How to care for a money houseplant. Money tree - home care, plant flowering

22.05.2019

If you have already purchased this plant, information on how to properly care for the money tree at home will be very important. It is this topic that our article is devoted to.

Money Tree fat woman or crassula is known to almost everyone, even beginner growers. They love him for unpretentiousness in care and spectacular rounded leaves resembling coins. That is why its name came about, although different peoples This plant can be called differently.

Folk omens have long given the fat woman the status of a keeper family well-being, so it is very important that your amulet is always healthy and branchy.

The plant belongs to the succulent genus, native to hot Africa. Fleshy leaves with a dense peel perfectly retain moisture, and the flowering period is quite long. At home, it is almost impossible to see how a money tree blooms, because for this the plant must be quite old, and similar climatic conditions for favorable reproduction in an apartment, it is rather difficult to provide.

More than 300 species of this plant have been studied in the wild, but only a few of them are recognized as the most favorable for growing in "captivity". Despite the name, a money tree can have an ampelous, ground cover, bush and, of course, a tree shape. To correctly determine the "pedigree" of your pet, the following information is provided.

The most popular types of money tree (indoor fat woman):

Tree-like form of a fat woman grows up to one and a half meters suitable conditions. It lends itself well to crown formation, therefore it gives ample opportunities for decorating rooms. After about 10 years of age, it may bloom with small flowers of white or pink color.
Fat Cooper refers to the ground cover variety of the plant. It has a grassy appearance, thanks to thin shoots that curl as they grow. Flowering usually occurs in summer. Small inflorescences have a pleasant smell and a pale pink color of the petals.
Crassula spatulate interesting unusual type of shoots. They are quadrilateral and aerial roots- shoots. The plant is very demanding on watering, which should be plentiful and regular.
Crassula lycopsus refers to varieties of shrubs. The leaves are pointed, resembling thorns, located directly on the stem. The plant often has ampelous view, suitable for creating homemade topinaria. Flowering occurs almost imperceptibly, the inflorescences do not differ in decorative value, while the money tree propagates with the help of cuttings quite simply.
Purslane or oval fat woman grows up to a meter in height, has neat thick leaves of a rounded shape. It blooms at home quite rarely, with small pale pink flowers.

In addition to the above, there are several more species suitable for growing in our conditions. It is a little problematic to acquire such beauty, especially since there is often confusion with the names. Only a specialist can accurately distinguish a tree-like fat woman from an oval one, let alone other, much less common plants.

How to grow a money tree

Of course, acquiring this unpretentious plant, anyone will try to learn more about the rules of care and maintenance. Despite the fact that succulents are tropical plants, they also grow willingly in our climate, but the basic nuances of successful cultivation should also be observed.

How to propagate a money tree

Popular beliefs advise to grow a plant on your own to create such a family amulet. To do this, you need to buy or ask friends for a process. You can cut a money tree throughout the year, without focusing on the season. How to plant a shoot of a money tree is described below, now there is some information about growing this plant from seeds.

This process, of course, is much more laborious and not always with favorable forecasts. The main difficulty is to acquire the seeds of the money tree, as well as to properly root them. At home, the plant blooms quite rarely, and there is no guarantee that the seeds collected from such a flower will be able to mature and germinate. It is much easier to order or purchase them in specialized stores.

Propagation of a money tree from seeds is a very long process. You must first leave them to swell in warm and clean water. Planting takes place no earlier than a day later, after which the soil is moistened with a spray gun and covered with glass to create the necessary humidity and temperature. The first shoots can be expected in about 10-14 days, after which they actively reach for the light. At this stage, it is very important to ensure comfortable temperature(about 18-22 degrees), as well as timely watering. Excessive waterlogging can kill the plant, so only the root area needs to be watered.

When the money tree reaches about 3-5 centimeters in height, it can be transplanted into a separate container.

How to plant a money tree

The best option is to pick up a process of sufficient length (about 5-8 cm). It will take root well in the right soil, which is desirable to acquire taking into account the needs of this plant variety. If for some reason you did not find a mixture for cactus and succulent plants on sale, you can make it yourself.

Land for planting a money tree consists of the following components:

One part of soddy soil.
One part sand.
Three pieces of leafy soil.

At the bottom of the pot, be sure to lay drainage from expanded clay or brick chips. Wood ash, humus and mineral complexes are suitable for fertilizer. In order for the plant to take root better, the process needs to be “withered” a little.

To do this, it is left without water in a dark place, and after a day - two are planted in the ground. You can also root the cuttings in water, to which a little charcoal was previously added for disinfection. The first roots will appear in a week and a half. You can plant a plant with a root length of two centimeters.

An equally popular way is to try to germinate a leaf. To do this, you need to choose a sufficiently "adult" and large copy. It is possible to plant a money tree from a leaf correctly using the same technology, but when planting, it is necessary to make a small hole under the water in order to exclude its deficiency.

The pot for the plant should be spacious enough, because its size in adulthood is also significant. Drainage is laid at the bottom, and the process itself is planted exactly in the middle. If several seedlings are planned to be placed in one container, they must be evenly distributed over the area of \u200b\u200bthe pot.

How to water and feed a money tree

The money tree is a succulent plant, which means it tolerates drought quite well. Fleshy leaves are able to accumulate a fairly significant supply of water, but regular watering for the health of the plant is still necessary and very important.

Do you want something interesting?

Water can be taken rain, filtered and even settled tap water. Better to refill regularly a large number of moisture near the plant to prevent root rot.

In the hot season, the number of waterings must be increased, in winter - as the soil dries up. The plant does not need spraying, it is enough to regularly wipe the leaves from dust.

The optimal location of the flower pot is a window sill without direct sunlight. Despite the hot homeland, the plant is sensitive to high temperatures and sunburn. To determine how to water a money tree, you can observe the condition of the soil. It should not dry out completely, but too much moisture will be inopportune.

Fertilizers must be applied to the soil from April to September. Convenient schedule - about once a month. For this, special complexes for cacti are used, which must be applied after watering. In the cold months of the year, the needs of the plant decrease, therefore, having changed the dosage by about half, they adhere to the same schedule.

How to prune a money tree

You can start to form a dense crown early enough. To do this, you need to regularly pinch the plant about every three to four leaves, leaving the central trunk of sufficient length. At this point, a branching is formed in the future, which also needs to be subsequently pinched. It is advisable to sprinkle the pruning sites with wood ash to prevent diseases. Instead, you can take regular activated charcoal.

If you want to grow a tree-like form, it is advisable to use the following tips. First of all, it is necessary to tear off all the side shoots until the sprout reaches a sufficient height (25-30 cm). After that, pinch the top to start growing side shoots. They must be cut off every three or four leaves so that the crown of the future tree is thick and lush.

How to transplant a money tree

The need to change the place of "residence" occurs, as a rule, two to three years after planting and rooting. At the same time, you can see that the roots have confused the clod of earth, they do not have enough space, and the plant itself has slowed down or stopped growing. To avoid this, you need to properly transplant the money tree. For this, purchased soil mixture is best suited, as well as prepared independently according to the above recipe.

You can also transplant a money tree at home into the ground, but for this you need to choose a sufficiently lit place, but without direct sunlight. The plant feels great outdoors, so a balcony or loggia is perfect for apartment conditions.

