Question
I have 2 Schefflera plants. One is about 16 years old and the other is many more years older than that. I have read about how to transplant them. My still seem to be alive and well but have become very woody with no signs of growth from the bottom. Should I just throw these or can I actually cut the long stems and transplant from that.

Thanks for your attention to my question.

Carolyn Richardson

Answer
You can propagate the stems, but only from new growth. The stems must be soft and supple, otherwise, they will not root.

If you do have a supple stem, prune it six inches from the top and immediately place it in water. You should then remove all but the top four leaves. Dip the bottom of the stem in rooting compound, and then transplant the stem into a 6" pot with good potting soil. Cover the seedling with light clear plastic after watering, and place the pot near a window which gets plenty of light. After 2 weeks, the seedling should root. You can then remove the plastic and treat it as you would any new plant.

Good luck, and have a good week.

Mike