These days, we could all use a little extra luck in our lives. And happily, a money tree can set the ball rolling. According to Feng Shui principles, the plant could ensure a prosperous year ahead.

MONEY TREE AND FENG SHUI 

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that seeks to create balance between natural objects and our interior spaces. It divides the world into five main elements – earth, water, fire, metal and wood. According to Chinese theory, balancing these five elements brings good energy to a home. This in turn sustains health, wealth and happiness for all those who live there. 

It goes without saying that Feng Shui considers most plants lucky. But, money trees are in a class of their own. That’s because most trees feature five leaves per stem, just like the five elements. For this reason, they are believed to be the ultimate symbol of prosperity, tailor-made to attract money and success to a home.

Trees typically have five leaves to a stem

What’s more, occasionally a tree may have seven leaves. This is considered the luckiest of all. If you come across a plant with this feature, it’s time to buy a lottery ticket.

MAKING THE BRAID

The leaves may be the luckiest part, still most of us know money tree for its unique, braided stem. Composed of several plants woven together, the trunk lends an aesthetic charm while thickening up what would otherwise be a spindly plant. Feng Shui practitioners also believe the braid ‘traps’ good fortune.

THE LEGEND OF THE MONEY TREE

Centuries ago, a poor man found a money tree deep in the forest. Recognizing its beauty, he brought it home where he decided to grow plants from its seedlings. Over time, his business grew and he became wealthy. This story, and others like it, are believed to be at the root of the lucky tree tradition.

THE LUCKIEST SPOTS

So you’ve bought a money tree, but where should you put it? According to Feng Shui, the best place to attract wealth is in your home’s southeast corner. On the other hand, if it’s your business you’re worried about, put your plant next to the cash register.

Not only does money tree make an excellent indoor plant, but it’s also nearly impossible to kill. It rarely sheds its leaves, and it will grow as large as you’d like, sometimes up to seven feet! Perhaps most importantly, the tree can withstand errors in watering (as in the common practice of over-watering.) This is one tough indoor plant, indeed.

PLANT CARE

Caring for your plant is easy, provided you pay attention to three essential ingredients: water, light and food. Just like in Feng Shui, balancing these key elements properly is the key to making all houseplants thrive. Here’s how to ensure your plant brings good luck to you and your family for years.

Water

Money trees love moisture, so make sure to water your plant regularly, one to two times a week. As with all plants, good drainage is key. Never leave your plant in standing water (a sure recipe for root rot.) Instead, put it on a watering schedule, watering at the soil surface until the soil is soaked and the water runs out from the base of the pot. Let the soil dry out before you water again.

Yellow leaves? This can be a sign of overwatering, exposure to cold temperatures, or that your plant needs to be fed. If your soil is soggy, you’re overwatering. 

Light

To help your plant thrive, place it in indirect light. Rotate the container every few weeks to ensure the plant grows evenly. Avoid direct sunlight, however, which can scorch the leaves.

Food

All indoor houseplants benefit from feeding from time to time. Lightly fertilize your tree a few times a year with a water-soluble fertilizer. Remember, all pot-bound plants depend on you to provide everything they need to thrive.