The main thing is to return the money tree to a warm house before the cold snap. You can often find unusual uses for this plant. Some varieties of room fat women are tiny in size, so such a money tree can be planted in a topiary.

The money tree is also very demanding on temperature. environment. If it is above 22 degrees, the plant may not feel well. The fat girl does not like sudden changes. It is best to immediately determine her permanent place on the windowsill and not rearrange it.

The healing properties of the money tree

Despite the wide distribution of this plant, few people know about its useful abilities. Like its distant "relative" aloe, the money tree flower contains a whole range of unique substances that can be used in the treatment of various kinds of diseases.

How can a fat woman be used in medicine:

Treatment of dermatological problems: psoriasis, eczema, herpes and lichen. For this, rubbing and lotions with the juice of this plant are used.
An infusion of the leaves of the fat woman is excellent for kidney diseases.
Eating on an empty stomach two leaves of the money tree, you can achieve healing of the ulcer, as well as get rid of gastritis and colitis of varying degrees and locations.
An alcohol solution of money tree leaves helps to heal and disinfect wounds, and is also used as a gargle.
A cotton swab moistened with plant juice is an excellent remedy for hemorrhoidal fissures.

There are also contraindications for treatment with a money tree. First of all, it is an individual intolerance. Do not violate the dosage and abuse such treatment. In this case, many side effects and allergies can occur.

The best option is to consult your doctor before taking it. If such therapy is not contraindicated for you, it will help you choose the concentration and regimen.

Why do the leaves of the money tree fall?

One of the most common problems that beginner growers face is leaf fall. The flower loses its attractiveness, becoming shabby and ugly. There can be several reasons for this condition, as well as solutions to this problem. The most popular events are listed below.

What to do if the leaves of the money tree fall:

With an excess of moisture, such a reaction can be just that. In this case, the plant is removed along with the soil. A lump with nearby roots is dried naturally, after which it returns to its place. In the future, it is necessary to reduce the frequency and volume of watering.
With a lack of nutrients, the fatty can also shed its leaves. To eliminate such a risk group, it is necessary to feed the plant monthly. In winter and autumn, the proportions decrease until the plant comes out of dormancy.
Sharp fall of leaves can occur when watering the plant cold water or in general freezing. In this case, it is necessary to organize the maximum care and concern for the “victim”. Usually the plant quickly moves away from such stresses, the main thing is to prevent the appearance of new ones.

The houseplant "money" tree is a frequent guest in our house. This succulent plant is able to please the owners with longevity, remaining attractive even in the most difficult conditions. Having provided him with the necessary comfort, as well as taking care of pruning and transplanting in time, you can form a beautiful miniature tree.

Unpretentiousness in care and a spectacular appearance will be a pleasant surprise for your household, in addition, according to legend, this plant attracts prosperity and good luck, and also contributes to family happiness and love. That is why such a talisman is desirable in every home, and our article will tell you how to care for a money tree.

Among flower growers, especially beginners, unpretentious indoor plants are very popular, which do not require constant attention, but at the same time are able to have a beautiful decorative look. One of these flowers is the money tree - caring for it at home is as simple and not complicated as possible, but in response, the bush will please with a lush green crown and active growth. What is this plant, and how to grow it, we will talk about this in detail today.

Botanical characteristic

The money tree represents the Crassula family of the genus Crassula and came to us from distant Africa. The hot climate in the homeland of the plant also determines the nature of the succulent: in conditions of high temperature and rare precipitation, it is forced to accumulate moisture in the shoots and leaves in order to provide itself with life-giving force in the intervals between rains. And for this, both shoots and leaf plates simply have to be thick and fleshy.

The money tree has other names, among them: crassula, dollar or monkey tree.

A fat woman or a money tree can have an extremely diverse shape. There are both tiny specimens a few centimeters high, and real trees up to 4 m tall. The main group of crassula is represented by perennials, but annual species also have a place to be in nature. Most plants have succulent shoots and leaf plates of the same structure, painted in green color with a blue, yellow or red tint and a matte coating. In tree-like specimens, the stems are lignified, but both groups are characterized by thickened powerful shoots, while the central trunk becomes covered with a grayish bark over time.

The bush has good branching ability and over time grows a lush rounded crown, but the root system is surprisingly small. Short roots are hidden under the soil layer and often they simply cannot withstand the total mass of the plant, and it collapses, especially if planted in too loose soil.

The plant is called a money tree due to the shape of the leaves in some species - they look like round coins.

The lush crown of the fat woman is very decorative in itself, but when bunches of white semi-umbellate inflorescences bloom on it, the flowering money tree becomes a decoration of the house.
It is a pity that it is rare to see such an unsurpassed spectacle, especially at home. And in nature, plants bloom only at the age of 11 with the advent of autumn or before winter.

Popular types

The genus Crassula is very numerous and includes up to 5 hundred succulents. There are among them both cultures growing in the form of a tree, and creeping plants, and even moisture-loving species that prefer to live in aquarium conditions. As an indoor flower, a tree-like fat woman is most often grown - a lush, well-branched bush with thick, bare shoots and fleshy, flat, egg-shaped leaves. The leaves may be covered with a dull coating or have a bluish tint.

As home flower crops, there are also such varieties of the money tree, the photo of which is presented in the description:

Landing features

In order for the bush to actively build up the aerial part, you need to know how to properly plant a money tree, as well as what kind of soil and pot it needs to pick up. The choice of a pot is determined by the characteristics of the root system and the plant itself.
Lightweight plastic containers are not suitable for this flower, since the mass of the aerial part is several times greater than the “power” of the roots. The flowerpot must be heavy and stable enough, otherwise, under the weight of the crassula, it will turn over or the flower will be uprooted.

Preference should be given to wide bowls - in deep "cauldrons" the root will also go deep, as a result of which the trunk will stretch and weaken.

Particular attention should be paid to the choice of soil, giving preference to a moisture- and breathable substrate with a fairly “heavy” structure, because a loose soil mixture will not be able to keep an adult specimen in an upright position. The best option would be a purchased mixture for succulents or an equivalent ratio of such components:

sod land;
leaf land;
sand.

To grow a large bush, the fat woman should be planted singly.

Every 2-3 years, the growing plant needs to be transplanted by transshipment, changing the flowerpot and the ground. It is imperative to lay drainage at the bottom of the container, and if the fat woman has grown very long roots during this time, they can be cut.

Growing conditions

Caring for a money tree at home initially consists in creating conditions for the flower that are as close as possible to the natural habitat of the plant. These include:

Lighting. So that the bush does not stretch out, and its shoots do not fall, it is necessary to put the pot on the southeast window sill. There, the fat woman and the light will be enough, and direct rays will not be able to damage him. South windows in summer time it is better to avoid it, because the foliage can wither and fall from an excess of sun, but in winter this is the most suitable place.
Air temperature. For the summer, a flowerpot would be nice to take out on summer veranda- the money tree flower loves fresh air very much. With the advent of winter, the plant should choose a cool room with a temperature not higher than 15 degrees Celsius. When wintering in a warmer room, the bush will not disappear, but will partially shed its leaves.
Air humidity. As a tropical plant, the fat woman does not need high humidity and feels good in dry air. To remove dust, the leaves can either be sprayed or wiped with a damp sponge.

