How to Take Cuttings From a Schifflera Plant

Overview

Schefflera (Schefflera actinophylla) is a popular, easy to care for houseplant, although in warm regions of the country it can be grown in the landscape. It thrives in full sun or partial shade in a variety of soil textures. When grown indoors, schefflera's height can be controlled by topping, or cutting off the top of the plant. Schefflera is hardy to USDA zones10a to 11.

Step 1

Take a 4-to-6 inch cutting from the tip of the schefflera plant. Make the cutting below a leaf. Remove all leaves except for two at the top of the cutting.

Step 2

Pour equal parts of sand and potting mix into a planting pot. Water it until water runs from the bottom of the pot and allow it to drain completely.

Step 3

Poke a planting hole into the soil that's large enough to accommodate the schefflerea cutting.

Step 4

Dip the cut end of the schefflera stem into rooting hormone. Place the end of the stem into the soil, burying at least one leaf node (area on the stem where a leaf was attached). Pack the soil around the cutting and tamp the soil down lightly with your hands.

Step 5

Place the cutting in a plastic bag, secure it and place it in an area that is out of direct sunlight and remains at least 60 degrees F. Your cutting should root in four to six weeks. If you tug on it lightly and feel resistance, the cutting has developed roots and can be removed from the plastic bag.