Question
I have a type of umbrella tree (I believe), which has been losing leaves near the stem base.  The leaves get distinct yellow lines down main veins and the leaves lighten in color overall.  The bottom of the stem is becoming woody looking.
My question is, what is going on with my plant?  I got it at about 6 inches in September 2005 and it was kept inside.  Then, last summer I let it stay outside in a screened porch.  The issues just started in about September.  I repotted it into a very large pot at that time and started watering it less as this is what I suspected may have been the issue.  The first winter I had it, I watered it 1-2 times a week and it was very happy about that.

I will send pictures of the stem base and a leaf that have the yellow vein lines.  Thanks, Lauren

Answer
Hi Lauren,

Thanks for the photos.

Your Schefflera arboricola looks quite healthy and I did not see any symptoms that cause me concern. The loss of some lower leaves as the lower stems develop a bark covering is a normal part of its maturing process.

My only concern is the very large pot that it is in. Large pots do not make plants grow faster, bigger or healthier. If anything, they do the opposite. You now must be very careful to allow the soil to dry out at least 3 inches deep into the pot before you water. When you do water, add just enough so that the top 3 inches of soil dry out again in about a week. If in doubt, water less.

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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