Money tree - a flower with a character that requires constancy. It is able to grow in almost any conditions, but does not tolerate permutations.

Watering and fertilizing regimen

It is not difficult to grow a money tree at home, and caring for it, first of all, consists in observing the watering regime. Like all succulents, the flower is very sensitive to stagnation of water in the soil, so it is important to prevent overflow. The consequences of missing moisture will be less deplorable: the leaves will go limp, the branches will sag, but after watering everything will rise together. But if the bush is regularly poured, it will simply rot.

The frequency of watering also varies depending on the time of year:

in spring, the flower is quite enough abundant soil moisture once a week;
in summer, when it is hot, you will need more frequent watering - up to 2 times a week;
in winter, especially when the fat woman is kept cool, it should be watered no more than once every three weeks.

It is impossible to water the money tree at home with cold water, otherwise it will shed its foliage.

As for dressings, all the nutrients necessary for the flower are contained in (in liquid form). Again, there is no need to overdo it: the maximum number of dressings falls on the summer (twice a month), in spring and autumn they are halved, and in winter they are completely canceled.

It is necessary to fertilize the fat woman on wet ground (after watering), in half the concentration indicated on the package.

How to form a lush crown?

The money tree itself branches well, but with the help of pruning, you can make the bush even more branched and rounded. It is necessary to start from "childhood", when the young plant reaches no more than 20 cm in height.

Using scissors or just nails, you need to remove the topmost leaves. Very soon, new shoots will form at this place. In the future, this procedure is carried out on all branches that grow straight and are in no hurry to branch, giving the bush the desired shape.

Reproduction methods

At home, the money tree is most often propagated by cuttings or leaves. They are rooted in water with further transplantation into a nutrient soil mixture or immediately in the ground.

Fans of experimenting can try to propagate the fat woman in seedlings. To do this, the seeds are sown in a mixture of sand and earth in proportions of 1: 2 and kept under glass until germination in a bright place. The grown seedlings dive into small pots.

flower as a healer

O magic power Crassula attract wealth and success to the owner, everyone has heard, but in addition to this, the money tree also has healing properties. First of all, it cleans the air well harmful substances acting as a filter. In addition, fatty juice:

wipe the joints with arthritis;
gargle with sore throat or inflamed gums;
make lotions for cuts, bruises or wounds.

The therapeutic use of the money tree is exclusively external. It is impossible to ingest juice or medicines prepared on the basis of leaves or shoots, since they contain arsenic in a dangerous concentration for humans.

Problematic moments when growing crassula

In general, a fat woman is a flower with good immunity and more rarely, but unpleasant situations still happen to her. Most of them are associated with improper care and most often this is the fall of the leaves of the money tree. If you notice that every day there are fallen leaves under a bush on the windowsill, the cause of leaf fall should be looked for in the following:

draft;
watering with cold water;
missed or poor watering;
too high room temperature.

With an excess of moisture, the roots and stem of the plant rot.

Of the pests, Crassula can be attacked by:

In general, caring for a money tree at home does not contain difficulties. If you have the desire and a little free time, you can grow a lush bush from a small leaf in a short time, and with special luck, you can even see its delicate flowering.

Winter money tree care - video

The conditions of the modern metropolis do not often allow you to get out into nature. By surrounding yourself with house trees, you can create an indoor-type oasis. They will become an excellent decoration of the home and create comfortable conditions in it.

Home living trees, unlike other indoor flowers, have a central trunk and branches. Some of them bloom at home, in other versions - the tree has a lush crown. Thanks to pruning, they can be shaped. The most popular is to create Bonsai from them. Pets perform a decorative function and, in addition, freshen the air.

They are used for landscaping apartments, offices and commercial premises. Large, beautifully flowering, and deciduous trees can be of very different shapes. They also differ in the shape and color of the leaves. Features of the most popular types that grow in flower pots will turn the room into a flowering garden.

Unique in its kind. At home, it blooms and pleases all year round with its greenery. In place of inflorescences, berries are later formed. The leaves are dense, shiny and embossed.

At proper care his high can reach 1 meter. The crown is formed by pinching. It tolerates drought well, it is recommended to wipe the leaves with a damp cloth.

In winter, it is necessary to provide additional lighting.

Often found in apartments indoor flower. mature tree quite tall and spreading. The leaves are large, with symmetrical slits. The color of the leaves is bright green, shiny. The monstera leaf is dark green and shiny. In the lower part, aerial roots form over time. You do not need to remove them, they provide the plant with support and additional nutrition. Blooms rarely, white inflorescences.

Monstera is suitable for large rooms. Height can reach 3-5 meters.

Bonsai

The spread of indoor tree in a flat pot got its existence in China, later in the West and Japan. The creation of Bonsai has become a whole science. A miniature copy of a tree with a powerful crown has its own characteristics.

bonsai is considered houseplant with a strong trunk and a well-developed root system;
branches should have a clear outline, they may have a curved shape;
the trunk should not be hidden in the foliage; its ratio is minimized;
the pot is used flat, often clay, inconspicuous color.

Florists will categorize bonsai according to size and shape. Care requires some knowledge of the characteristics of this variety.

So that the branches of the bonsai do not stretch towards the sun in one direction, it is recommended to unfold the pot.

Lemon

An exotic houseplant is not only beautiful, but also useful. With the right care bears fruit all year round. There are many varieties, among themselves they differ in tree height, leaf shape and fruits.

Yield is maintained up to 20 years. The leaves are bright green, dense. They are used to make tea. Thanks to its unique features, lemon helps to purify the air.

He is afraid of drafts, if he is comfortable in one place, it is unnecessary to rearrange it once again.

Chinese rose

beautiful blooming rose can grow to gigantic sizes. The trunk is woody, the older the flower, the stronger the crown grows. The shape can be corrected by cropping. It blooms in large inflorescences of scarlet color. Scientifically called hibiscus.

Suitable for indoor and greenhouse cultivation. Propagated by seeds, division of the bush, layering and cuttings. It is not whimsical in care, it will decorate any room with its presence.

ficus

An evergreen tree can be found in warm Asian countries. We have it. The leaves are dense, oval in shape. The color of the leaves is green or bicolor.

Blooms rarely unsightly inflorescences. Florists use ficuses different types to create bonsai. The height of an adult flower can be 3-5 meters. Propagated by cuttings. It is recommended to fertilize 2-3 times a month. With improper care, leaves can completely fall off.

Ficuses do not tolerate dry air and drought, they need regular watering and daily spraying of leaves.

In ancient times, laurel was considered sacred. Today Europeans forever green plant used in the design landscape designs. A noble tree with fragrant leaves, often grown in kitchens for the purpose of using as a condiment.

leaves are dark green dense;
the bush grows slowly, is not afraid of pruning;
laurel loves bright and spacious rooms;
after flowering, seeds are formed at the site of inflorescences.

An unpretentious indoor flower will not cause much trouble, it will become a worthy decoration of the interior. For the summer period, pots with laurel can be taken out to the balcony or loggia.

Mandarin

A sunny and elegant tangerine tree will become a bright element of the landscape design of the premises. The plant secretes special substances that enrich the air.

