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If your money plant (pothos) looks dull, grows slowly, or shows pale or yellowing leaves even though you water it regularly, you’re not alone. I’ve seen this many times in both my balcony pots and indoor jars. In many cases, the culprit is a magnesium deficiency in the soil.
Using Epsom salt for money plant is a simple, inexpensive way to revive growth and restore deep green foliage. I’ve tested Epsom salt on money plants grown in pots, water-filled bottles, and hanging baskets, and when used correctly, it genuinely strengthens the plant. But using too much or using it at the wrong time does more harm than good.
This guide walks you through exactly how to use Epsom salt safely and effectively, based on hands-on home gardening experience.
Why Epsom Salt Works for Money Plants
Epsom salt is chemically magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄). Money plants especially those in containers often run low on magnesium because:
- Watering leaches nutrients from potting soil
- Potting mixes become depleted over time
- Tap water minerals can interfere with nutrient uptake
Magnesium plays a big role in leaf color and energy production. When the plant gets enough magnesium:
- Leaves turn a richer green
- New growth becomes faster and fuller
- Yellowing between veins reduces
- Root strength improves
In my balcony pothos, the improvement becomes visible within 10–14 days a slow but steady deepening of leaf color.
What Actually You’ll Need
- Epsom salt (pure, unscented, no additives)
- A small measuring spoon
- Watering can or spray bottle
- Optional: Compost or cocopeat (for overall soil health)
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
If you can’t find Epsom salt:
- Wood ash (for magnesium and potassium, used sparingly)
- Seaweed liquid (mild magnesium content)
How to Use Epsom Salt for Money Plant (Step-by-Step)
1. Best Time to Apply
- Early morning or late afternoon
- Once a month for potted plants
- Every 6–8 weeks for water-grown money plants
Avoid direct midday sunlight after application, especially on outdoor plants.
2. For Potted Money Plants (Soil Application)
- Mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt in 1 liter of water.
- Stir until fully dissolved.
- Water the soil gently until it is evenly moist.
- Do not pour more once water begins to drain out.
Visual cue: Leaves should gradually look shinier and greener in 1–2 weeks.
3. For Money Plants Grown in Water
- Remove 20–30% of the old water.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt to 1 liter of clean water.
- Mix well and refill the jar or bottle.
Tip: Overusing Epsom salt in water-grown pothos can create salt build-up and brown leaf tips. Less is more.
4. For Foliar Spray (Quick Boost)
- Mix ½ teaspoon Epsom salt in 1 liter of water.
- Mist the leaves lightly avoid dripping wet surfaces.
- Spray in early morning only.
I only do foliar sprays when my plant shows clear magnesium deficiency (yellowing between veins) for faster correction.
Professional Tips & Best Practices
- Use Epsom salt only once a month. More frequent use can cause leaf burn.
- Combine with compost every 2–3 months to maintain soil health.
- Check drainage Epsom salt won’t fix issues caused by soggy soil.
- For indoor money plants, use half the dosage to prevent salt buildup.
- If your tap water is hard, your plant is more likely to benefit from magnesium supplementation.
Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Using Epsom salt too often: Leads to nutrient imbalance.
- Spraying under strong sun: Causes leaf scorch.
- Expecting instant results: Money plants respond slowly; expect changes in 10–14 days.
- Using scented bath Epsom salts: These harm plant roots.
FAQ
1. Why are my money plant leaves still yellow after using Epsom salt?
Yellowing can also be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or lack of light. Check these first.
2. Can I use Epsom salt every week?
No. Once a month is enough for containers; more can damage roots.
3. Is Epsom salt safe for indoor money plants?
Yes just use half the outdoor dose to avoid salt buildup.
4. Can Epsom salt make my money plant grow faster?
It helps if your plant lacked magnesium. If the issue is sunlight or watering, it won’t fix those.
5. Can I use Epsom salt on money plants in LECA or hydroponic setups?
Yes, but use a very small amount ¼ teaspoon per liter to avoid nutrient imbalance.
6. Why does my money plant get brown leaf tips after applying Epsom salt?
This usually happens when the dosage is too high or the plant is dehydrated before application.
When NOT to Use Epsom Salt
Avoid using Epsom salt if:
- Your soil is already rich in magnesium (common in some coastal areas)
- You recently applied a balanced fertilizer
- Your plant is suffering from root rot
- Leaves are drooping due to overwatering
In these cases, Epsom salt can make the problem worse.
Alternative Solutions
You don’t always need Epsom salt. Based on your plant’s condition:
Compost or Vermicompost
- Improves overall nutrition
- Adds beneficial microbes
- Long-term soil health support
Seaweed Extract
- Gentle and beginner-safe
- Boosts overall plant vigor
- Low risk of nutrient imbalance
Balanced Liquid Fertilizer
- Ideal for fast-growing indoor pothos
- Provides all micronutrients, not just magnesium
Conclusion
Using Epsom salt for money plant is a simple but effective way to boost leaf color and encourage stronger growth when applied correctly and sparingly. From real-world balcony and indoor gardening experience, the key is moderation. Once a month is enough, and always observe how your plant responds over the next 1–2 weeks.
Healthy money plants come from balanced care: good light, proper watering, and nutrient-rich soil. Epsom salt is just one tool in your gardening toolkit use it wisely, and your plant will reward you with lush, vibrant growth.