How to Propagate Umbrella Plant

Umbrella plants (Schefflera arboricola) are a popular houseplant due to their attractive foliage and easy care requirements. If you want to expand your collection or share your plant with a friend, propagation is an excellent option. Here's how to propagate umbrella plant.

Propagating Umbrella Plant by Stem Cuttings

1. Select a healthy stem. Choose a stem that has at least three leaves and is approximately four to six inches long.

2. Cut the stem. Use a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors to take a cutting from the stem just below a node (where the leaves meet the stem).

3. Remove the bottom leaves. Strip off the leaves from the bottom one-third to one-half of the stem.

4. Dip the stem in rooting hormone. This step is optional, but it can increase the chances of success. Follow the instructions on the rooting hormone package for best results.

5. Plant the stem in a potting mix. Make a hole in the soil with a pencil and insert the stem. Firm the soil around the stem and water well.

6. Cover with a plastic bag. Place a clear plastic bag over the pot and secure it with a rubber band. This will create a mini greenhouse, keeping the cutting moist and warm.

7. Provide bright but indirect light. Place the pot in a well-lit area away from direct sunlight.

8. Wait patiently. It may take several weeks for the cutting to grow roots. Do not disturb the cutting during this time.

9. Remove the bag. Once the cutting has rooted and is growing new leaves, remove the plastic bag and continue to care for the plant as usual.

Propagating Umbrella Plant by Air Layering

1. Select a healthy stem. Choose a stem that is flexible enough to bend, but not too thick.

2. Make a cut in the stem. Use a sharp knife to make a diagonal cut approximately one-third of the way through the stem.

3. Apply rooting hormone. Dust the exposed area with rooting hormone powder.

4. Wrap with damp sphagnum moss. Wrap the cut area with damp sphagnum moss and secure it with plastic wrap.

5. Wait. It may take several weeks for roots to form. Check the moss periodically to make sure it stays moist.

6. Cut the stem. Once the roots have formed, cut the stem just below the rooted section and pot it up in fresh soil.

Propagating Umbrella Plant by Seeds

1. Collect ripe seeds. The seeds of umbrella plants are small and black when ripe.

2. Soak the seeds. Place the seeds in a cup of room temperature water and soak them for 24 hours.

3. Plant the seeds. Sow the seeds on the surface of a potting mix and cover them lightly.

4. Provide bright but indirect light. Place the pot in a well-lit area away from direct sunlight.

5. Keep the soil moist. Water the potting mix as needed to keep it evenly moist.

6. Wait. It may take several weeks for the seeds to germinate. Be patient and continue to care for the plant as usual once it sprouts.

In conclusion, propagating umbrella plant is an easy and rewarding way to expand your plant collection. Whether you choose to use stem cuttings, air layering, or seeds, with a little patience and care, you'll soon have new plants to enjoy.