Caring for a Braided Schefflera arboricola from a Funeral

Helping a Sentimental Schefflera Adjust and Thrive

Angela received a 3–4 ft braided schefflera from her grandfather's funeral. Roots show through the pot; many leaves are falling.

Immediate Care

• Do not repot yet – wait 6 months. Trim roots exiting drainage holes with scissors.
• Leaf drop is normal – greenhouse-grown plants shed leaves when moved to lower home light. Remove yellowed leaves; don't leave them on soil.
• Light: Right in front of north/east window or slightly off west. Rotate quarter-turn weekly.
• Water: Allow top ½ inch to dry, then water thoroughly. After a few months, let top inch dry.
• Fertilizer: After 1 year, monthly at half-strength if growing vigorously.
• Repot later: Only if needing water >2×/week after 6 months.

Long-Term Shape

Scheffleras become leggy with age. Prune any stem at any point; new growth emerges below the cut. Prune low to encourage bushiness.