Dwarf Umbrella Tree

This plant should be watered when the top half inch of soil is dry. Water until it streams out from the pot’s drainage hole and then let the soil dry out before watering again. When humidity is very low, mist the leaves with distilled water. Overwatering can cause yellowing of the foliage and root rot.

Schefflera arboricola prefers bright, indirect or filtered light. When new growth appears, it may need more light. Avoid exposure to direct afternoon sunlight, as this can damage the plant. Move it to a shadier spot in the summer if needed. Variegated varieties tend to be brighter light plants; when there is insufficient light these plants usually lose their variegation.

The Dwarf Umbrella Tree prefers to be in temperatures between 65°F (18°C) to 73°F (23°C) during the day and around 64°F (18°C) at night. Extreme temperatures should be avoided.

This plant prefers more humidity than most houseplants. It's advised not to let the humidity drop below 50%, but it can retain some moisture if it is planted in a well-draining potting soil. Keep the humidity around the plant high by placing near a humidifier or a damp towel, misting the leaves occasionally, and setting the shade to a maximum level.

Schefflera arboricola prefers a well-draining and slightly acidic soil. A potting mix composed of 1 part perlite, 1 part peat moss, and 1 part soil-based mix such as African Violet or Orchid mix is an ideal media for this plant. Organic fertilizer can be applied per label instructions.

Fertilize Schefflera arboricola every two weeks during the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer, like a 20-20-20 or 15-15-15. During the fall and winter months, fertilization should be reduced to once a month. The best fertilizer choice is an organic fertilizer, such as fish emulsion or seaweed extract, as these are gentle on the roots of the plant.

The Dwarf Umbrella Tree is not a very common target for pests. Sometimes, however, it can be affected by mealybugs, aphids, thrips, spider mites and scale. To control small populations of these pests, a light spray of horticultural oil will usually do the trick. If the problem persists, an application of insecticidal soap or neem oil may be necessary. Monitor the plant regularly, as the moment pests are noticed, treatment should be administered immediately to prevent an outbreak.

The Dwarf Umbrella Tree doesn't need to be repotted often. Repotting can be done when the plant is root bound or when the top growth exceeds the size of the current pot. It is best to repot during the spring, as the plant will have a better chance of settling in before winter temperatures arrive. Use a pot with drainage holes in the bottom and a well-draining potting soil.

Pruning isn't necessary for this plant, however it can be done to keep it looking tidy or to shape it. If it gets too big or lanky, the top can be trimmed off. Prune in the late spring or early summer when the growth is still soft and young. Prune the stems back to a stronger stem or lateral bud just above the node. Make sure to use garden shears and sanitize between pruning each plant.

Mulch should be used in planting pots to conserve moisture and improve soil fertility. Good choice of organic mulch to use for this species might be pine bark nuggets, cedar chips and cocoa hulls. It is important to keep the mulch at least one inch away from the stem of the plant.

Dwarf Umbrella Tree can be propagated by seed or from stem cuttings. From seed it is best to use the fresh harvested seeds. Soak them in warm water overnight and then plant in a well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide filtered light. To propagate by stem cuttings, take a cutting of a healthy stem that is at least 6-8 inches long. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Plant the cutting into the potting soil with the bottom half of the stem beneath the soil's surface. Water the soil well and keep in a warm spot with filtered light.

When planted indoors, Schefflera arboricola may need a stake for support if it grows too tall or lanky. Go with a natural mate such as bamboo to support the plant. Make sure the stake is securely placed and it's best to stake the plant in a cool and shady spot.

Dwarf Umbrella Tree shouldn't really need a rest period as long as it is watered and fertilized properly and is kept in a well-lit spot. However, it does need some downtime during the winter months. Keep it cooler and water sparingly during this period and it should recover over spring.

No, the Umbrella Tree is not considered to be toxic to pets.