The variegated umbrella plant (Schefflera arboricola ‘Variegata’) is a popular houseplant known for its striking foliage. The variegated leaves feature a mix of green, cream, and yellow colors, making it a beautiful addition to any indoor space. If you’re a fan of this plant and want to grow more of it, propagation is the way to go. Here’s how to propagate variegated umbrella plant the right way.
Before we dive into the propagation process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
The easiest and most common way to propagate variegated umbrella plant is through stem cuttings. Here’s how:
Select a healthy stem from the parent plant. Look for a stem that has several leaves and no signs of damage or disease.
Using clean pruning shears, cut the stem just below a node (the point where a leaf attaches to the stem). The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long.
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
Dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone (optional).
Fill a small pot or container with potting soil mixed with perlite or sand. Make a hole in the center of the soil with your finger.
Insert the cutting into the hole and gently press the soil around it.
Water the cutting thoroughly.
Cover the pot with a plastic bag or dome to create a mini greenhouse and retain humidity.
Place the pot in bright, indirect light.
Check the cutting regularly and water as needed to keep the soil moist.
After a few weeks, you should start to see new growth emerging from the top of the cutting. This is a sign that roots are forming!
Once the cutting has a good root system, usually after 6-8 weeks, it’s ready to be transplanted into its own pot.
Another way to propagate variegated umbrella plant is through air layering. This method takes a bit more time and effort but can be more successful than stem cuttings.
Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and make a small cut about 1/3 of the way through the stem, just below a node.
Wrap moist sphagnum moss around the cut and cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Secure the moss and wrap with twine or wire.
Wait several weeks for roots to form around the moss.
Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the moss ball and pot it up.
Water your propagated plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
Variegated umbrella plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves.
It can take some time for newly propagated plants to establish themselves and start growing. Be patient and continue to provide them with proper care. If after several months you still see no growth, there may be an issue with the soil or light conditions.
While some plants can be propagated in water, variegated umbrella plant is not one of them. It’s best to stick to soil or air layering propagation methods.
In conclusion, propagating variegated umbrella plant can be a fun and rewarding way to expand your collection of this beautiful houseplant. Whether you choose stem cuttings or air layering, following the steps outlined above will give you the best chance of success. Happy propagating!