Question
Will, we have a relatively healthy single trunk Schefflera that has grown to 9 feet.  Some leaves at the bottom are beginning to turn brown and fall off while the top seems very healthy with new growth.  It sits on an outdoor covered porch except when it gets very cold (Coastal SC).  Can the plant be trimmed to 4 or 5 feet in height and develop new growth at that level?

Answer
Hi Dan,

The short answer is yes, it can be pruned back to your preferred height and it will generate now growth at that point and grow upward from there. The top section, cut back to a length of 2-3 feet or less can be propagated at the base of the plant or in its own small pot.

It is quite normal for indoor plants to lose older, lower leaves as they add new growth on top. Regular pruning is the only solution for controlling excessive height and lower leaf loss.

I have written detailed articles on pruning and on Schefflera care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com