Question

leaf discolour  

plant   Hi Will,

I stumbled across your website after searching unsuccessfully for a definitive answer on the web. My Schefflera has recently started to shed discoloured leaves after years of healthy branch and leaf growth. It sits in a well lit place in a conservatory and behind net curtains so it doesn`t get fried by direct sunlight. The growing tips have also started to go black and shrivel. Can`t say I`ve done anything differently that I have been doing for the last few years and have fed and watered as per normal over this summer. It probably hasn`t been repotted for 5 years but has never complained before. The pot`s about 30cm in diameter. Any help would be really appreciated

many thanks in advance

Andy

Answer
Hi Andy,

Blackening of new growth is usually associated with root rot. Other possibilities are exposure to cold or chemical, but I assume neither of these apply in this situation.

It is easy to get into a watering routine that works well for a while, but requires checking periodically to account for changes in the plant's metabolism. As plants age they tend to use less water than when they are younger.

If the planter does not have drain holes or the drain holes are clogged, then that is the problem. You will have to either find another planter with drain holes or unclog the holes in the existing pot.

Otherwise, you have been watering a bit too often so that soil cannot properly dy out. Allow the soil to dry one-third of the way deep into the pot before watering. Add just enough water so that it reaches that level of dryness again within a week. Frequent drying out is essential for healthy roots. Stop fertilizing altogether.

Increasing the light by opening the curtains partially will help, especially as the days shorten and direct sun is not really a problem, especially in the UK. Keeping the plant warm will also help. I suggest that you prune your Aboricola to keep it more manageable looking.

I have written 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].

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

If this information has been helpful, please click the Rate Volunteer bar below and enter a rating and nomination for me. I am a volunteer on this site so Ratings are the only compensation I receive for answering plant questions.

Need more information? Visit my website at:
A link to HorticulturalHelp.com

or email me at [email protected] or call me at 917-887-8601 (EST)
 
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com