Mandarin repels insects and gives good yields of fragrant fruits. On the windows you can often find dwarf varieties of mandarin. The leaves are dense, green. The trunk is woody. It blooms with small flowers, in place of which green tangerines are formed. When ripe, the fruits turn orange.

The variety is susceptible to diseases and pests. The condition of the flower should be monitored regularly. It is impossible to spray with poisons; it is better to use an aqueous solution with laundry soap.

bottled

A tree that resembles a bottle in the shape of a trunk can be found in nature in Mexico and the USA. Scientific name - nolina,. The leaves are palm-shaped, thin with pointed edges. Grow in small pots.

The plant loves the sun, is not afraid of drought, but still requires regular spraying. It grows slowly to get a large trunk, it will take 6-8 years old. If you water it abundantly, the trunk will quickly stretch upwards, so you need to organize drought conditions.

Serpentine

A real miracle, rarely does anyone manage to properly grow it to enjoy flowering. Flowering season is coming after 5-6 years. Up to this point, the plant resembles a snake. Later rushes up, forms a tree. The buds look bewitchingly beautiful, but at the same time emit a nauseating odor. Those who decide to place it in a residential area must take this fact into account.

Growing compact trees at home, do not forget - this is painstaking work. It will take several years to get an original bonsai. You can buy a ready-made tree or get hold of cuttings from friends. There are no special difficulties in care, you just need to take into account their features.

Crassula (Crassula) is a plant from the Crassula family.

Under natural conditions, more than 300 species of this plant grow.

They are distinguished by a variety of forms: ampelous, ground cover, bush, tree-like.

In indoor floriculture, this succulent has become popular for its unpretentiousness and spectacular appearance.

The following species are cultivated at home:

Crassula tree known as the "money tree". Subject to necessary conditions it can be grown up to 1.5 m height. After reaching the age of 10, it may bloom with white or pinkish flowers.

Crassula spatulate has tetrahedral creeping stems on which aerial roots grow. This species needs regular watering all year round.

Fat Cooper- a low-growing grassy type of crassula with thin shoots forming clumps. Flowering occurs in summer. Pale pink flowers exude a sweet scent.

Crassula lycopsform (mucous) is a highly branched subshrub. The decorativeness of the plant is given by its small pointed leaves, located on the stem in the form of a tile. The shoots of young plants are erect, and with age they lie down. This Crassula blooms with solitary inconspicuous flowers of pale yellow color. It grows very quickly, easily propagated by cuttings.

Purslane Crassula known as the fat woman oval or ovoid. It can grow up to 1 m. It blooms with pink or white flowers.

Although Crassula is not demanding for care, nevertheless, knowledge of its biological characteristics will create conditions suitable for its cultivation.

Money tree - home care: reproduction

The money tree at home is propagated by cuttings and seeds. The vegetative method is the easiest and most acceptable option. You can cut a fat woman all year round. To do this, choose a mature shoot or large leaf, separate it from the mother plant and leave it to dry for 1-2 days.

money tree cuttings

Root cuttings in water or soil. Charcoal is first added to a container of water for disinfection. The stalk will take root within 14-20 days.

When rooting in the ground, drainage is placed in the prepared pot and a substrate from garden soil and sand is added in equal proportions. The planted stalk is covered with a jar or glass. Every day it is necessary to air the seedling. Water it in small portions or spray the ground with a spray bottle as it dries.

Reproduction by seeds rarely used at home due to high costs time and painstaking care. This process is done like this:

The dishes for sowing are selected clay without glaze, which prevents air and moisture exchange;

The soil for sowing is made up of leaf or garden soil and sand in equal proportions;

Crassula seeds are small. After sowing, they are sprinkled with sand;

A bowl with seedlings is covered with a film or glass;

Plantings are aired daily (the soil should be moist, but not wet);

The emerging shoots dive and put in a well-advised place;

When the seedlings grow to 5-7 cm, they are transplanted into separate pots.

Crassula transplant

The fat woman is transplanted as the clod of earth is braided with roots once every two to three years. Doing so better in spring transfer method. Pots should be used wide and stable, since the ground part of the plant is quite massive and heavy, and the root system is weak. Be sure to make drainage at the bottom of the new pot to prevent root rot.

Money tree - home care: watering, fertilizing, lighting, humidity

Location and lighting

Crassula, like all succulents, needs bright and diffused light. To do this, the plant is placed on the southwestern and southeastern windows. In winter, on the contrary, they rearrange the crassula pots to the south side or use additional lighting, otherwise, with a lack of light, the plant will stretch and the leaves will become smaller. In summer, she will enjoy the fresh air on the balcony or terrace. In this case, it is necessary to provide shading from direct sunlight.

pots

The root system of the money tree is small and sensitive to waterlogging, and the crown is quite weighty due to the accumulation of moisture in the leaves. Pots should be selected based on these characteristics of the plant. For the stability of the fat woman, the containers for planting should be wide, shallow, heavy with drain holes. Mandatory drainage of expanded clay or clay shards.

Temperature regime

In spring and summer, the optimum temperature for a fat woman will be + 19-25ºС. In autumn and winter, the plant will be comfortable at + 14-17ºС. Therefore, it must be rearranged away from the central heating batteries. Maintaining this regime helps stimulate the flowering of the money tree.

Air humidity

Fat women are not demanding on air humidity, but its sharp fluctuations affect the appearance of the plant: the leaves turn yellow and begin to fall off. Crassula is sprayed in hot summer days for hygienic purposes - wash off dust. In other seasons, you can wipe the leaves with a soft, damp sponge.

Watering

The money tree easily tolerates rare watering due to the moisture reserves in the fleshy leaves. Excessive soil moisture leads to rotting of the root system. In the spring-summer season, Crassula is watered at intervals of once every 3-5 days. In this case, the earthen lump should dry up to half. In winter, 1-2 single watering per month is sufficient. Water for irrigation is used at room temperature.

The soil

Crassula can grow even in nutrient-poor soil. For its cultivation, a ready-made mixture for cacti and succulents, which can be purchased at a flower shop, is best suited. If this is not possible, then it is made from soddy or leafy soil, sand and humus (4:1:1).

top dressing

Crassula is fed monthly in spring and summer with fertilizers for cacti. Do this only after watering, otherwise it is likely to burn the roots. In the cold season, top dressing is reduced to half the dose recommended in the instructions.

Trimming and pinching

In order for the money tree to please with its lush crown, it is necessary to pinch the shoots. This procedure is quite simple: 3-4 pairs of leaves are left on the stem of a young fat woman, the rest is pinched off. Branching will begin at this point later.

If pruning is carried out on an adult overgrown plant, then the cuts are made straight along the node (in the place where the leaves grow) and treated with charcoal. For uniform development of the crown, the pot with the fat woman is turned from time to time.

Money tree - home care: why does it not grow and die?

With proper care, the fat woman is rarely affected by pests. Among them, the most frequent uninvited guests Crassula are scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids.

Shield defeat characterized by the appearance of yellow-brown spots on the leaves. The affected areas are wiped with an alcohol solution at intervals of 5-7 days.

