Can a Shefflera (umbrella plant) be pruned?

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rainman73 Warsaw, IN May 02, 2008

I have a shefflera (umbrella plant) that has the typical segmented somewhat woody stem/trunk. The bottom 1/3 of this 4' plant is very leafy and lush and does very well outside in northern Indiana weather throughout the summer months. The very top just consists of a couple twin leaflets, while the middle 1/3, approximately 15" is totally bare. Can this plant be pruned (cut off the top) and if so, can the removed top be used to start another plant? How is this type of plant pruned?
Thank you all in advance for any help that you may provide.
And as always - stay green!
Dan

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swampguy Baton Rouge, LA May 02, 2008

Yes, with ease. The plant will grow somewhat leggy if not pruned. I prune mine ever few years to keep the size down. I also stick the parts I have pruned off in pots and they sprout just fine. Then I pass them on to others. Good pruning!

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plantladylin (Zone 1) May 02, 2008

I have two Schefflera's: http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/37035/ planted in my yard that were originally house plants years ago. They can be pruned and yes you can root the top. I have cut branches off of my trees at times and rooted them and given them to neighbors. To be able to root the top, make sure it is hard wood ... too green and soft, it will rot on you.

Post #4895969
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rainman73 Warsaw, IN May 03, 2008

Thank you so much for your posts, help and suggestions.
I have just a couple more questions:
I am so afraid that I may kill the plant if not pruned correctly. When I lop off the top, should I cut it right above a leave/branch spout or the "segment" line above the branch? What happens to the exposed cut? Should I put the pruned off top in potting soil or suspend in water to get it to start roots?
Thanks again,
Dan

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