How to prune Schefflera

When to prune Schefflera

It is best to prune Schefflera around the Qingming Festival, when the plant enters the growing season from its dormant period. It will branch out vigorously in the spring, allowing it to grow well. Pruning and adjustment should be carried out when the old plant is too large.

The cuttings of Schefflera are carried out between April and September. Choose one-year-old branches, cut off the lower leaves, and then insert them into the prepared substrate. Shade them in the later stage and spray water frequently to maintain humidity. They will take root in about a month.

Schefflera pruning branches

Top pinching: When the branches of Schefflera grow to about 20 cm, top pinching should be done immediately to remove part of the upper branches, leaving two-thirds of the original branches to promote the growth of side branches.

Thinning out dense branches: Schefflera grows vigorously and has strong germination ability. It is necessary to deal with the densely growing branches of the plant, remove the withered and yellow branches, and then thin out the dense branches to increase light transmittance.

Root pruning: Schefflera grows fast and has a well-developed root system. The pot needs to be replaced every spring. The roots can be pruned to remove rotten roots and increase the root's ability to absorb water and fertilizer.

Schefflera pruning tips

Schefflera is best pruned in spring, when many new buds sprout and pruning is beneficial to the growth of new buds. Therefore, it is not recommended to prune in winter and summer because the growth is very slow at this time.

If you want to prevent the Schefflera from overgrowing, you can prune it when it is growing vigorously, cutting off some intersecting and overly dense branches and leaving strong branches.

Schefflera pruning and flowering

Generally speaking, after the Schefflera grows to a certain height, it can be pruned and topped for the first time. Then, after the side branches grow luxuriantly, the next pruning can be carried out. In this way, the Schefflera will become lush and leafy.

Precautions for pruning Schefflera

Schefflera is an ornamental plant, and aesthetics is very important. In addition to basic pruning, it is also necessary to prune according to the shape. It can be pruned from the bottom gradually upwards, pruning it into the shape of a pagoda, so that the branches below can grow vigorously.