Question
I have a 23 year old Sheflera that is now about 12' tall.  It is currently producing new growth, which is a good thing!  But I've encountered a new problem with it and need advice on what it is and how to take care of it.  The leaves are falling off, brown spot appears close to where it attaches to sten, stem is also dark.  There is some discharge on the leave and stem area as well.  This has an odor to it, not quite like the usual "resin" smell that sometimes occurs naturally, but similar.  Otherwise the plant appears healthy.  Thank you kindly for any advice you may be able to offer.

Jane
Colorado


Answer
Jane,

Is this happening mostly to leaves in shaded areas?  It sounds like what happens to small sheffs that aren't getting enough light. It may be shading itself out a bit too much.  It can be pruned pretty severely (even by half) and it will send out new growth shortly after you prune it. Pruning will most likely cause it to get a lot bushier.

You can also solve it by rotating it into the sun regularly. Just make any cuts above a leaf joint. If the problem is not in the shaded areas of the plant write again. Have you inspected it thoroughly for insects? Check for little scabs or spots on the backs of the leaves, if they flick off with your fingernail the spots are an insect called scale. Let me know if you find that.

Darlene