Most Common Money Tree Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

The Money Tree plant, also known as Pachira aquatica, is a popular houseplant that is believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owners. With its unique braided trunk and shiny green leaves, it adds a touch of elegance to any space. However, like any other plant, the Money Tree is susceptible to pests that can cause damage and hinder its growth. In this article, we will discuss the most common Money Tree plant pests, their identification, and treatment options.

1. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny arachnids that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They thrive in dry conditions and can quickly infest your Money Tree plant if not detected early. Signs of spider mite infestation include yellowing leaves, webbing on the undersides of leaves, and tiny red or brown dots on the leaves.

To treat spider mites, you can start by spraying your Money Tree plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Additionally, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control their population. Repeat the treatment every few days until the infestation is under control.

2. Scale Insects

Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of plants. They feed on plant sap, causing yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a sticky residue called honeydew. The most common types of scale insects that affect Money Trees are soft scales and armored scales.

To treat scale insects on your Money Tree plant, you can gently scrape them off using a soft toothbrush or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, you can use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to suffocate them. Repeat the treatment every two weeks until all scales are gone.

3. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered in a white, cotton-like substance. They cluster together on the stems and leaves of plants, sucking out sap and causing leaf yellowing and stunted growth. In severe infestations, mealybugs can weaken the Money Tree plant and make it susceptible to other diseases.

To treat mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them manually. Alternatively, you can spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or neem oil. Make sure to cover all parts of the plant, including the undersides of leaves, as mealybugs tend to hide there.

4. Aphids

Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that come in various colors, including green, black, and brown. They feed on plant sap and reproduce rapidly, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Aphids can also transmit viral diseases to your Money Tree plant.

To treat aphids, you can use a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the plant. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control their population. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can help keep their numbers in check.

5. Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small flying insects that resemble tiny mosquitoes. They lay their eggs in moist soil, and the larvae feed on organic matter and plant roots. Fungus gnat infestation can lead to yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and root damage.

To treat fungus gnats, you can let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings to discourage their breeding. Sticky traps can be used to catch the adult gnats. You can also apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) granules to the soil to kill the larvae.

6. Thrips

Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on plant sap by puncturing the leaves and sucking out the juices. They cause silver or bronze streaks on the leaves, as well as distorted growth and flower damage. Thrips can also transmit viral diseases to your Money Tree plant.

To treat thrips, you can use a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the plant. Insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can also be applied to control their population. Pruning heavily infested leaves or flowers can help reduce their numbers.

In conclusion, while the Money Tree plant is known for its resilience, it is still susceptible to various pests that can hinder its growth and overall health. Regular inspection and early detection of these common pests are crucial in preventing severe infestations. By implementing appropriate treatment methods, such as manual removal, insecticidal soaps, or natural predators, you can effectively control and eliminate these pests, ensuring a healthy and thriving Money Tree plant in your home.