What are the cultivation methods for the umbrella tree?
The umbrella tree, also known as the octopus tree or Schefflera arboricola. It can tolerate low-light conditions and prefers partial shade, making it very suitable as an indoor cultivated plant and one of the most popular indoor cultivated plants in the world. Next, let us take a look at how to cultivate the umbrella tree.
The umbrella tree can be cultivated for a long time in a bright and well-ventilated home for everyday ornamental enjoyment. Its growth temperature is 15-25°C, and in winter it should not go below 5°C, so the plant can continue to grow.
The umbrella tree has strong adaptability. It can not only grow in conditions of high air humidity and ample soil and water, but also grow in dry environments. During cultivation, older plants grown indoors can have their large sections pruned appropriately, or part of the root system can be cut away and the plant replanted.
Cultivation Methods for the Umbrella Tree
The umbrella tree can be cultivated using peat soil and leaf mold, mixed with 1/3 perlite and base fertilizer. About 4 hours of direct sunlight per day can accelerate the growth of the umbrella tree, making it a plant that can be enjoyed for a long time.
In spring, summer, and autumn, water once every 3-4 days. Do not use too much water, otherwise the roots will become waterlogged and rot. During the summer growing season, fertilize once a week as appropriate, using a mixed fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other nutrients for cultivation. Every spring, before the umbrella tree's new buds sprout, the pot should be changed, the old soil removed, and new soil added.
If the plant is a perennial old specimen, during cultivation it needs to be pruned or repotted at appropriate times. Normally, because the umbrella tree grows relatively slowly, regular shaping and pruning are also needed.
Precautions for Cultivating the Umbrella Tree
The umbrella tree is naturally quite robust and relatively easy to cultivate. For larger plants, before bringing them out in spring, the pot should be turned over and the plant appropriately shaped and pruned. For plants that are too tall and bare at the base, rejuvenation pruning can be done to promote the sprouting of new shoots. After being brought out, it should be placed in partial shade, and in summer care should be taken to shade it promptly and not let harsh sunlight shine directly on it. Keep the soil moist, and water promptly before it dries out completely. When the weather is dry, mist the plant to increase humidity; during the plum rain period, prevent water from accumulating in the pot. From May to September, apply 20% cake fertilizer water twice a month. For variegated varieties, if there is too much nitrogen fertilizer and weak light, the patches on the leaves will become less distinct. In addition, if the octopus tree is kept indoors for ornamental viewing for a long time, poor ventilation or too little light will cause the leaves to drop, which is worth the attention of growers.
After being brought indoors in early January, it should be placed in a cool room, and the temperature should not be lower than 5°C, otherwise it will cause leaf drop. The soil should be slightly moist, and the environment should not be too dry either. If the octopus tree needs to be propagated in large quantities, the sowing method can be used; for small quantities, division or cuttings can be used. Cuttings are best taken from May to July. The method is to cut green branches with 2-3 nodes and insert them into vermiculite, placing them in a shaded and humid place; they can take root in about 30 days.
The Effect of the Umbrella Tree on the Home Environment
The umbrella tree, also known as the octopus tree, has a graceful plant shape and strong adaptability. It is an excellent potted plant and can be placed on a balcony for ornamental viewing all year round, but it should not be placed in a place with harsh sunlight. It can also be arranged in a living room, study, or even bedroom.
The umbrella tree has the effect of absorbing nicotine and other harmful substances. It is especially suitable for planting in households with smokers. It can bring fresh air to smoking households; its leaves can absorb nicotine and other harmful substances released when cigarettes burn, and through photosynthesis convert them into substances the plant itself needs. In addition, the umbrella tree can reduce formaldehyde concentration by 9 mg per hour, making it the most suitable choice to place after home renovation.
The above is the complete content of the umbrella tree cultivation methods I have summarized for everyone. I hope this article can help everyone. Please also continue to follow us.