Question
I bought a dwarf umbrella tree which seems very healthy. I read the directions on the little piece of paper that came with the plant. The instructions say that the plant needs direct sunlight. So I put the plant (which is very small, 9 inches at most) in front of a window (inside the house). The soil was moist last night but when I checked the soil this morning it was very dry and I realized that the plant was dehydrated, leaves and some of the stems were soft because of dehydration. (it's 70 F outside now) So, is indirect sunlight better for dwarf umbrella tree? Or should I still put it under direct sunlight but keep the soil moist all the time but watering more frequently? ( I live in Cambridge, MA, and winter is coming, my house temperature during the winter is around 75 F, is it OK for this plant?)

Answer
Hi Betul,

I am surprised that the instructions recommended direct sun.  Although it can do well with a few hours of direct sun, it should have mostly bright indirect sun for most of the day. Right in front of a north or east window would be the best location.

If your Schefflera arboricola is in a small pot, as it should be, then you should water it as soon as the top half-inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

A temperature range of 55-85 degrees is fine.

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

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Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC