Question
I received a Schefflera plant about 3 years ago and I have repotted it twice, since it has outgrown its original pot. It has the larger size leaves, but it is so tall that the top leaves bend over because the ceiling is in the way. Can I 'prune' it and repot what I cut? I need expert help, please.
Thank you so much for your time,
Pam Mosconi

Answer
Hi Pam,

Scheffleras do need to be pruned back periodically as they do tend to grow through the ceiling when they are well-cared for. You can prune as far back as you like as new growth will emerge and grow upward from a point on the stem just below where you make the pruning cut.

Thick-stemmed plants like Scheffleras do not root readily in water or moist soil, so to propagate them you have to use a technique called air-layering. 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.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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