What to Do If a Money Tree Is Overwatered
The money tree, as a common indoor foliage plant, its watering management directly affects its growth condition. When the leaves turn yellow and the soil remains constantly moist, it often indicates that an overwatering issue has occurred. This article will provide systematic solutions and maintenance suggestions for different levels of severity.
One, Mild Waterlogging Treatment Plan
1.1 Emergency Water Control Measures
Immediately stop watering and tilt the pot, puncturing the soil surface with bamboo sticks to create air holes. It is recommended to use the siphon method: place a dry towel on the soil surface to absorb excess water, changing it every 2 hours.
1.2 Environmental Control Techniques
Move the plant to a cool and well-ventilated area, maintaining an ambient temperature of 18-25°C. Turn on a circulating fan to accelerate air circulation, making sure to avoid direct blowing on the leaves. Place a layer of volcanic rocks on the ground to absorb moisture and continuously monitor soil moisture changes.
Two, Severe Waterlogging Rescue Process
2.1 Root Health Diagnosis
First observe the color of the roots after removing the pot; healthy roots are white and elastic. If transparent or browned roots appear, they should be pruned at least 3 cm away from the decayed area.
2.2 Disinfection and Root Promotion Treatment
Soak in a solution of 800 times the concentration of carbendazim for 30 minutes, then switch to a solution of 2000 times the concentration of indole butyric acid to promote root growth. It is recommended to wrap the cut area with sphagnum moss and place it in a perlite matrix to encourage new root growth.
Three, Preventive Maintenance System
3.1 Intelligent Watering Plan
Adopt the "Three-Step Watering Method": first, check if the top 3 cm of the soil is dry, second, check if the leaves are slightly wilted, and third, adjust the frequency according to the season. Maintain 15 days/week in winter and 7-10 days/week in summer.
3.2 Substrate Optimization Configuration
It is recommended to use a mixture of peat soil: perlite: pine bark in a ratio of 5:3:2, with a 3 cm layer of ceramsite at the bottom of the pot for drainage. Replace 1/3 of the substrate every spring to maintain soil breathability.
By establishing a scientific maintenance system, the money tree can recover to a healthy state. It is recommended to use a soil moisture meter, and water only when the value is below 30%. Regularly applying EM bacteria solution can effectively improve the root environment and prevent root rot recurrence.