People love the money tree because it is popular and easy to take care of. It has a braided trunk and lush green leaves. But when those pretty leaves start to curl down, it means trouble is coming.
When a money tree’s leaves curl down, it’s usually a sign that something is wrong with its growing conditions. The good news is that you can get your tree back to health by figuring out what’s wrong and making a few simple fixes.
In this article, we’ll look at the most common reasons behind money tree leaves curling down, along with tips to revive your plant.
Main Causes of Downward Leaf Curling in Money Trees
There are five main things that can make the leaves of a money tree curl or hang down:
- Underwatering
- Overwatering
- Low humidity
- Temperature stress
- Excessive sunlight
Let’s explore each of these common causes in more detail.
Underwatering
If you don’t water your money tree enough, the leaves will shrink and curl downward as the plant tries to keep as much water as it can. The leaves will begin to cup inward and dry out and turn crisp.
Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the potting mix. If the top few inches are completely dry, it’s time to give your plant a good, deep watering. Money trees like their soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but it should never get bone dry.
Overwatering
Too much water is just as problematic as too little. Excess moisture prevents the roots from getting enough oxygen. It also leads to root rot, which impairs the root system’s ability to take up water and nutrients.
With poor root health, the leaves respond by curling downward. Overwatered money trees may also have yellowing or browning leaves that eventually drop off.
Check for soggy, waterlogged soil and drain any excess water from the saucer. Allow the plant to dry out before watering again, and use fast-draining soil to prevent future issues.
Low Humidity
Money trees prefer warm, humid conditions. Low humidity causes the leaf edges and tips to dry out and curl downward.
This issue is common in winter when indoor air is drier. Increase humidity around your money tree by misting the leaves daily, using a pebble tray, or getting a humidifier.
Temperature Stress
Drastic shifts in temperature can stress a money tree and cause leaf curling. Hot, dry air from heating vents or direct sunlight will rapidly deplete moisture from the leaves, as will icy cold drafts.
Keep your money tree at a consistent temperature between 65-80°F. Move it away from air vents, radiators, drafty windows, and other sources of temperature fluctuations.
Excessive Sunlight
Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves of a money tree, causing them to yellow, dry out and curl downward. Always keep your money tree in bright, indirect light rather than direct sun.
If the sunlight is too intense, add a sheer curtain to help diffuse and filter the light. Rotate the plant periodically so all sides get even light exposure.
How to Fix a Money Tree with Curled Leaves
Once you’ve diagnosed the cause, fixing a money tree with curled leaves is fairly straightforward:
-
For underwatering, give the plant a good, deep drink and water more frequently.
-
For overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Repot in fast-draining soil if needed.
-
Increase humidity for moisture-starved leaves curling from dry air.
-
Move to a spot with a stable temperature between 65-80°F.
-
Filter bright light or move out of direct sun if leaves are curling from too much light.
With consistent care tailored to the specific cause, your money tree’s leaves should soon perk back up. Prune any severely affected leaves. Then focus on prevention by meeting the plant’s water, light, temperature, and humidity needs before leaves curl again.
When to Worry About Curled Leaves
While some leaf curling is normal as the plant responds to minor stresses, take quick action if you notice:
- Severe and sudden leaf curling
- Multiple leaves rapidly curling
- Curling continuing despite corrections
- Curling spreading from old to new leaves
- Excess leaf drop accompanying the curled leaves
These are red flags that something is seriously wrong, likely a disease or pest issue. Aggressive treatment is needed to save the plant. If the money tree continues declining, it may be beyond recovery.
Keep Your Money Tree’s Leaves Looking Lush
With proper care, the money tree makes an easy and resilient houseplant with beautiful leaves. Just be attentive to its needs. If you notice any curled leaves, use that as a helpful cue to reassess your care and make adjustments. With some simple troubleshooting, you’ll get those leaves looking lush again.
Environmental Factors and Leaf Curling
Temperature fluctuations can make your Money Tree throw a fit. Excessive heat can cause leaf curling and wilting, while cold drafts can lead to curling and browning. Your Money Tree is a bit of a Goldilocks when it comes to temperature, preferring a moderate room temperature between 55° and 65°F.
Checking Soil Moisture
First things first, ditch the calendar. Watering on a strict schedule is a no-no. Instead, get your hands dirty and check the soil. If the top inch of soil is dry, its time to water. If its still moist, hold off. Its better to underwater than overwater, especially for beginners.
5 Money tree plant Problems & Solutions
FAQ
How do you fix curling leaves on a Money Tree?
The sweet spot for these green buddies is somewhere between 65°-75° F (18 – 23° C). In the same vein, low humidity can leave your Money Tree parched, causing its leaves to dry out and curl. These plants are humidity junkies, so keep them happy with some extra moisture.
What does an overwatered Money Tree look like?
What does an overwatered Money Tree look like? Typically, those vibrant leaf colors you know and love will suddenly look brown and sad.
How do you fix curling down leaves?
Leaves curling down (tips) If you see this, ease off on the feeding schedule. Usually, this type of downwards curling indicates that the plant has been overfed or overwatered. If the problem persists, consider using a flush product to remove any excess nutrients.
Why are the leaves on my money plant drooping and curling?
Here are some possible reasons: 1. *Underwatering*: Money trees prefer moist soil, but if the soil gets too dry, the leaves may curl up. 2. *Overwatering*: On the other hand, too much water can also cause leaf curl.