant is and why it’s a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.

What is a Money Plant?

Money plants are easy-to-care-for houseplants that are believed in many cultures to bring luck, prosperity, and good fortune. This reputation, along with its striking appearance, makes it a favorite among homeowners and office-goers alike.

Essential Qualities to Look For

Choosing a healthy plant at the nursery is crucial because it can dramatically affect the plant’s success when you bring it home. Here are some further details on what to look for in the foliage, stems, and roots of a money plant.

Healthy Foliage

The leaves of the money plant are the most noticeable part of the plant, and it’s where you can see the first signs of good health or potential problems.

  • Color: Money plants should have vibrant green leaves. Varieties can have different patterns, including golden or white variegation. Any yellowing can signal overwatering, while brown leaf tips might suggest a lack of humidity or over-fertilization.
  • Texture: The leaves should feel firm and not floppy. They should be full of moisture and spring back when lightly pressed.
  • Pests: Check for common pests like spider mites, scale, and mealybugs. These can usually be seen on the undersides of leaves or where the leaf joins the stem.

Check the Stems

The stems of the money plant should also signal a healthy plant.

  • Strength: Healthy stems will be robust and able to support the leaves. Weak stems can be a sign of inadequate light or even root problems.
  • Color: The stems should be a vibrant green. Dark spots or unusual discoloration can be a sign of disease or pest infestation.
  • New Growth: Look for signs of new growth, such as budding leaves. This is a good indication that the plant is actively growing and healthy.

Inspect the Root Health

Although it might not be possible to check the roots at the nursery, if you get a chance, it’s worth a look.

  • Color and Texture: Healthy roots are usually white or light tan and should feel firm, not mushy.
  • Growth Pattern: The roots should be evenly distributed and fill the pot without being overcrowded.
  • Odor: Healthy roots should not have a noticeable smell. If the plant smells musty or rotten, it could be a sign of root rot.

By carefully inspecting these key features of the money plant at the nursery, you can ensure you’re bringing home a healthy plant that’s ready to thrive. Always remember that even if the plant has a few minor issues, many of them can be rectified with proper care and attention at home.

Check out: Are Money Plants Safe for Pets in the House?

Final Considerations

After taking into account the health of the plant itself, it’s essential to also consider how the plant will fit into your home and lifestyle. Here are some further details on these final considerations.

Consider Your Space

Before buying any plant, it’s important to consider the space you have available at home or the office.

  • Light: Determine where you will place the plant and the type of light it will receive. Money plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can cause leaf scorch.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Money plants prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C) and moderate humidity. If your home tends to be dry, you may need to provide additional humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier.

Consider the Size

Money plants are vigorous growers and can get quite large with the right conditions.

  • Current Size: Consider whether you have enough space for the plant in its current size. A small tabletop plant may soon need to be a hanging plant or may require a plant stand.
  • Potential Size: Remember that the plant will grow. If the plant is already large at the nursery, make sure you have enough space for it to grow even larger. Alternatively, be prepared to do some pruning to keep the plant at a manageable size.

Maintenance Level

Although money plants are generally easy to care for, they do require some maintenance.

  • Watering: Money plants like their soil to dry out between waterings. You should be prepared to check the soil regularly and water appropriately.
  • Pruning: To keep your money plant looking its best, you’ll need to do some occasional pruning. This can also help control the size of the plant.
  • Repotting: Money plants can grow quite large, and you may need to repot the plant every few years. Ensure you’re comfortable with the idea of repotting if the plant outgrows its current pot.
How to Choose a Good Money Plant at Nurseries
How to Choose a Good Money Plant at Nurseries

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Conclusion

Choosing a good money plant at the nursery doesn’t need to be a daunting task. By taking into account factors like the health of the foliage and stems, the condition of the roots, and the overall growing conditions at the nursery, you can confidently select a money plant that will thrive in your care.

Remember that every plant is unique, and with a little attention and care, your money plant will grow and prosper, just as it might help your prosperity and fortune do the same!

So, next time you find yourself in a nursery, don’t shy away from adding a money plant to your cart. With this guide, you are well equipped to bring home a money plant that will not only add a touch of nature’s beauty to your space but also perhaps bring along a wave of good luck and fortune.

FAQs

1. What if the money plant has yellow leaves?

Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering or inadequate drainage. It could also be a symptom of insufficient light. Make sure your plant’s conditions are suitable for its needs.

2. Can a money plant survive in low light?

While money plants do best in bright, indirect light, they can adapt to lower light conditions. However, their growth may be slower, and the leaf variegation might fade.

3. How often should I water my money plant?

Watering frequency depends on the pot size, the potting medium, and the environment. Typically, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

4. Is it bad to have a money plant at home?

No, it’s not bad to have a money plant at home. In fact, many people believe that money plants bring prosperity and good luck. Aside from this, they’re also known for their air-purifying qualities and can contribute to a healthier home environment.

5. Can money plants live indoors?

Yes, money plants are versatile and can easily adapt to indoor conditions. They make excellent houseplants due to their hardiness and minimal care requirements.