Question
Thank you for your reply about my umbrella plant. It is a Schefflera arboricola (variegata). It is in a position with plenty of light (not full sun) away from windows or any draught.I bought it about a year ago and have not re potted it. It is 18" high and in a 5" pot. I water it when it feels dry. I kill most house plants but this one has lasted longer than most so I am anxious to preserve it as my reputation within the family for killing off plants is notorious. (My sister only buys me silk flowers now!!) Could it be too cold for it as during the day the house temp. does drop considerably. Cheers
Jayne

Answer
Hi Jayne,

Your S. arboricola needs lots of very bright, indirect light all day long. That means it should be right in front of a north or east window or a bit to the side or a few feet back from a west or south window. If you don't get the light right, then nothing else matters.

The pot size is about right for an arboricola that size. However, you should water it thoroughly as soon as the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. There is not much leeway here.

As long as room temps stay above 50 degrees, cold should not be a problem.

I am not sure just what the problem is. Perhaps you let it get too dried out recently. Or perhaps it is too far away from the light. But if you provide proper light and water, it should be just fine. BTW, the loss of some lower leaves is quite normal as long as comparable new growth is being added on top.

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

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