Why Does My Money Tree Plant Look Unhealthy?

Do the leaves have any small circular or irregularly shaped dry spots that are gray to straw in color?

Are the leaves covered with white powder?

Are the leaves yellowing, wilting and, dying?

Are the leaves covered with small bumps?

Are the leaves curled and distorted?

Do the leaves and stems have white, cottony clusters on them?

These symptoms indicate a fungal disease - Anthracnose. Keep plants dry when watering to prevent spread. Spray plants with copper when the first fruit develops if you have had problems in the past.

White, powdery patches on the leaves are caused by a fungal disease Powdery mildew. Powdery mildew usually appears in damp places. Encourage good air circulation around the affected plants by thining them and any surrounding plants. Water plants from bellow to keep foliage dry. Any affected leaves should be cut off and removed. The appropriate fungicidal spray will protect your plant from further infections.

Yellow leaves that wilt and die usually indicate Root rot. Several pathogens cause root rots of seedlings as well as mature plants. Poorly drained, overly wet soil promotes rot so choose well-drained sites and add organic matter to improve drainage. Remove and destroy infected plants. Solarize the soil before replanting.

Leaves covered by small bumps are caused by scales. These tiny, shelled insects often feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing an unhealthy appearance with yellowish blotches on the upper leaf surfaces. Scrape off minor infestations with your fingernail. Prune out badly infested growth, or use a soft brush and soapy water to gently scrub the scales off the stems. Control scales by spraying insecticidal oil during the growing season.

Distorted and curled leaves are caused by aphids. These tiny insects cluster under leaves and on growing tips where they feed on plant sap. Leaves, stems, and buds get distorted and later leaves and flowers drop from the plant. You can control them by washing them off the plant with water spray. Insecticidal soap should be used with severe infestations.

White, cottony clusters on leaves and stems are caused by mealybugs. These tiny insects are covered with a fluffy white coating. They feed by sucking plants sap. They produce sticky substance honeydew which makes leaves sticky. You can control them by washing them off the plant with water spray. Insecticidal soap should be used with severe infestations.

If there is chewing damage on the roots the culprits are fungus gnats larvae. Adults are little flying pests in the house. Allow your plant’s soil to dry out between waterings. The larvae prefer constantly moist or wet soil, and will not thrive when the soil starts to dry out. Neem oil sprayed on the soil’s surface and the plant can help keep adults away.