Question
I have a darling Schefellera plant in a conatiner in my home which has grown from a tender sapling into a beautiful plant, almost a small tree. However I have never seen it bear any flowers and don't know how to propogate it. I have never tried to propagate it by cutting its stem, so could you advice. This tree must definitely bear flowers and why could it be that it hasn't so far. Its been 3 years since I''ve had it in my house. Thanks so much.

Answer
Rajita,

Scheflera rarely bloom as potted plants. They do bloom when they are planted in the ground in a tropical area and they are about 20 years old.

They can be propagated from cuttings or air layering. If you take cuttings first use sharp scissors and cut off 75% of each leaflet then dip it in rooting hormone and insert it in a fresh pot of soil. Then water it lightly and put it in a clear plastic bag and keep it in a sunny location.

For instructions on air layering go to the following site:
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/ornamentals/airlayer/airlayer.html

If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene