Question
Last year I acquired a shefflera actinophyyla indoor cliamatized in a 3 gallon pot with overall height 5'. I transplanted into a pot 3 times that size and have seen rapid growth till now. The plant is now about 10' tall. It is in a conservatory with a cieling of 25' and full sunlight.The problem is all new foilage is deformed and black. No signs of pests.

Answer
Hi David,

Darkened new growth usually indicates root rot, but given the healthy new growth you have had since you repotted, I doubt that is the case. However, you should check to make sure that there is no accumulation of water in the lower portion of the pot and make sure that you are letting the top several inches of soil dry between waterings.

Excess heat can also cause foliage to darken. It is possible that temps are building up in the upper area of your conservatory and are damaging the new growth that is up high.

If your tap water is on the hard side, it is possible that the mineral salts from the hard water have accumulated to toxic levels in the soil and are now starting to affect new growth.

Finally, I would note that the intensity of the sunlight may be greater above 10 feet and the leaves are being burned by the light.

So those are some possibilities for you to consider. Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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