Question

Fallen leave   QUESTION: Hi

We have a Pachira Aquatica plant (Money tree?) which is growing fine with new green leaves on top. However recently we have discovered the old leaves are turning yellow and brown and are falling off.
We wonder if it is natural or is it kind of disease ?
I send a picture displaying the fallen leaves. I hope you could take a look at it.

Thanks so much in advance.

ANSWER: These plants are usually pretty durable and disease free.  This species is native to tropical swamps, so the use of fertilizers should be done sparingly.  With this having been said, the chlorosis (yellowing) of the fallen leaf, does look as though it could be from a nutrient deficiency.  

Is this plant growing outdoors or in a pot indoors?  In growing plants indoors, salt accumulation can lead to symptoms that resemble disease symptoms.

Please give me more information about where the plant is grown?  when and how much it is watered and given nutrients?  Any changes in location (if grown in a pot), light environment, etc.



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The plant   QUESTION: Thanks allot for your response.
The plant is growing indoor. We are in Norway and there is not so much sun light at this time of the year either.
We have been said not to water the plant so much, so we water it about 2 glasses of water every 5 days. We have not given it any nutrients since we bought it for 6 month ago. If we should, what kind of nutrients should we give it ? We have not changed the plants location during the period either.
And thanks again for your answer:)

Answer
Dear Armaz,

Thank you for the additional information.

Your advice was exactly correct.  In low light conditions, nutrients are not needed.  Also, too much water can promote root diseases.  I would suggest that once the weather warms in the spring, slowly move the plant into a brighter light environment, increase the amount of water, and add a water-soluble all- purpose plant nutrient. I am unfamiliar with plant nutrients available in Norway, but a garden center can help with that.  By the end of the summer, your plant should be once again healthy.