How to Look After a Money Plant: Easy Care Tips

By Priya Sharma · January 24, 2026

A money plant (Epipremnum aureum) thrives with bright, indirect light, watering every 1–2 weeks, and well-draining soil. It’s low-maintenance, adapts to various conditions, and improves indoor air quality.

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 houseplants. Its resilience makes it perfect for new plant owners or those with busy schedules.

Key Benefits of Growing a Money Plant

Requires minimal care compared to other houseplants
Purifies indoor air by removing common toxins like formaldehyde 1
Thrives in low to bright indirect light
Can grow in water or soil
Propagates easily from cuttings

Light Requirements for Optimal Growth

Money plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch leaves, while too little light causes leggy growth and loss of variegation.

Ideal Light Conditions

East- or north-facing windows: best for consistent indirect light
Avoid south-facing windows without sheer curtains
Low-light tolerant but may grow slower and lose golden hues

Watering Your Money Plant Correctly

Overwatering is the top cause of death in money plants. Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry between waterings.

Seasonal Watering Guide

Spring & Summer: Water every 7–10 days
Fall & Winter: Reduce to every 2–3 weeks
Signs of overwatering: yellow leaves, mushy stems
Signs of underwatering: drooping, crispy leaf edges

Soil and Potting Tips

Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works well.

Pot Selection Guidelines

Choose pots with drainage holes
Size: 1–2 inches larger than root ball
Repot every 1–2 years in spring

Fertilizing Schedule and Nutrient Needs

Moderate feeding supports healthy growth. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Season	Fertilizer Type	Frequency	Dilution Rate
Spring	10-10-10 NPK	Every 4 weeks	50%
Summer	10-10-10 NPK	Every 4 weeks	50%
Fall	10-10-10 NPK	Every 6 weeks	50%
Winter	None	N/A	N/A

Table data source:2, 3

The data shows that feeding should align with active growth periods. Fertilizing during dormancy can lead to salt buildup and root damage. Always apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid burning roots.

Pruning and Propagation Techniques

Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess. Prune just above a leaf node using clean scissors.

How to Propagate a Money Plant

Cut a 4–6 inch stem with 3–4 leaves
Remove lower leaves and place in water
Change water weekly; roots appear in 7–14 days
Transfer to soil once roots are 1–2 inches long

Common Problems and Solutions

While hardy, money plants can face issues if care routines are inconsistent.

Frequent Issues and Fixes

Yellow leaves: usually overwatering
Brown tips: low humidity or excess fertilizer
Leggy growth: insufficient light
Pests: watch for spider mites, mealybugs; treat with neem oil

Frequently Asked Questions About Money Plant Care

Can a money plant grow in water forever?

Yes, a money plant can live indefinitely in water if provided with proper nutrients and light. Change the water weekly and add liquid fertilizer monthly at quarter strength to maintain health.

Is the money plant toxic to pets?

Yes, the money plant is toxic to cats and dogs due to calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets 4.

Why are my money plant’s leaves turning yellow?

Yellow leaves typically indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Check soil moisture and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Trim affected leaves and reduce watering frequency.

How fast does a money plant grow?

Under optimal conditions, a money plant can grow 12–18 inches per month during spring and summer. Growth slows significantly in winter months.

Does a money plant need direct sunlight?

No, direct sunlight can burn the leaves. It thrives in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window with filtered light is ideal for maintaining vibrant foliage.