Question
Hello - I've been reading other questions/answers regarding the care of schefflera's but none have really answered my question.  I inherited this plant, and was uncertain of it's care, so I believe that I initially overwatered, then probably under watered.. and finally moved to a once a week schedule which seemed to please the plant.. I only give it about 1-2 cups of water. The plant has one main stem and two branches forming a V the branches are almost 3ft. It is in a 8.25" pot.  However, the plant leaves look very very droopy like they need more water.. also some leaves are turning yellow and falling off.. I can't determine if the droopiness of the leaves is due to overwater or underwater or if it could be related to soil? I have the plant on my office window sill where it gets great light during the day, so I don't think that is the issue.  Appreciate any thoughts..  

Answer
Hi Lesley,

"Droopy" is a very subjective term and means different things to different people. It is hard for me to evaluate your Schefflera without seeing a photo of it and its droopiness. It may be that the droopiness is quite normal and there is no problem. Some lower leaf loss is also normal. Let's hope that is the case.

If you can email a photo to me at [email protected], I will be better able to assist you. Please include at least one photo that shows the entire plant and its pot.

In the interim, I can provide some suggestions. If your plant perks up after you water it, then that is a good indication that you are letting it get too dry. If not, then you can rule out underwatering.

If the roots have been compromised by overwatering, then they are not able to absorb water properly. The result is that the plant wilts because it is not getting enough water through the stems, even though there is plenty of soil moisture. The solution is to let the soil dry out more deeply into the pot.

The pot may be a bit too large for your single-stemmed Schefflera and that may be encouraging root rot.

When you water, always add enough water so that the entire rootball is saturated and the excess water runs through the drainage holes. Then wait until the top 2 inches of soil feels dry before watering again. You may be providing too little water too often.

I agree that light is probably not an issue. What can you tell me about the soil quality?

I look forward to your reply.

Regards,
Will Creed