Arborea (Schefflera) Care in Non-Draining Pots: Repot Now

Five 7-ft Arborae (likely Schefflera actinophylla or arboricola) in non-draining ceramic pots are doomed without change. You’ve lost plants to watering guesswork—here’s the fix.

Immediate Repotting

1. Move each to a plastic pot with drainage holes, slightly smaller than the ceramic cachepot.
2. Set plastic pot inside ceramic one (double-potting).
3. Now you can remove, drain, and monitor moisture.

Watering with a Meter

Buy a $10 moisture meter. Water only when probe reads dry halfway down. Roots need air between waterings—this prevents rot.

Fertilizer

Water-soluble (Miracle-Gro or similar) at label strength during growth. Stop in winter.

Identification

Email photo to plantlady6@yahoo.com for exact species ID and tailored advice.

Drainage is non-negotiable. Fix the pots, use a meter, and your Arborae will thrive.