Can I Start a New Schefflera Plant in Water?

Schefflera plants are popular houseplants known for their lush, tropical foliage and easy care. If you have a mature schefflera plant and would like to propagate new plants, you may be wondering if you can start a new schefflera plant in water. The short answer is yes, but there are some important things to keep in mind when propagating schefflera plants in water.

What You Will Need

To start a new schefflera plant in water, you will need a few things:

A mature schefflera plant

A sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears

A clean glass jar or vase

Filtered or distilled water

Rooting hormone (optional)

The Propagation Process

The first step in propagating a schefflera plant in water is to take a cutting from a healthy, mature plant. Cut a branch that is at least 6 inches long and has several leaves. Make the cut just below a leaf node, which is where the leaf attaches to the stem. Remove any leaves from the bottom 2 or 3 inches of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top.

Fill a clean glass jar or vase with filtered or distilled water. If you wish, you can add a small amount of rooting hormone to the water to help stimulate root growth. Place the cutting in the water so that the bottom 2 or 3 inches are submerged. Be sure that no leaves are touching the water, as this can cause them to rot.

Place the jar or vase in a bright, indirect location with consistent temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Replace the water every few days to keep it fresh and oxygenated. After a few weeks, you should start to see roots growing from the bottom of the stem.

Transplanting the Cutting

Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system, it is time to transplant it into soil. Choose a well-draining potting mix and a pot that is slightly larger than the rootball of the cutting. Gently remove the cutting from the water, being careful not to damage the delicate roots.

Fill the pot with potting mix and create a hole in the middle for the rootball. Place the cutting in the soil and fill in around it with additional potting mix. Press the soil down firmly to eliminate any air pockets. Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a warm, bright location.

Tips for Success

Propagating schefflera plants in water can be a rewarding and easy way to expand your plant collection. Here are a few tips to ensure success:

Choose a healthy, mature plant to take cuttings from

Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to prevent damage or infection

Keep the cutting in a bright, indirect location with consistent temperatures

Replace the water every few days to keep it fresh and oxygenated

Be patient, as it can take several weeks for roots to develop

With a little patience and care, you can successfully start a new schefflera plant in water and enjoy its vibrant foliage for years to come.