How to Take Care of a Money Plant

By Marcus Williams · January 24, 2026

How to Take Care of a Money Plant: Quick Summary

Properly caring for a money plant (Epipremnum aureum) involves providing bright, indirect light, watering only 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°C–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 Money Plants Are Ideal for Beginners

Money plants, also known as Golden Pothos or Devil’s Ivy, are among the most popular houseplants due to their resilience and low maintenance needs. They adapt well to various indoor environments, making them perfect for both novice and experienced plant owners.

Tolerant of low light conditions
Require minimal watering
Purify indoor air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene 1
Grow vigorously with proper care

Light Requirements for Optimal Growth

What Kind of Light Do Money Plants Need?

Money plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun can burn their leaves, while too little light may cause leggy growth and loss of variegation.

East- or north-facing windows provide ideal light exposure
Variegated varieties need more light to maintain color patterns
Can survive under fluorescent office lighting but grow slower

Watering Techniques to Prevent Root Rot

How Often Should You Water a Money Plant?

Overwatering is the leading cause of death in money plants. Always let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out before watering again.

In summer: Water every 7–10 days
In winter: Reduce to every 2–3 weeks
Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking roots

Best Soil and Pot Selection Tips

A well-draining potting mix is essential. A standard indoor potting soil blended with perlite or orchid bark improves aeration.

Pot Type	Material	Drainage Quality	Best For
Plastic	Polypropylene	Moderate	Hanging baskets, lightweight setups
Ceramic	Glazed clay	Good	Indoor decor, stable temperature retention
Terracotta	Unglazed clay	Excellent	Preventing overwatering, dry climates
Self-Watering	Plastic with reservoir	Controlled	Busy owners, consistent moisture needs

Table data source:2

The table shows that terracotta pots offer superior drainage, making them ideal for preventing root rot—a common issue in money plants. Self-watering pots can be beneficial for frequent travelers but require monitoring to avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing and Seasonal Care Schedule

Feed your money plant monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 NPK). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.

Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid salt buildup
Flush soil every 3–6 months to remove mineral deposits
Yellow leaves may indicate over-fertilization

Propagation: How to Grow New Money Plants

Propagation is simple and best done in spring or early summer. Use stem cuttings with at least one node.

Cut just below a node using sterilized scissors
Place cutting in water or moist soil
Keep in bright, indirect light
Roots develop within 1–3 weeks

Once rooted, transfer to potting mix and care normally. Water propagation allows easy monitoring of root development.

Common Problems and Solutions

Yellow leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage
Brown tips: Indicate low humidity or fluoride/chlorine in tap water
Dropping leaves: Sudden temperature changes or drafts
Leggy growth: Insufficient light; prune and move to brighter spot
Pests: Watch for mealybugs and spider mites; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap

About Money Plant Care: Frequently Asked Questions

Can money plants grow in water permanently?

Yes, money plants can grow indefinitely in water if provided with proper nutrients. Change the water weekly and add liquid fertilizer monthly at quarter strength. Ensure nodes remain submerged while leaves stay above water to prevent rot.

Is a money plant toxic to pets?

Yes, money plants are 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 and children 3.

Why are my money plant’s leaves turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves typically signal overwatering or poor drainage. Check soil moisture and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Also consider underwatering or nutrient deficiency if only older leaves are affected.

How fast does a money plant grow?

Under optimal conditions, money plants can grow 12 inches per month during warm seasons. Indoors, they usually trail 6–10 feet long over several years. Growth slows significantly in low light or cold temperatures.

Do money plants need pruning?

Yes, regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess. Trim back long vines just above a leaf node. Pruning also helps control size and shape, especially in hanging baskets or trellised displays.