When spider mite the leaves first turn yellow, then a brown crust forms on them. The insects themselves are noticeable - these are small reddish-brown spiders. To combat them, plants are sprayed with soapy water, and in case of severe damage with insecticides (Fitoverm, Fufanon, Karate).

mealybug washed off the leaves with a sponge dipped in garlic tincture or alcohol. If the roots are damaged, then the plant is shed with Mospilan, Fitoverm or Vermitek.

Wrong care brings much more harm to the money tree.

If the money tree stopped growing, then you need to find out the reason: inspect the root system for the presence of rot, pests. When growth stops young plant, it is transplanted into a small pot: until the entire earthen ball is mastered by the roots, the ground part of the fat woman will not grow.

lack of lighting causes the plant to stretch, its stems are bent, the leaves become smaller and fall off.

If the fat girl is worth under direct sunlight, then leaf burns are inevitable - they turn black.

Excessive soil moisture- one of the most dangerous factors in the death of crassula. At the same time, the leaves change their color (darken), become lethargic, fall off. Root rot begins, the signs of which are the appearance of a white-pink coating on the root collar and softening of the trunk. In this case, it is necessary to examine the root system of the plant. If it is not completely damaged and healthy roots are preserved, then the plant is transplanted into a new pot. At the same time, the rotten parts are removed to healthy tissue and the wounds are sprinkled with charcoal. If the plant is still withering early, then the only option is to cut the cuttings and grow the plants again.

Moisture deficiency and prolonged heat also cause leaf fall of the fat woman. At the same time, the leaves wrinkle and dry, become flat, brown spots appear on them. When the correct watering regime is resumed, the plant is restored.

Are the leaves turning red or have a clear red border on them? Such a phenomenon, with the exception of varietal characteristics, is typical for long-term and bright lighting (often observed in spring). In order for the plant to turn green again, it must be removed away from the window.

Crassula not blooming? For home plant this is normal. At indoor cultivation the fat woman rarely pleases with its flowering. To do this, she must be at least 10 years old. It is also necessary to provide a winter dormant period with a decrease in air temperature and watering limitation. Some flower growers, using the well-known fact that with the threat of death, the plant begins to multiply intensively, to stimulate flowering, they arrange stressful conditions for it (unsuitable air temperature, prolonged lack of watering).

Then you need to know how to care for the plant. The scientific name is Crassula or Crassula.

Lighting. It is better to place the money tree in a bright place. Windows that are located in the east, south or southwest are perfect. In summer, you can take out open air or sunny balcony.

Air temperature. The money tree is a thermophilic plant. He needs an air temperature of 20-25 ° C. In autumn and winter, they grow remarkably well in fairly cool rooms with a temperature of 10-15 ° C, as well as in ordinary apartments with heating.

How to warm your skin in autumn?

Air humidity. Not really important. The money tree adapts well to room conditions.

Watering. There shouldn't be too much moisture. Be especially careful not to get water on the leaves. In autumn and winter, the money tree is watered only when the soil is almost dry. In summer it is slightly humid. If you go on vacation, the fat woman will calmly wait for you in a cool room without watering.

The soil. The money tree does not require too much. It has a shallow root. You can use soddy soil with sand or a mixture of soddy, leafy, humus earth and sand in equal parts. Add a piece of coal to the ground.

top dressing. In cold weather, the plant can not be fertilized at all or once a month watered with a weak solution of fertilizer (half strength or less).

Transfer. The money tree is transplanted every two years or even less often. It grows rather slowly. If you need to repot the plant, take a wide container and use props.

How to make natural shampoo at home?

reproduction. Crassula propagates by leaf and stem cuttings. This is usually done in the spring. A shoot or a large leaf is cut with a sharp blade, the cut is treated with crushed activated carbon and dried for 2-3 days. Then planted in a bowl, in a mixture of leafy soil and sand.

Diseases and pests. The money tree is pest resistant. If scale insects suddenly appear, treat it with Aktellik. Do not allow waterlogging, as fungi may appear, which are very difficult to cure.

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The money tree (also called the fat woman and the crassula) is an unpretentious houseplant. His historical homeland is Africa. Harsh conditions and frequent droughts ideally prepared the fat woman for the difficult conditions of city apartments. However, you still need to know about the money tree itself, care, flowering and possible pests. This will allow you to grow a healthy crassula at home, which will delight the owners.

This plant is a succulent, that is, it has the ability to store moisture in its leaves and stems. Thanks to this skill, Crassula easily tolerates long periods without watering, so a money tree can be planted by those who often have to travel somewhere.

Temperature features, lighting, humidity

Fat girls love the light, but they don't like direct sunlight. It is recommended to put them on stands or shelves under the window so that they receive diffused light. The best window orientation is southeast. There is always a lot of light from this side, but when the sun is at its zenith, it already passes to the other side of the house and does not singe the leaves.

If the windows face south or southwest, it is recommended to shade the glass in the summer so that the houseplant does not get burned. On the north side of the house, Crassula will miss the light. To make up for the deficiency, it can be put on the windowsill.

Important! With a lack of light, a fat woman often gets sick.

Will benefit air baths: the money tree is advised to be taken out into the open air when it is warm outside, but not hot. For example, in the spring it can be put on a balcony or loggia.

Temperature

Despite her African roots, the fat woman does not like the heat. In summer, she tolerates it easier than in winter. For a period of heating season it is recommended to rearrange the money tree away from the batteries. Ideal temperature regime in winter from 14 to 17°С, in summer - 19-25°С.

Air humidity

An important parameter for most plants. For Crassula too, but to a lesser extent. Due to the fact that the plant is a succulent, it easily tolerates dry air. Namely, this is it during the period when the batteries are turned on. The most difficult fat woman tolerates frequent changes in humidity levels, it is difficult for her to adapt to changeable conditions.

If the air is very dry, then you can spray the plant with a spray bottle. But much more he will like rubbing the leaves with a damp cloth or sponge. Besides, this great way remove dust, clean the surface of the plant itself from various contaminants.

Soil requirements and transplant

The money tree has a developed fibrous root system, i.e. underground part quite weak and growing in breadth. Therefore, the pot must be selected taking into account this feature: wide and not very deep.

The soil should be loose so that water does not stagnate near the roots. Otherwise, they may rot. It is desirable to provide drainage.

Such an earthen mixture is considered optimal: soddy soil (4 parts) + 1 part each of sand, humus and hardwood. You can also purchase any ready-made substrate. However, you need to carefully read for which plants it is suitable.

Transfer

The money tree grows rather slowly, so it will need to be replanted no more than 1 time in 2-3 years. In some cases, the need for this procedure occurs less frequently. Adult plants do not like this procedure very much, therefore, without objective reasons, transplantation is not necessary.

Crassula's roots are rather weak. At the same time, the stem and leaves are thick and heavy. In some cases, it may be necessary to strengthen the plant in the new soil mixture using spacers. They are set up for a few weeks and then removed.

Watering and feeding the fat woman

It is very important to observe the watering regimen. The money tree does not like excess moisture. From this, his roots rot, which leads to the death of the plant. In spring and summer, crassula grows actively, it needs more frequent watering - once every 7-10 days. In winter and autumn there is a period of calm. Watering becomes less frequent - 1 time in 3-4 weeks. The plant likes good water: soft, settled, room temperature.

