You've chosen a difficult plant for your first endeavor. Judging by the problems others have with Pachira, don't feel badly if you find it challenging to grow!

Don't really know what it is you might be growing in the water. Have you noticed any small gnat-like insects flying around your plant? Do you notice similiar critters in the potting soil when you water?

Most of you said fertilizing trees was not a good idea. Then aside from puting mulch around them, how can I stop 3 oak and hickory trees from dying due to trauma from building a new house around them? I was told within 3 years they will die. Please help! Donna