How to Care for a Money Plant: Complete Guide

By Emma Johnson · January 24, 2026

How to Care for a Money Plant: Quick Summary

Caring for a money plant (Epipremnum aureum) involves providing bright, indirect light, watering when the top inch of soil is dry, and using well-draining potting mix. These hardy plants thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18–29°C) with moderate humidity and benefit from monthly feeding during growing months. Avoid overwatering and direct sunlight to prevent root rot and leaf scorch.

Why the Money Plant Is Ideal for Beginners

The money plant, also known as pothos or devil's ivy, is one of the most forgiving indoor plants. Its resilience makes it perfect for novice gardeners and busy individuals alike. Even in low-light conditions and irregular watering schedules, it continues to grow vigorously.

Key Benefits of Growing a Money Plant

Improves indoor air quality by filtering common pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene 1
Requires minimal maintenance compared to other houseplants
Adaptable to various lighting and humidity conditions
Grows quickly, ideal for hanging baskets or climbing supports
Suitable for homes and offices due to its non-invasive root system

Light Requirements for Optimal Growth

Money plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. While they can survive under fluorescent office lights or in shaded corners, their growth slows significantly.

Signs Your Money Plant Isn’t Getting Enough Light

Leaves become smaller over time
Long gaps develop between leaves (leggy growth)
Variegation fades, turning solid green

Problems Caused by Too Much Sunlight

Leaf edges turn yellow or brown
Leaves appear bleached or scorched
Soil dries out too quickly

Light Condition	Watering Frequency	Growth Rate (inches/month)	Leaf Color & Variegation
Bright Indirect Light	Every 7–10 days	4–6	Pronounced variegation, vibrant green/yellow
Low Light	Every 14–21 days	1–2	Fades to solid green, less contrast
Direct Sunlight	Every 5–7 days	2–3 (with damage)	Scorched tips, pale coloration

Table data source:2, 3

The data shows that bright indirect light maximizes both growth rate and aesthetic appeal. Direct sunlight increases water loss and causes foliage damage despite faster drying soil, while low light drastically reduces vigor and visual interest.

Watering Techniques That Prevent Root Rot

Overwatering is the leading cause of death in money plants. Always check the top 1–2 inches of soil before watering. Use your finger or a moisture meter for accuracy.

Best Practices for Watering

Water thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom
Allow the pot to drain completely—never let it sit in water
Reduce frequency in winter (every 2–3 weeks)
Increase frequency in summer (every 7–10 days)

Choosing the Right Soil and Pot

Use a well-draining potting mix such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. Avoid dense garden soils that retain too much moisture.

Pot Selection Tips

Choose pots with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation
Plastic or glazed ceramic pots retain moisture longer than terracotta
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes
Size up only one pot diameter at a time to avoid soggy soil

Fertilizing for Healthy Foliage

Mony plants don’t require heavy feeding but respond well to balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) diluted to half strength.

Fertilization Schedule

Spring and Summer: Once per month
Fall and Winter: Skip or apply once every 2 months
Flush soil every 3 months to prevent salt buildup

Propagation Made Easy

Propagating money plants is simple and rewarding. Take stem cuttings just below a node and place them in water or moist soil.

Steps to Propagate in Water

Cut a 4–6 inch stem with 3–4 leaves
Remove lower leaves to expose nodes
Place in a clean jar of room-temperature water
Change water weekly to prevent algae
Wait 2–4 weeks for roots to form (1–2 inches long)
Transfer to potting mix once roots are established

Common Pests and Problems

While generally pest-resistant, money plants can attract spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, especially in dry environments.

Symptoms and Solutions

Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage
Brown tips: Low humidity or chemical buildup in water
Dropping leaves: Sudden temperature changes or drafts
Sticky residue: Mealybugs or scale—treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap

About Money Plants: Common Questions

Is a money plant toxic to pets?

Yes, the money plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets.

Can I grow a money plant in water permanently?

Yes, money plants can live indefinitely in water if provided with proper nutrients. Add a few drops of liquid fertilizer monthly and change the water weekly to maintain health.

Why are my money plant’s leaves turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves usually indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and ensure the pot has adequate drainage. Trim affected leaves and reduce watering frequency.

Does a money plant need sunlight?

It needs bright, indirect light for optimal growth but can survive in low-light conditions. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sun, which burns the leaves.