I nonetheless keep in mind the primary time I introduced residence a Schefflera (It was a deep inexperienced Schefflera amate).
I had no concept what I used to be doing, however the shiny inexperienced leaves and umbrella-like form completely pulled me in. Quick ahead just a few years, and I’ve lastly found out easy methods to hold this magnificence alive and thriving.
So, when you’re looking at a Schefflera proper now questioning why it appears to be like slightly unhappy, otherwise you’re excited about getting one, you’re in the correct place.
Right here’s the whole lot I’ve discovered about Schefflera plant care with out the boring stuff.
Schefflera (Umbrella Plant) Description
Schefflera, usually known as the umbrella plant (you’ll know why whenever you see the leaf form), is a tropical plant initially from Australia and elements of Asia.
It is tremendous standard as a houseplant as a result of it’s low-maintenance when you give it what it desires. There are just a few differing types, however the commonest are Schefflera arboricola (the dwarf model) and Schefflera actinophylla (which will get a lot greater).
These crops can develop a number of toes tall indoors, and with the correct care, they’ll look lush and chic year-round.
The very best half?
They don’t have to be fussed over every single day. However they do have ‘opinions’ they usually’ll present them if one thing’s off.
Kinds of Schefflera: Which one’s best for you?
There are literally fairly just a few totally different sorts of Schefflera, they usually every have their very own traits.
Schefflera arboricola: Also called the dwarf umbrella tree, this one is the commonest houseplant selection. It has smaller, extra compact leaves and is nice for small areas or tabletops. You’ll additionally discover variegated variations with creamy yellow or white patterns. Tremendous eye-catching.Schefflera actinophylla: That is the bigger, full-size model, generally known as the octopus tree. It has huge leaves that may develop fairly giant, and it’s higher suited to flooring pots or out of doors planting in heat climates. The scientific identify was lately modified to Heptapleurum actinophyllum. Schefflera ‘Amate’: A shiny, deep inexperienced number of Schefflera actinophylla that’s usually bred to be extra disease-resistant and deal with decrease mild higher.Schefflera ‘Gold Capella’: A cultivar of S. arboricola with putting gold and inexperienced variegated foliage. This one brings a shiny pop of coloration to any room.
There are others, however these are the most well-liked ones you’ll run into at nurseries or backyard facilities.
Methods to Propagate Schefflera Crops
Scheffleras are tremendous enjoyable to propagate, particularly when you love the thought of turning one plant into many. The simplest methodology? Stem cuttings.
Right here’s how I do it:
Lower a wholesome stem with a minimum of 4–6 inches in size.Take away the decrease leaves so solely the highest few stay.Dip the lower finish in rooting hormone (optionally available, however useful).Place it in water or a moist potting combine.If utilizing soil, cowl the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity excessive whereas roots type.
It often takes just a few weeks to see new roots. As soon as they’re about an inch lengthy, you possibly can pot the chopping in common soil. I’ve had one of the best luck doing this in spring or early summer time.
Planting Schefflera in Pots
Scheffleras do very well in containers, so long as the pot has good drainage.
I’ve discovered that plastic or ceramic pots with drainage holes work finest. Keep away from something with out holes until you are actually assured along with your watering.
When planting in a pot, begin with contemporary potting combine (one thing well-draining, like I discussed above). Select a pot that’s simply a few inches wider than the foundation ball.
Schefflera really prefers to be slightly comfortable.
An excessive amount of room can result in overwatering issues.
And ensure you elevate your pot barely or use a saucer to catch extra water. No one desires a rotting backside.
Schefflera Plant Care: Suggestions and Tips
Mild publicity
Scheffleras love shiny, oblique mild.
Assume close to a sunny window however not proper within the direct sunbeam. An excessive amount of direct daylight can scorch the leaves (been there, performed that). Then again, too little mild and it’ll begin getting leggy and dropping leaves quicker than I drop obligations on a Friday afternoon.
In case your Schefflera isn’t getting sufficient mild, you’ll discover the leaves turning yellow and falling off. That’s its approach of claiming, “Hey, assist me out right here.”
