Schefflera Sunburn Recovery: Moving a Mature Plant Indoors

Diagnosis: Sunburn

Texas sun is far too intense for a Schefflera that's been indoors. 60% leaf scorch is severe but not fatal if the stems are alive.

Rescue Steps

1. Trim off all brown, brittle leaves.
2. Prune stems back by ⅓ to ½—this reduces demand on damaged roots.
3. Move the plant inside to a bright, uncovered window (no direct sun).
4. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Recovery

New growth will emerge from the pruned stems within weeks. It will be adapted to indoor light and look healthy. The 30-year-old plant has plenty of stored energy to bounce back.