How to Repot Schefflera House Plants

Schefflera is a tropical plant, growing 8 feet or taller, that is often used as a decorative house plant. When bought, it usually stands at 2 or 3 feet. As the plant grows, the roots will run out of space and growth slows significantly. In order for the schefflera to reach its potential height and fill out properly it must be repotted. Knowledge of how to do this properly will help your plant thrive in the home environment.

Things You'll Need

• Larger pot
• Potting medium
• Water

Instructions

1. Look for signs that the schefflera needs a new pot. In some cases, you will be able to see roots on the surface of the soil. In most cases, however, the plant with stop growing vigorously and need to be watered more often.

2. Fill a pot that is 2 inches in diameter larger than the current pot for the plant with two inches of sterile potting soil. The potting medium should ideally consist of three parts sphagnum peat, one part vermiculite and one part perlite.

3. Water the schefflera, only dampening the soil. Then take your plant out of its current pot by holding the top of the root ball and tipping the pot towards upside down. It should basically fall into your hand. Do not pull hard at the stem or you could injure the plant.

4. Place the plant in the new pot. Fill potting soil around the plant up to the soil level of the original plant. Tamp the soil down around the base of the plant firmly, but gently.

5. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting to give it a good start. After that, resume your former watering schedule, allowing the top of the soil to dry 1/2 inch before watering.

References

• Clemson Extension: Schefflera
• University of Missouri Extension: Caring for Houseplants