Schefflera 6"

Light

• Schefflera prefers bright, indirect light. It will tolerate lower light, but growth will be slower, and the plant may become leggy.

• Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves. For variegated varieties, bright light will help maintain the variegation.

Watering

• Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Water thoroughly, allowing the excess to drain out, but make sure not to let the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.

• Schefflera is somewhat drought-tolerant, so it’s better to underwater than overwater.

• In winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows.

Humidity

• Schefflera prefers moderate humidity. It will tolerate lower humidity, but higher humidity (50% or more) is beneficial for healthy growth.

• Mist the plant occasionally or place it near a humidifier if the air is particularly dry, especially in winter.

Temperature

• Schefflera thrives in temperatures between 60–75°F. Avoid cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F, which can cause leaf drop.

• Keep the plant away from air conditioners or heating vents that can cause sudden temperature changes.

Soil

• Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a general houseplant mix. You can also mix in perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.

• Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.

Fertilizing

• Feed Schefflera once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

• Reduce feeding in fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.

 Pruning

• Prune regularly to maintain the shape and control the size of your Schefflera. This also encourages bushier growth.

• Remove any leggy or yellowing stems, and trim back overgrown branches.

• Schefflera responds well to pruning, and you can cut it back heavily if needed.

Repotting

• Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a slightly larger pot and refresh the soil with a well-draining mix.

• Schefflera can grow quite large, but it can also thrive in a pot that’s a bit small, which will help control its size.

Pest Control

• Schefflera is generally resistant to pests but can occasionally attract spider mites, scale, or mealybugs. Inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests, such as webbing or sticky leaves.

• If pests are found, treat them with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth.

 Signs of Stress

• Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, while brown leaf tips may indicate underwatering or dry air.

• Leggy growth or leaves dropping could be due to insufficient light, so consider moving the plant to a brighter location.

• If the plant starts dropping leaves rapidly, it may be reacting to a sudden change in temperature or light conditions.