Question
I have a 20 year old Shiffalera Plant that is of control with branches growing in all directions and some are 10 feet high. It was given to me by a friend and I kept it on the deck all summer and it was happy. I recently brought it inside and now all the leaves are falling off. Is it possible for me to make a lot of small plants out of this huge monster?
I don't want to throw it away but it is too big for my home.
I hope you can help me.
Thanks,
Fran

Answer
Hi Fran,

Now you know why I am not enthusiastic about moving plants outside. They may thrive outside, but they often fare poorly when brought back inside and they can also outgrow their indoor homes.

Older, larger Scheffleras do not propagate easily, Tip cuttings with just a few leaves will sometimes root in plain water. Other stems have to be propagated by air-layering.

Air-layering is a method of propagating woody stem cuttings that are difficult to root in water or soil. It is a technique that allows the roots to develop on the cuttings before they are completely severed. Here is how to do it:

1. Pick the place that you want to cut the stem back to. At this point, take a sharp knife and cut a V-shaped notch one third of the way through the stem. This is where the new roots will develop and grow. Alternatively, remove the bark and outer layer of the stem in a one-inch band around the stem.

2. If you have rooting hormone, put it into the notch or on the exposed area. If you don't have it, don't worry about it.

3. Wrap a handful of damp sphagnum moss in a ball completely covering and surrounding the wound. The roots will grow into this moist sphagnum moss.

4. Place clear plastic wrap around the wad of moss covering the wound. Seal the plastic wrap tightly with tape or rubber bands. This must be airtight so the moss cannot dry out.

5. Wait patiently for roots to develop and grow into the moss. This usually takes a month or more. If you can't see anything after a month or so, carefully remove the plastic wrap and check for roots and to make sure the moss has not dried out.

6. When you have a healthy batch of roots growing in the moss, completely sever the stem just below the developing roots. Remove the plastic and pot your rooted cutting into a small pot.

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

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.