How and When to Repot a Money Tree Plant

In its native habitat, a money tree plant can grow up to 60 feet tall. An indoor money tree sticks to a more manageable 6 to 8 feet, which means you’ll need to repot it a few times to keep it healthy. 

Typically, you will bring home your money tree when it is only about 18 inches tall, so it will take some time to get to 6 feet tall!  

According to lore, money tree plants are thought to bring good luck and prosperity to their owners and make a great gift for those new homeowners, birthdays and those celebrating something like a new job.  

They’re also popular with practitioners of feng shui because they typically sprout five leaves on each stem (five is an important number in feng shui). To keep that luck alive, here are a few tips about when and how to repot a money tree. 

When to repot a money tree plant 

When you bring your money tree home, don’t rush into repotting it. 

Knowing when to repot a money tree is crucial for its health. Key indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes or circling the top of the soil, slowed growth, and yellowing leaves. If you spot these signs, it's time to repot a money tree plant into a new pot.

Spring or early summer is the best time to repot, as your money tree will be in its active growth phase, making it easier for the plant to adapt. Avoid repotting in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant. Generally, repotting every two to three years is recommended, though younger plants might need it annually. Choose a pot only one size larger to prevent overwatering while giving roots room to grow.

Money trees only need about two ice cubes or three tablespoons of water each week. If you notice your soil drying out fairly quickly, it’s time to repot. 

How to repot a money tree plant 

Money trees are easy to grow when they have the right conditions to thrive, meaning a bigger pot, the right potting soil and lots of nutrients. 

To repot a money tree, choose a pot that is only slightly bigger than your root ball, and make sure it has proper drainage holes. When your pot is too big, it will allow the plant to hold onto more water than it needs, which leads to root rot. We recommend you choose a pot about 1-2 inches larger than your current pot, but not any larger. 

If your pot doesn’t have holes, place some charcoal at the bottom of the pot to allow for drainage. 

Choose a potting mix containing peat, pine bark and vermiculite or perlite works. You can also make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite and coarse (or builder's) sand. Fertilize once per month in the spring and summer when the tree is growing. There’s no need to fertilize in the winter. Also, don’t water your money tree the same week you fertilize. 

Carefully remove your tree from the pot, gently untangle any roots, and cut away any mushy roots with a sharp knife. Pour enough potting mix into the pot so that your root ball is 1 inch below the rim. Place the tree on top of the mix and fill in any remaining holes. 

Lastly, water the tree until it drains from the bottom of the pot. 

Money tree care and repotting is simple 

Find more answers to common questions on money tree plant care here or download our Money Tree Care Guide.