Attention! In the case of a fat woman, it is safer to forget about watering than to over-moisten the soil.

1 more important point- the money tree does not like frequent feeding. It is enough to do this 1-2 times a year in the spring and summer. There must be 3 main elements: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. You can purchase a specially prepared preparation for succulents at a flower shop. In winter and autumn, only half the dose (or less) is applied. "Overfeeding" a fat woman will not lead to anything good.

Pruning and crown shaping

It is necessary to form the crown of the fat woman. Otherwise, the shoots will grow uncontrollably, the crassula will become untidy. In some cases, it is even possible to overturn the plant. The crown is formed using 2 procedures: pinching and pruning.

Pinching is carried out when 3-4 pairs of leaves have grown on the branch. The new kidney is carefully pinched with tweezers or nails. Then several ovaries will appear here, and the tree will branch.

Cut long branches of 6-7 pairs of leaves or more. Pruning is done above the growing point and sprinkled with activated charcoal. In this way, the crown of a fat woman is formed.

flowering money tree

The plant blooms very beautifully. In order to rejoice more often, it is necessary to properly care for the money tree: ensure optimal temperature and light conditions, timely watering, and moderate feeding. Flowers are more likely to appear if the plant is transplanted on time: in March or the first half of April.

Propagation of a houseplant

The main method of reproduction is cuttings. Even an accidentally broken branch can become quite suitable planting material. However, breaking stems is not recommended. The leaf or stem cutting is carefully cut with a knife. Sprinkle with crushed activated carbon for disinfection and dry the cut site a little both on the plant and on the shoot. After a couple of days, the shoot is planted in the soil.

Another way is to use seeds. It is less effective and less common. However, you also need to know about it: the seeds of the money tree are sown in a prepared substrate consisting of sand and leafy soil. Seedlings need to be sprayed and aired every day. For growing seedlings, a flat and wide cup with holes in the bottom is also used to drain excess moisture.

Pests and diseases of the fat woman

Crassula has a fairly strong immune system. However, she is also susceptible to some diseases. It can also be attacked by pests.

Most often, a fat woman is affected by any fungal infections. In this case, spots of brown color or a lighter shade appear on the leaves. You can cure the fungus with the help of special fungicides. The drugs are sold in flower shops.

Another disease is root rot. Its cause is excessive watering. It is quite simple to determine it: the leaves become loose, lose turgor. It ends with the fact that they turn yellow and fall off.

If you notice in a timely manner that the plant is unhealthy, then it can still be cured. To do this, the money tree is taken out of the pot. First, gently shake off a clod of earth, then wash off the remnants with water so that only one roots remain. They are carefully examined. If they find rotten ones, they cut them off. The cut site is treated with crushed activated carbon. Then the plant is planted in a new pot with new soil.

Prevention of the disease - reducing the number of irrigations, their volume. excess water from the pallet must be removed immediately.

Pests

Sometimes pests, for example, spider mites or scale insects, start up on a fat woman. You can and should fight them. It is acceptable to use both insecticides and homemade, improvised means.

The spider mite is given out by a thin cobweb between the leaves and stems and small specks yellow color. To get rid of it, you can wipe the plant with a cotton swab dipped in 96% alcohol.

The shield causes the appearance of tubercles of brown and yellowish color. From home remedies, a solution of laundry soap helps well.

Due to the mealybug, a plaque appears in the axils of the leaves, resembling dirty cotton wool. Rubbing with garlic infusion or a solution of laundry soap will save him from it.

Insecticides can be used against any pests.

Not everyone knows ornamental plant which is called " fat woman" or " crassula”, but many can answer the question of what it looks like money tree. It is also called the happiness tree or the monkey tree. Under these names lies a succulent plant that flower growers adore because it is easy to handle.

Due to the fact that the leaves of this plant look like coins, it was called the money tree. According to Feng Shui, this is exactly the tree that can help you become rich if it is grown in the right place: the southeast or south window. The tree has fleshy leaves that store nutrients. The presence of wealth depends on how fleshy they are. In other words, the state of this tree is directly related to the state of the family's financial situation.

Due to its original shape (rounded), this tree is considered a source of positive energy, as well as an object that can extinguish negative emotions and, thereby, harmonize the atmosphere of the home.

Oddly enough, but this tree cannot be bought (as it is believed), but you can grow it yourself. To do this, you should purchase (from neighbors or acquaintances) a shoot from the money tree.

Origin

Crassula (Crassula) belongs to the Crassula family of the genus succulents and is a deciduous ornamental plant that can bloom, but not in room conditions.

Motherland

This plant is able to accumulate a lot of moisture in its leaves, which makes it possible for it to feel good in the extreme conditions of arid Africa, Madagascar and South Arabia. This is also facilitated by its optimal forms, which flower growers like so much.

Varieties

You can find several types of crassula. The most popular of all is the tree crassula (Crassula arborescens), the cotyledon tree, or the money tree. Silver Crassula (Crassula argenta), Oval Crassula (Crassula ovata) is also called the money tree. These plants may have different leaf colors. Above listed species fat women have a green, dark green or shiny silver leaf surface. The leaves may have a reddish border or red spots on reverse side leaves.

All these representatives of hot countries have taken root in the conditions of modern apartments and can grow in height up to 1 or 2 meters. This is not surprising, because the microclimate of modern apartments can be called extreme, both in winter and in summer. Most of the apartments do not have air conditioners, therefore, during hot periods, the apartments are almost tropics. At the same time, air humidity is greatly underestimated, which is quite acceptable for representatives of the tropics.

Planting and reproduction

The fat woman is propagated by shoots or leaf cuttings. They are rooted by planting in the soil, but before that, they are dried for two days. There is another, albeit longer, but more reliable method - this is the rooting of cuttings in water. In order for the process or cutting to develop faster, it should be installed in a well-lit place. In this case, it is necessary to transplant the rooted process in a timely manner and feed it regularly.

The soil

For succulents, an earthen substrate is excellent, used for cacti, which are also accustomed to the extreme conditions of hot countries. As a rule, the mixture consists of one part of soddy soil, 3 parts of leafy soil and 1 part of sand. In addition, you need to have humus, ash, clay and brick chips. But the most important thing is to provide good drainage.

Alternatively, you can plant it in ordinary soil, and it will grow and develop no worse than in specially prepared soil. This is due to the fact that the tree is not demanding on the composition of the earth mixture and will be able to forgive this flaw.

The plant is transplanted once every 2-3 years, although it is possible less often: it all depends on the size of the pot and the rate of development.

When growing a fat woman, one nuance should be taken into account: it has a weak root system and it may not hold a large tree. Therefore, the pot must be heavy and deep, which will prevent the money tree from falling and being damaged.

Proper care of the money tree

Watering

Caring for a fat woman is very simple. In the summer, when the money tree is actively growing, it should be watered regularly, but only after the soil has dried out. It's about 1 or 2 times a week. This plant does not allow waterlogging at all, because it is accustomed to a dry climate. During the dormant period, watering practically stops, although if you water it once every 2 months, then there will be no particular harm. And here, again, it all depends on the ambient temperature. The humidity of the room does not play a special role, therefore, the fat woman easily tolerates the dry air of the apartments. It is not necessary to spray the plant, but to wipe the leaves from the dust that has collected on them is a must. In addition, the room where the plant is located should be regularly ventilated.

