The Umbrella tree is a one-of-a-kind and fast-growing plant, reaching up to 6ft. in height indoors. Its easy to care for and has attractive, oval-shaped leaves that add an elegant touch to your living space. And, like with other houseplants, its possible to multiply it and create more Umbrella plants from a single plant. So, if you wonder how to propagate a Schefflera Gold Capella plant, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, well take a look at the three proven techniques for Umbrella plant propagation, and share with you some helpful post-propagation tips for your baby Scheffleras. Lets get started without further ado.
Umbrella plants, also known as Schefflera or dwarf umbrella trees, are popular houseplants native to tropical regions of Australia and Asia With their lush, hand-shaped leaves and easygoing nature, it’s no wonder umbrella plants are a staple in many homes
If you already have an umbrella plant and want to multiply your collection propagating or cloning your plant is a great option. Propagation allows you to create genetically identical new plants from a parent plant through asexual reproduction.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about successfully propagating your umbrella plant at home through stem cuttings.
An Overview of Umbrella Plant Propagation
Umbrella plants can be propagated through:
- Seeds
- Stem cuttings
- Air layering
However, propagating from seeds can be tricky as they often have low viability. Stem cuttings are the easiest and most reliable method for beginners.
Propagating umbrella plants through stem cuttings involves:
- Taking a cutting from the parent plant
- Helping it form roots in water or soil
- Planting the new plantlet in soil once rooted
This produces a genetically identical clone of the parent plant. The clone will have all the same features and characteristics as the parent.
Step-by-Step Guide to Propagating with Stem Cuttings
Follow these simple steps for propagating umbrella plants through stem cuttings:
Choose a Healthy Parent Plant
Pick a healthy umbrella plant as the parent plant for your cuttings. Avoid taking cuttings from any plants that are stressed, diseased, or infested with pests.
The best time for propagation is during the active growing season in spring and summer.
Select a Stem Cutting
Identify a stem on the umbrella plant that can be used for cuttings. Select a stem that is healthy, mature, and has several leaves toward the tip.
The cutting should be 3-6 inches long. Use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears to take your cutting.
Optional – Dip Cutting in Rooting Hormone
While not required, dipping the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone can help stimulate faster root growth. Tap off any excess powder.
Root in Water or Soil
You have two options for rooting your cutting:
Water: Place the cutting in a jar of room temperature water. Change the water every 2-3 days.
Soil: Stick the cutting in a pot with well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist.
Provide Warmth and Humidity
Maintain a temperature around 70-80°F and high humidity around the cutting while it develops roots. Consider using a propagation mat or tray to provide bottom heat.
Monitor Watering and Growth
Don’t oversaturate the rooting medium but don’t let it completely dry out either. Check regularly for root development.
Look for new growth as an indication roots have formed. This may take several weeks or longer.
Transplant Rooted Cutting
Once the cutting has an established root system, transplant it into a container with fresh potting mix suitable for umbrella plants.
Gradually acclimate it to normal indoor conditions. Water when the top inch of soil becomes dry.
Common Questions about Umbrella Plant Propagation
propagating umbrella plant
What’s the best way to propagate an umbrella plant?
Stem cuttings are the easiest and most foolproof propagation method. Cuttings taken in spring and summer and rooted in water have the highest success rate.
How long does it take for umbrella plant cuttings to root?
Expect it to take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks for roots to form, depending on conditions. Warmer temperatures and higher humidity shorten rooting time.
What type of stem cutting should I use?
Look for semi-mature stems that are 3-6 inches long. The stem should have 2-3 sets of leaves toward the tip. Avoid very thin, weak stems.
When is the best time to take umbrella plant cuttings?
Spring and summer are ideal for propagation when plants are actively growing. However, cuttings can be taken year-round as long as proper care is provided.
Should I use rooting hormone on umbrella plant cuttings?
Rooting hormone is optional but can help speed up the growth of roots, especially when rooting cuttings in soil. Use a powder or gel product designed for houseplants.
How can I increase the humidity for my cuttings?
Use a propagation dome or tray, place the pot inside a plastic bag, or routinely mist the cuttings to boost humidity around the leaves while roots develop.
What causes umbrella plant cuttings to fail?
Overwatering, underwatering, low temperatures, low humidity, and disease/pests are common causes of propagation failure. Always start with healthy parent plants and cuttings.
How do I care for newly rooted umbrella plant cuttings?
Once rooted, pot up the young plant in a well-draining potting mix. Water when the top inch of soil dries out. Avoid direct sun. Gradually transition to normal care over 2-3 weeks.
Troubleshooting Problems with Umbrella Plant Propagation
If your umbrella plant cuttings aren’t rooting successfully or new plants fail to establish, here are some common issues and solutions:
Few roots or no roots forming:
- Increase humidity and warmth around cuttings
- Change water or moisten soil more frequently
- Use younger, more herbaceous growth for cuttings
Leaves turning yellow/brown:
- Avoid overwatering or saturated soil
- Provide brighter, indirect light after transplanting
Stem shriveling or becoming mushy:
- Replace water or soil more often to prevent rotting
- Don’t allow cuttings to dry out completely
New growth dying:
- Acclimate plantlet slowly to indoor conditions
- Check for pests like spider mites or scale
- Use well-draining soil and don’t overwater
Roots develop but no new leaves:
- Ensure stem cutting wasn’t taken from a weak location
- Allow more time for leaves to emerge after repotting
Final Tips for Umbrella Plant Propagation Success
- Start with a healthy parent plant free of pests/disease
- Use a sharp, clean cutting tool to prevent infections
- Change water every 2-3 days and avoid stagnant conditions
- Warmth + humidity are vital for quick root formation
- Don’t disturb or tug on roots to check progress
- Acclimate new plants slowly to avoid transplant shock
- Maintain proper watering, light, and humidity after repotting
Propagating umbrella plants through stem cuttings is an easy, rewarding way to expand your plant collection. Follow the steps outlined in this beginner’s guide and you’ll be on your way to umbrella plant propagation success!
Q: How long do Schefflera cuttings take to root?
A: With proper care and attention, your Schefflera cuttings should root within 3 to 4 weeks. Soil propagation usually produces stronger roots than rooting your plant in water.
Umbrella Plant Propagation From Stem Cuttings in Water
You can also propagate your Umbrella tree stem cuttings in water by following these steps:
- Take 8-10 cm long stem cuttings from your Umbrella plant, and trim the bottom-end leaves, if needed.
- Fill a glass jar or container with water at room temperature, and place the cuttings into it.
- Move the jar to a warm, humid place with bright but indirect sunlight.
- Monitor over a few weeks until the new roots start showing up.
- Once the roots are at least 2.5 cm long, transplant the stem cutting into pots with soil.