Tip: When you’ve obtained sheer curtains or a north- or east-facing window, that’s often good. And if all else fails, a very good develop mild works wonders.
Watering and soil moisture
This plant may be very clear about one factor: don’t let it sit in soggy soil. Overwatering is the primary strategy to kill a Schefflera. (Many have performed it.)
Let the highest inch or two of soil dry out between waterings. Stick your finger within the pot. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s nonetheless damp, give it just a few days. And whenever you water, go all in, completely soak the soil till water drains out the underside.
Simply ensure you empty the saucer afterward. No one likes moist toes, least of all a Schefflera.
Humidity and Temperature
Because it’s a tropical plant, Schefflera likes it heat and barely humid, however not rainforest-level humidity.
Regular family humidity is often positive, but when your air is tremendous dry (particularly in winter), it’s price misting it each few days or utilizing a small humidifier close by. Right here’s an inventory of one of the best humidifiers for crops.
They’re happiest between 60–75°F (16–24°C). Preserve them away from drafts, heaters, or air conditioners. I as soon as parked mine too near a vent, and let’s simply say it responded with an prompt leaf dump.
Potting Soil/Combine
Common potting combine is okay, however when you can, go for a well-draining combine.
I like mixing potting soil with a little bit of perlite or sand to enhance drainage. Something that forestalls water from hanging out too lengthy is a win.
In case your Schefflera is in soil that stays moist for too lengthy, root rot can set in, and that’s actually onerous to bounce again from.
Fertilizer utility
Throughout the rising season (spring and summer time), give it a dose of balanced liquid fertilizer as soon as a month. I take advantage of a 10-10-10 combine diluted to half energy.
Don’t overdo it. Extra fertilizer doesn’t imply quicker development, it simply results in burnt roots and unhappy vibes.
In fall and winter, you possibly can take a break from feeding. The plant’s development naturally slows down, and it gained’t be as hungry.
Pruning your schefflera
One of many cool issues about Schefflera is that you may prune it to manage its form. If it’s getting too tall or leggy, simply snip the highest off (yep, it’ll survive). New branches will sprout from the lower, making it bushier.
I really take pleasure in pruning mine, it’s type of like giving it a haircut. Plus, it helps forestall it from turning right into a lanky mess.
Repotting each couple of years
When you discover roots poking out the underside of the pot or your Schefflera is drying out tremendous quick, it is likely to be time to repot. Usually, each 2–3 years is sweet. Simply go up one pot dimension at a time. Don’t go too huge, or the soil can keep too moist.
And use that as an opportunity to refresh the soil and examine for any root points. When you spot brown, mushy roots, trim these off earlier than repotting.
Frequent Points (and easy methods to repair them)
Leaf drop: That is the plant’s approach of protesting. It may very well be an excessive amount of water, not sufficient mild, or sudden temperature modifications. Begin with these and modify.
Sticky leaves or black sooty mould? You might need aphids or scale. Wipe the leaves clear and deal with with insecticidal cleaning soap or neem oil.
Leggy development: It’s most likely not getting sufficient mild. Transfer it to a brighter spot and take into account pruning.
Overwintering
When you reside in USDA zones 10–12, you possibly can develop Schefflera outdoors all yr.
Fortunate you!
It really thrives outside in heat, humid climates and may get fairly giant.
However when you reside someplace that will get frosty, hold it in a pot so you possibly can convey it indoors when temperatures drop under 50°F (10°C).
Conclusion
Actually, Scheffleras are nice when you get the grasp of them. They don’t ask for a lot, however they may let you realize when one thing’s not proper.
I’ve discovered that they’re an ideal “level-up” plant. One thing to maneuver on to after pothos or snake crops.
And there’s one thing satisfying about watching these umbrella-shaped leaves unfold. It simply provides life to an area.
When you’ve obtained a Schefflera or are contemplating getting one, I say go for it. Give it some mild, don’t drown it, and examine in on it at times.
That’s all of the plant wants.
