How to Propagate a Money Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you’re anything like me, one Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is simply never enough. There is something deeply satisfying about watching those braided trunks and lush, palm-like leaves thrive in a sunny corner. But did you know you can multiply your collection for free?

Propagating a Money Tree is surprisingly straightforward, though it requires a little patience. Whether you want to gift a baby plant to a friend or just make your own indoor jungle a bit denser, I’m going to walk you through the exact process I use in my own apartment.

Why Propagate?

Aside from the obvious benefit of getting free plants, propagation is a great backup plan. If your main plant ever struggles with root rot or pests, having a healthy cutting growing on the windowsill is the ultimate insurance policy. plus, it’s a wonderful way to connect with nature right in your living room.

What You’ll Need

Before we start snipping, gather your tools. Cleanliness is key here to prevent infection.

• Sharp shears or scissors: Sterilize them with rubbing alcohol.
• A healthy Money Tree: Look for vigorous growth.
• A glass jar (for water propagation) or small pot with drainage (for soil propagation).
• Rooting hormone (optional, but speeds things up).
• Potting mix: A blend of peat moss and perlite works best.

Method 1: Water Propagation (My Favorite)

I love water propagation because you can actually see the roots growing. It’s like a science experiment on your windowsill.

1. Select the Cutting: Look for a healthy branch with at least two or three leaf nodes (the bumps where leaves grow). Avoid old, woody stems; semi-hardwood or green stems root best.
2. The Snip: Cut about 4–6 inches of stem just below a node.

3. Prep the Stem: Remove the lower leaves so they aren’t submerged in water, which causes rot. Keep a few leaves at the top to photosynthesize.
4. The Bath: Place the cutting in your jar of room-temperature water. Ensure the node is submerged.
5. Wait and Watch: Place the jar in bright, indirect light. Change the water every few days to keep it oxygenated and clear.

Timeline: You should see tiny white roots emerging in 2–4 weeks. Once they are 1–2 inches long, it’s time to pot them up!

Method 2: Soil Propagation

Some gardeners swear this creates stronger roots from the get-go.

1. Prepare the Cutting: Follow the same steps as above for selecting and cutting.
2. Dip in Hormone: Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. This isn’t strictly necessary, but it drastically increases your success rate.
3. Plant It: Poke a hole in your moist potting mix and gently insert the cutting. Firm the soil around it so it stands upright.
4. Create a Greenhouse: Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag (don’t let it touch the leaves) to lock in humidity.
5. Care: Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy.

Caring for Your New Baby Money Tree

Once your cutting is established in soil, treat it like a mature plant, but be gentle.

• Light: Bright, indirect light is non-negotiable. Direct sun will scorch those tender young leaves.
• Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Pachira aquatica loves humidity, so don’t be afraid to mist it occasionally.
• Braiding: If you propagated multiple cuttings, you can plant them together and gently start braiding their flexible stems once they grow taller!

Propagation teaches us patience. Don’t be discouraged if your first cutting doesn’t make it—gardening is a learning process. Give your cuttings love, light, and time, and soon you’ll have a whole wealth of Money Trees to enjoy.

Happy planting!