Rooting a Schefflera Basal Shoot: Humidity Chamber Method

Stephen removed a basal shoot from his schefflera with nascent roots. The three-leaflet leaves are normal for juvenile growth—they'll mature to the typical 7–9 leaflets.

Rooting Protocol

1. Pot in moist (not wet) potting mix.
2. Cover pot with a clear plastic bag for humidity.
3. Place in bright indirect light (northwest window or under fluorescents).
4. Mist when surface feels dry.
5. Check for roots in 4 weeks (gentle tug = resistance).
6. Once rooted, remove bag and treat as a normal plant.

High humidity prevents the cutting from drying out before roots can support it. The leaflet count will increase as the plant matures.