Will My Shefflera Survive?

Question

My husband exposed my shefflera plant, which was about 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, to 10 degree temperatures for about 10 min. The plant was shocked and turned brown. I have trimmed off all the leaves in hopes that it will recover. Any other suggestions? Do you think my plant has any chance of survival? Thank you for your time.

Answer 1

I am always optimistic in cases like this so I wouldn't throw it out just yet. It's possible only the top growth was damaged and it will come back from the roots. (I've included an article link that says some outdoor specimens do that.)

Did the stems turn brown too, or just the leaves? The second article I'm attaching says to cut damaged stems all the way back. If they are green you don't need to. I'm sure you've given it a drink of water to help it. Shefflera don't need fertilizer but if you want to give it a diluted boost of fertilizer that might help.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/schefflera/outdoor-schefflera-care.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/tips-for-saving-cold-damaged-plants.htm