Temperature and lighting

The temperature regime of the fat woman is very wide and includes daily differences, amounting to tens of degrees. The daytime temperature of this plant can be in the range of + 20-22ºС, or even lower, up to + 6ºС. This plant is very photophilous and needs a lot of light throughout the year. It is not afraid of direct sunlight, but you should not leave it in such conditions for a long time, otherwise the tree may get burned.

Approximately 1 or 2 times a month, the plant can be fed with ready-made fertilizers for cacti. It can be gumisol "Gummi".

The calendar

succulents, like cacti, need a rest period, and this is September-February (March). At the same time, it should be a cool room. At this time, the plant is practically not watered;
in the summer you need fresh air and warmth.

These conditions will allow the money tree to grow and develop well. For older plants, similar conditions of detention can provoke a unique flowering.

plant transplantation only in spring;
the plant propagates in spring or summer;
during the period of active growth, top dressing is required.

Problems of keeping a fat woman

As a rule, problems arise when plant care is either stopped altogether, or it is not proper, and sometimes excessive.

The tree may drop leaves at any time, which will indicate that there is no moisture at all or the tree has been watered with cold water. Water for irrigation should be at room temperature and not lower, or maybe several degrees higher.

You need to be especially careful when keeping a tree in the winter. During this period, it is very difficult to guess how much moisture he needs. With an excess of moisture, the leaves may wither or turn pale, and if there is no moisture at all, then they may darken, wrinkle and lose their luster.

Damaged leaves should be removed immediately and reflect on what happened: whether watering should be stopped altogether, or whether it should be watered at least once. If an error occurs in one direction or another, then the money tree can be lost forever.

If there is little moisture, then brown spots may appear on the leaves. If the spots are brown but soft, then this is most likely fungal disease and treatment of the plant with antifungal drugs is required.

If the plant has been infected with root rot, then it will begin to blacken from below. In this case, surgical intervention is possible: the plant should be removed from the pot, after which the damaged roots are cut out, and the tree is transplanted into a new pot and into a fresh substrate. Damaged roots can be such that the money tree can die. In this case, the top is cut off and rooted. Thus, a new tree will be grown.

If a tree grows with a long, ugly stem, then these are consequences due to winter waterlogging, as well as lack of lighting.

There are practically no pests in a fat woman, if you properly care for her. In fact, any ornamental plant is not affected by pests if it is healthy and grows normally. And this happens only when the plant is given due attention. If, nevertheless, something suspicious appeared on the tree, then it is better to treat the tree with chemicals.

It was noticed that the state of the money tree directly depends on the psychophysical state of the person who cares for it. If a person falls ill, then something is wrong with the tree. There were times when the tree even died.

We grow a tree

All the fat women described above can grow in the form of a bush, and in order to end up with a tree, you will have to strain a little. The formation of the crown of the money tree is carried out from the very beginning of its growth. The formation of the crown occurs due to the removal of side shoots, while the tree reaches the desired height. Usually, this is a tree height of 25-30 cm, while half of the trunk should be bare. After that, the top should be pinched off, after which the plant begins to sprout lateral shoots, which will later become the basis of the crown of the money tree. During growth, the tree may lean to one side (closer to the light), so it needs to be rotated regularly.

The tree-like form of the toast spontaneously begins to grow in the form of a tree, while forming a crown.

Like any succulents, fat women can become an integral part of garden and flower arrangements. They will take their place when creating decorative slides, decorating small artificial reservoirs, compact flower beds, as well as for decorative design offices, hospitals, cultural institutions and administrative buildings. Here we must not forget about the banks where big money is spinning, and so that they do not dry out, you should grow a money tree, especially since it is not very demanding to care for and grows well in such conditions.

Crassula, or money tree.

The plant known to many as the money tree is called Crassula. The genus Crassula belongs to the Crassula family, unites annual and perennial succulents, distributed mainly in the southern hemisphere. The birthplace of various types of crassula is Africa, more precisely its arid southern and southwestern regions, the Arabian Peninsula, Madagascar.

The inhabitants of arid regions have an unusual decorative appearance, and therefore many of them are bred at home. We will find out how to care for a money tree, what problems you may encounter during cultivation, and what are the ways to solve them.

Description

According to various sources, from 300 to 500 varieties belong to the genus Crassula. Among them there are dwarfs, whose height does not exceed a few centimeters, and big trees, towering 3-4 meters. Most species are perennials, but there are also annual specimens that die immediately after flowering.

Most representatives have erect or creeping herbaceous stems. There are shrubs with juicy fleshy or woody trunks, tall tree-like representatives. Juicy and fleshy, covered with a wax coating, Crassula leaves with a yellowish, greenish or blue tint turn red or cherry in the sun.

Crassula plant was named for the characteristic structure of the leaves and stems: the word "crassus" from the Latin language is translated as "thick". Hence another name for Crassula - fat woman. The original appearance, unpretentiousness to environmental conditions, simple home care made the fat woman popular with flower growers.

Beneficial features

For its healing properties money flower sometimes called a living tree.

Many people know that the fat woman has positive energy. But not everyone knows that such a money tree has healing properties, is a filter plant. Phytoncides secreted by Crassula have pronounced antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, disinfect indoor air.

Crassula juice is used to treat:

herpes, insect bites, cuts, abscesses, bruises (as lotions);
sore throats, inflammation of the gums (in the form of rinses);
arthritis, other diseases of the joints (rubbing is carried out before bedtime).

Parts of the plant as a medicine are strictly forbidden to be taken orally - they contain a large amount of arsenic.

Kinds

There are three types of common tree-like crassula.

Crassula oval (or ovoid). The most common type of tree, which in nature reaches a height of 3 m, in an apartment does not exceed 1.5 m. This money tree is unpretentious in care, tolerates shade better than others.
Crassula tree. A plant with bare branches and a trunk, fleshy flat leaves of an ovoid form. White or pale pink flowers of the plant are collected in panicle inflorescences. But the money tree (otherwise the tree-like fat woman) very rarely blooms when grown at home, does not tolerate shade.
Crassula silvery (purslane). Unlike the two previous types of tree, this money flower is much smaller in size. Otherwise, the silver crassula is very similar to the oval and tree varieties.

Of the creeping plants, crassulas are more common than others:

lycopsform (mossy);
pseudomoss;
milky;
point;
tetrahedral;
Cooper.

The genus fat woman is distinguished by a variety of species, among which there are even specimens for the aquarium. However, the most widespread in home floriculture was the tree-like fat woman.

Home Care

Caring for a fat woman is not difficult. In fact, caring for a money tree includes moderate watering, periodic top dressing, removing dust from the leaves, pruning and crown formation.

Lighting

The shape of the fat woman can change depending on the intensity of illumination: with a lack of light, the trunks are stretched, become thin, with an excess, on the contrary, they thicken.

The fat woman, or money tree, should be placed in places with sufficient lighting, optimally - from the southeast side. This rule is recommended not only by flower growers, but also by Feng Shui experts.

