Question
With what and how often do I fertilize my unbrella plant?

Answer
Hi Dorie,

Fertilizer is over-promoted and over-rated as to its benefits for potted indoor plants, including Scheffleras. Indoor plants use very little nutrients and providing an abundnace of nutrients will not promote better growth. In fact, there is a greater danger of creating toxic levels of nutrients when they are over-used.

Most potting mixes have more than enough nutrients to last for 1-2 years. So if your plant is new or you have repotted recently, then don't use fertilizer. If it has been in the same soil for at least a year, then you can use any standard fertilizer, but only at half-strength monthly and only when the plant is healthy and growing actively.

A standard fertilizer would be in a 3-1-2 ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium and would contain trace elements, as well. Brand name is irrelevant.

If you want all the details on fertilizer, I have written an articel on the topic that I will email to anyone who sends a request to me at [email protected]

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