How to cultivate Schefflera arborvitae

Schefflera is an evergreen shrub of the Araliaceae family. It prefers warm, humid, semi-sunny environment and is suitable for growing in deep and fertile acidic soil. The suitable temperature for growth is 16~27℃. The commonly used propagation methods are sowing propagation and cutting propagation.

Schefflera likes moisture and is afraid of dryness. When the air humidity is high and the soil has sufficient water, the stems and leaves grow lushly. The plant can adapt to a wide range of light and can generally grow in full sun, half sun or semi-shade environments.

Watering method

The number of watering times varies in different seasons. Water twice a week in spring and autumn. In summer, when the temperature is high, it is necessary to ensure that the plants receive a certain amount of water. Water once a day to keep the soil moist. Water if it is not dry. Control water appropriately in winter.

Fertilization method

March to September is the growing season of Schefflera arborvitae. Apply compound fertilizer and cake fertilizer water every 2 to 3 weeks. Do not apply too much fertilizer to variegated varieties, otherwise the leaves will turn green and become ugly. Less nitrogen fertilizer should be applied to variegated varieties to prevent the spots on the leaves from fading or disappearing.

Pruning methods

Schefflera tends to grow branches too long, so you should pay attention to shaping and pruning to promote the sprouting of side branches. Young plants should be thinned and pruned lightly to focus on shaping. Old plants can be repotted and heavily pruned by cutting off most of the branches and part of the roots, and re-potted to allow new leaves to sprout.

Precautions for the cultivation of Schefflera

When cultivating Schefflera arborvitae, it should be kept in a cool place during the summer growing season. For outdoor cultivation, a 70% shade net should be used to prevent exposure to the scorching sun, avoid leaf burns and dull leaf color. No shading is required in winter. It grows well with more than 4 hours of direct sunlight a day.