It is important to ensure that direct sunlight does not fall on the flower, from which the plant turns red, fades and leaves fall. In summer, the tree-like fat woman feels good and comfortable on the balcony, and in the cold season it is better to transfer the plant to south-facing windows.

Watering

How often to water depends on the temperature. You need to water the money tree:

twice a week - in the heat;
once every 7 days - at normal temperature;
once every 20-30 days - in winter.

The person caring for the plant must ensure that the earth is not excessively wet, but does not dry out either. It is better to water the plant in the evening, with warm settled water.

Humidity

Crassula tolerates moisture deficiency well and does not require regular spraying. Dust accumulated on the surface of the leaf plates can be removed with a damp cloth. Crassula responds well to warm showers, which are carried out once every 2-3 months, covering the ground with a film.

Temperature

In spring and summer, the optimum temperature for the plant is from 20 to 25 ° C, it is desirable that the flower be on a balcony or street - a living tree does not tolerate a lack of fresh air. In winter, the plant is comfortable at a temperature of about 15 ° C and below, but not less than 4 ° C.

At room temperature, the flower can also overwinter, but it will most likely begin to wither and fall off the leaves. It is better not to place a money tree flower near radiators.

How to transplant a money tree

How to transplant a money tree, you can learn from experienced flower growers. Transplantation is carried out every 2-3 years, not more often, and only if necessary - if the flower has grown greatly.

The plant is transplanted in the spring (preferably in May) into a pot slightly larger than the previous one. The soil for transplanting a fat woman is taken ordinary, purchased, intended for planting cacti and succulents.

Such a soil substrate can be prepared independently by mixing part of the soddy soil and sand with three parts of leafy soil. If you add a handful of humus, clay, ash to the ground, the nutritional value of the soil will increase. In order for the transplanted flower to grow well, it is important not to forget about drainage - expanded clay or chipped shards.

In a pot filled with drainage material and earth by a quarter, the roots of the plant are placed along with a clod of earth. Then the voids are filled with a new soil substrate. After transplanting, the flower is well watered. The earth is periodically loosened to improve the oxygen supply of the roots, and if the soil sags, the top layer is poured into the pot.

If the root has become too long, it must be shortened before planting.

How to cut a fat woman

To create a beautiful decorative look, you need to prune the money tree. Flower crown formation begins while the tree is still young. When the height of the fat woman reaches 15–20 cm, pinch off two small upper leaves. As a result, branching will begin in this place, instead of two, four leaves will appear. As the crassula grows, the top sheets are removed in places where branching of the shoots is expected.

Is it possible to cut the stems and leaves of an adult plant? It is possible, but in this case, stumps remain in place of the truncated shoots, spoiling the appearance of the crassula.

How to grow a money tree?

In order for the plant to grow well and please the eye, it is important to know some of the features of the crassula and the rules of cultivation.

planting

To grow a beautiful money tree, you need not only to properly care for the plant, but also to plant it correctly. A pot for crassula needs a small and shallow, but wide and heavy, stable. In a deep container, the root of the plant tends down, and the crassula itself stretches up, because of which the trunk becomes thin and weak.

What land is needed for planting crassula? The soil for the money tree should consist of equal amounts sheet, sod land and sand. You can use soil containing three parts of soddy soil, one part of humus and leafy soil, sand, brick chips or fine gravel. After planting the plant, a small fat woman is kept at a temperature of 16 to 18 ° C, watered once a day.

top dressing

A living tree is fed with liquid fertilizers for cacti and succulents. In summer, top dressing is carried out twice a month, the rest of the time - once a month. The concentration of fertilizers is also reduced by half. Fertilizers are applied to moist soil - immediately after watering.

Other important points

The fat woman loves constancy, so you should not often rearrange the pot from one place to another.
Lack of light can lead to elongation of the trunk and mass leaf fall.
In winter, Crassula has a dormant period. At this time, it is better to put the plant in a room with a temperature of about 5 ° C, water it no more than once every 20 days.
When placing crassula on the windowsill, it is important to ensure that the leaves do not come into contact with the glass.

Growing problems

Spots on the leaves are a sign of scale damage.

spider mite. When attacked by a tick, the leaves and stems of the plant are covered with a thin cobweb. A soapy solution, Actellik, Fitoverm, Fufanon will help to cure a living tree.
Shchitovka. The defeat of the scale insect can be identified by yellow and brown spots that appear on the surface of the leaves. The fight against the scale insect is carried out in the same way as the destruction of the spider mite.
Mealybug. To destroy the pest, a solution of laundry soap and insecticides are used. If there are few insects, they can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.

In addition to the attack of pests when growing a money tree, other problems may arise:

rotting of the roots and base of the trunk - with an excess of moisture (crassula should not be watered often);
wilting of leaves - in case of moisture deficiency;
shedding of leaves - when watering with cold water, in a draft, with a lack of fresh air.

The fat woman reacts poorly to drafts, due to which all the leaves of the plant can dry out and crumble.

How it blooms

Crassula very rarely blooms even among experienced flower growers.

It turns out that a living tree can bloom. However, to achieve the appearance of flowers is very difficult even for professional florists who know exactly how to properly care for the plant.

Most often, beautiful white flowers appear on the plant when the fat woman is actively growing. Delicate flowers emit pollen, and therefore some people may develop an allergy during the flowering period of the fat woman.

reproduction

Reproduction of the money tree is carried out:

cuttings;
seeds.

cuttings

Cuttings are the easiest way to propagate a money tree. Crassula reproduces by stem segments and leaves. A large leaf or shoot is cut with a sharp knife. The cuttings are placed in a container with water until the roots grow. In order for the root system to form faster and the stem not to rot, charcoal can be added to the water.

If desired, cuttings can be immediately planted in the ground, but in order for a living tree to take root better, it is recommended to germinate the cuttings. Cuttings with roots are planted in a pot with a diameter of 5-7 cm with a soil substrate consisting of equal amounts of soddy and leafy soil, sand.

seeds

Crassula flower can be propagated by seeds. They are sown in wide containers filled with a mixture of leafy soil (2 parts) and sand (1 part), covered with glass. Every day, the crops are ventilated, the condensate is wiped off the glass. Two weeks after planting, the seeds germinate.

Seedlings are planted in soil, consisting of leafy soil (1 part), soddy soil and sand (½ part each). A container with seedlings is placed under bright diffused lighting. The grown crassulas are transplanted into pots with a diameter of 5 to 7 cm in the soil, consisting of equal parts of leafy and soddy soil, sand. Until the sprouts take root, they are kept at a temperature of 16–18 ° C. Then the crassula is moved to a permanent place.

Where can I buy

Money tree can be purchased in specialized flower shops, greenhouses and online stores. The cost of Crassula varies widely, depending on the type of plant, its age and size.

Average prices for crassula:

Crassula Ovata (height 20 cm) - 600 rubles;
Crassula Ovata (35 cm) - 1,390;
money tree (70 cm) - 8,500;
Crassula the Hobbit (50 cm) - 3,700 rubles.

The money tree is unpretentious, and caring for a fat woman will not cause any special problems. But in order for the plant to not only grow well, but also attract financial well-being, you can’t just buy a fat woman - you need to grow a money tree yourself from a small process. Caring for plants is very simple - even novice flower growers can grow cash flowers.