Umbrella plant, also known as Schefflera arboricola, is a popular houseplant because of its attractive foliage and ease of care. This plant is native to Taiwan and Hainan and is commonly grown as a houseplant in temperate regions around the world. The umbrella plant has shiny, green leaves that resemble the shape of an umbrella, hence the name. In this article, we’ll discuss how to grow umbrella plant indoors.
When choosing a pot for your umbrella plant, it’s essential to consider the size and type of the plant. Umbrella plants can grow up to 10 feet tall in their natural habitat, but they can be kept shorter by pruning. For indoor cultivation, it’s best to choose a pot that is one size larger than the current container. A pot that is too small will restrict the plant’s growth, while a pot that is too large may cause waterlogging.
The pot should have drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to drain out. Choose a pot with sturdy construction, as the umbrella plant can grow heavy and topple over.
Umbrella plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite makes an excellent growing medium for this plant. Alternatively, you can use any high-quality commercial potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite.
Avoid using heavy soils like clay or garden soil as they tend to retain water and can lead to root rot. Also, avoid using soil mixes with high levels of fertilizer as they can burn the plant’s roots.
Umbrella plants require bright indirect light for optimal growth. Place your plant near a window that receives bright but filtered light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to avoid it. If you don’t have a window that gets bright light, you can use artificial light, such as fluorescent or LED lights.
Umbrella plants prefer evenly moist soil, but they don’t like sitting in water. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Always ensure that the pot has good drainage, and never let the plant sit in water for an extended period.
During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows down. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common problem with umbrella plants.
Umbrella plants do not require frequent fertilization, but occasional feeding during the growing season can promote healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, every two months during the growing season.
Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause excessive leaf growth and weak stems.
Umbrella plants can grow tall and lanky if left unpruned. To keep your plant looking compact and bushy, prune it regularly. Prune any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s health.
You can also pinch back new growth to encourage branching and promote a fuller appearance. Use clean pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Umbrella plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Take a 6-inch cutting from the parent plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a pot filled with moist soil.
Place the pot in bright indirect light and keep the soil moist. In a few weeks, roots will develop, and new growth will emerge from the stem cutting.
A: Yes, umbrella plant is toxic to pets. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth and throat if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.
A: Yellowing leaves are a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture level and adjust the watering frequency accordingly. Also, ensure that the plant is not receiving direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
A: While umbrella plants prefer bright indirect light, they can tolerate low light conditions. However, the plant may grow slowly and have smaller leaves in low light.
A: Umbrella plants do not require frequent fertilization. Feed your plant every two months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause excessive leaf growth and weak stems.
A: Yes, umbrella plants can be grown in terrariums as long as they receive adequate light and air circulation. Use a well-draining soil mix and ensure that the terrarium has good drainage.