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Why Are My Braided Money Tree's Leaves Turning Yellow?
Braided Money Trees are a beloved, iconic houseplant for good reason: they're low-maintenance, have beautiful, delicate foliage, and are renowned for bringing good luck into the home. But like any plant, a Money Tree can develop yellowing leaves. Luckily, the issue is usually easy to remedy. Here's why your Braided Money Tree's leaves are turning yellow and how to get its foliage back to gorgeous green.
At Léon & George, our master gardeners have spent nearly a decade growing premium plants and helping thousands of plant parents nationwide, so the guidance here comes straight from hands-on experience.
Old Leaves Naturally Shedding
Your Braided Money Tree will shed older foliage over time as it directs energy toward new growth, and those leaves may turn dry and yellow before falling off. This is completely normal. If your plant is otherwise healthy and getting appropriate water and light, natural shedding is the likely cause. Simply trim the yellowed leaves off with clean, sharp scissors.
Overwatering
No houseplant likes being overwatered, and the Braided Money Tree likes to be watered only when its topsoil is dry. Yellowing leaves are the number-one telltale sign of overwatering. Check the soil weekly by lifting a bit of the decorative moss and inserting your finger two inches down. If it's dry, water; if it's still moist, wait. If the soil is very wet, lift the plant (in its nursery pot) out of the ceramic planter, pour out any pooled water, and let the soil dry fully before watering again. If the roots are mushy, trim the rot and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Keeping It Green
Going forward, water only when the top two inches of soil are dry, give your Money Tree bright, indirect light, and ensure its pot drains well. A consistent routine keeps the foliage lush and golden-green.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Money Tree turning yellow?
The two most common causes are natural shedding of old leaves (normal) and overwatering (the bigger concern). Check the soil: if it's soggy, you're overwatering; if the plant is otherwise healthy with just a few yellow leaves, it's likely natural shedding.
How often should I water a Braided Money Tree?
Only when the top two inches of soil are dry, typically every one to two weeks. Always check the soil under the moss before watering rather than following a fixed schedule.
Should I remove yellow leaves from my Money Tree?
Yes. Trim yellowed leaves off with clean, sharp scissors so the plant can focus its energy on healthy new growth. A yellow leaf won't turn green again.
Can an overwatered Money Tree recover?
Yes, if caught early. Let the soil dry out completely, pour out any standing water, and if the roots are mushy, trim the rot and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.