Question
My sheffelera is in an atrium and one branch is over 15' tall and very difficult to manage.  I am considering reducing the size of this limb and starting a 2nd plant.  Because of the woody size of the stem I'm not sure it will root.  Please advise how to propagate this limb.

Answer
Hi Carole,

A Schefflera tip cutting will root pretty readily in moist potting mix. A tip cutting is usually about 12 inches long and has only a couple of sets of leaves from the very top of the pruned of stem. You may want to prune off more than  just this tip from the tall branch. If you do, then cut off the lower, woody portion that will be more difficult to root. The green, upper portion will root more easily.

If you want to propagate a larger section that includes some woody stem, then you will have to air layer, which is a more complicated procedure. If so, let me know and I will send you my air-layer instructions.

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

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

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

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