The Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is a popular indoor plant often associated with good fortune and prosperity. Despite its tropical origins, this plant is highly susceptible to a condition called root rot when kept in consistently wet soil. Root rot occurs when the roots are deprived of oxygen, leading to the decay of the root system, which is a common reason for a Money Tree’s decline. A soil moisture meter provides an objective way to measure the water content deep within the potting medium, helping to prevent the common mistake of overwatering. Using this simple tool ensures you only provide water when the plant truly needs it, maintaining the health of the root system.
Preparing and Inserting the Meter Probe
Before taking a reading, ensure the metal probe of your moisture meter is clean and free of any residual soil from previous uses. This preparation prevents cross-contamination and guarantees the most accurate measurement of the current soil’s electrical conductivity. The proper placement of the probe is important because moisture levels vary throughout the pot. You should aim to insert the probe approximately two-thirds to three-quarters of the way down into the pot to measure the moisture level near the root ball’s core.
The ideal location for insertion is midway between the main braided stem of the Pachira aquatica and the inner rim of the pot. Avoid placing the probe too close to the stem, as this area can be denser and may also risk damaging the plant’s trunk. Insert the probe slowly and vertically into the soil, being careful not to force it if you encounter resistance, which could indicate a dense root section or a blockage. Once the probe is at the desired depth, allow a few moments for the reading to stabilize before you observe the gauge.
Understanding Money Tree Specific Moisture Levels
Moisture meters typically use a scale ranging from 1 to 10, often labeled with zones like “Dry,” “Moist,” and “Wet.” For the Money Tree, the goal is to allow the soil to dry out significantly between thorough waterings to mimic its natural environment’s wet-dry cycle. The preferred range before watering is a low reading, specifically within the “Dry” zone, which typically corresponds to a reading of 1 to 3 on the numerical scale. This approach is necessary because the Pachira aquatica stores water in its swollen trunk base and does not tolerate saturated soil for long periods.
A reading in the 1 to 3 range indicates that roughly 50% to 75% of the soil volume has dried out, providing the necessary aeration for the roots to remain healthy. If the meter reads higher, in the “Moist” zone (e.g., 4 to 7), the soil still holds too much water, and watering should be postponed. Watering while the soil is still too moist can quickly lead to anaerobic conditions where oxygen is depleted, fostering the growth of harmful pathogens that cause root rot. By waiting for the low reading, you protect the root system from the fungal and bacterial issues associated with prolonged saturation.
Action Steps and Troubleshooting Meter Readings
After observing the meter reading, determine the appropriate action for your Pachira aquatica. If the meter registers a low reading (1 to 3), water the plant thoroughly until moisture begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Allowing the water to flow completely through ensures the entire root ball is saturated. This process also helps flush out mineral and fertilizer buildup from the soil. If the reading is 4 or higher, wait several days and test again, confirming the plant does not require moisture at that time.
Troubleshooting Inaccurate Readings
Inaccurate readings can sometimes occur, leading to user frustration and incorrect watering decisions. If the meter consistently shows an extremely high or low reading that seems inconsistent with how recently you watered, check for common interference issues. Highly compacted soil or the presence of mineral salts from fertilizer can disrupt the meter’s electrical conductivity, causing it to display a false reading. Hitting a layer of drainage material, such as rocks or clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot, will also give an artificially low reading.
Meter Maintenance
To maintain the meter’s functionality and accuracy, always remove the probe from the soil immediately after taking a reading. The metal components are sensitive and can corrode if left in contact with moist soil for extended periods. Wipe the probe clean with a soft cloth or paper towel after each use, removing all soil particles before storing the device. If you suspect an inaccurate reading, try testing the soil in two or three different spots around the pot to confirm the general moisture level before deciding to water.