Schefflera Transplanting Issue.

Question

I’d like to thank you for your help in advance!! I’m unsure if my schefflera faces numerous issues or compounded symptoms from one. I’ve had it for about 15 years & it’s always grown healthy, perky leafs. In the last few years, leafs started to occasionally fall from the lower portion of two main stalks. There is now a few feet on each with none. About a week ago, I repotted it in the same brand & type of soil I’ve always used for it & I think (hope) it’s suffering transplant shock. The stems are dropping, stems fall off the stalks daily, & it gets worse every day. I have four main questions: 1) Does this appear to be transplant shock that will subside in a few weeks? 2) If I cut off the leafless part of the stalk, will the leafy ends propagate in water or soil? 3) Should I only fertilize May through September & 8 weeks after transplanting?4) What are the best ingredients & type of fertilizer for my plant? Thank you!

Answer 1

I would say that transplant shock is likely. Fortunately, these come back from shock pretty well.

I would prune it. In half, if you would like. They are very tolerant of hard pruning.

I would, then, feed it. Since it is indoors, there will be no dormancy. If you use a liquid feed, then do so every few months. If you feed by adding compost, then you should do this twice per year.

Otherwise, they are not picky.

Here is a collection of articles that will help you with the care of the shrub:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/schefflera