Schefflera 'Gold Capella' Decline: Sun, Water, and Fungus Gnats

Memie's Gold Capella (June purchase): rapid leaf loss → moved to porch for summer → thrived. Brought in without pest check → declined. White wingless hopping bugs in saucer. Down to few leaf clusters.

Diagnosis

• Not blight. Likely low light + improper watering.
• White hopping bugs = fungus gnats or leafhoppers → overwatering sign.

Gold Capella Needs

• Direct sun: East/west window, blinds open all day.
• Water: Well, then dry well. Indoors: max every 5–7 days.
• Drainage hole mandatory. No standing water in saucer.

Fix

• Cut water → gnats disappear.
• Spray gnats with rubbing alcohol.
• More sun + less water → new growth.