Money Tree: changes in the bark and brown leaves

Toronto, Canada

Hi, I've had this money tree for years (5 or so). When I moved to Toronto, I thought the plant was dead since my movers were pretty rough on it so I left it outside on my balcony for several months. Then I noticed it making new leaves and brought it back indoors. This was 3 years ago. At that time, I noticed what appeared to be fungus on the bark near the soil, and tried to wash it off. The bark still looks odd and "loose", and since that time the tips of the older leaves turn brown, then the entire leaves turn brown and fall off. I'm wondering if the plant is infected and if there is any way I can fix this... No more fungus-like growth noted on the bark since that first time 3 years ago.

Thumbnail by chanti7
Saint Louis, MO

Could just be overwatering. My plant was doing much the same in March. I cut the stems back until there was NO leaves. Drastic, but I figured I was losing the plant anyway. In no time at all, it started to put out new growth. Today it is as full as it was back then and all the leaves are big and healthy. Do you have a bright spot without direct sun outside? It loves to be outside, and will fill in very quickly. If the area of loose bark is very big on the truck, you might as well remove it and let the air get to it. It should heal over I would think. Just keep it dry and make sure the soil level is below the area you stripped off.
Chris

Toronto, Canada

Thanks Chris! Unfortunately I live in a condo building and no longer even have a balcony. I'll change it's position to be out of the sun, and water less often. Also, for the bark, the area is about 5cm X 5cm. I'll see if I can remove it. Thank you for your help!

(Zone 1)

Could possibly be a fungal infection. Check out some of these photo's: http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&q=images+of+fungus+on+foliage&um=1&ie=UTF-8

Or it could be a combination of over-watering and too much direct sun.

I would repot the plant either in a new pot (or thoroughly clean and sterilize the old one), use fresh soil and keep it in a bright shady location, no direct sun.

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