Umbrella tree care: watering, light and repotting
Also called schefflera, dwarf umbrella tree · Schefflera arboricola · Araliaceae family
14 d in winter
How often to water the umbrella tree?
Allow about 8 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 14 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Tough and fast-growing. Prune it in spring so it branches, and let the top of the soil dry out.
Misting every 10 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The umbrella tree likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 3–6 ft (1–2 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Falling leaves
Cause: Too much water or not enough light. What to do: Let it dry out and move it closer to a window.
Sticky leaves
Cause: Scale insects or aphids. What to do: Shower the foliage and treat with soft soap.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the umbrella tree?
About every 8 days in spring and summer, and every 2 weeks in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the umbrella tree?
The umbrella tree likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the umbrella tree?
Yes, misting every 10 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the umbrella tree?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the umbrella tree safe?
The umbrella tree is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the umbrella tree forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.