schefflera arboricola
· your plant will look stressed, wiring bent or shifted, droopy, or slightly messy after several days in transit— this is normal. it is a hardy plant and will bounce back quickly.
· your plant may not look “finished” day one. settling, repositioning and adjustment is part of the process.
· carefully unbox right away, remove all packaging, and give it fresh air and bright indirect light.
· let it rest 3-5 days before reshaping, pruning or repotting.
· do not water immediately unless the soil is fully dry.
shaping & wiring
· wiring edges may be sharp.
· this is a plant in training, not a fixed object. shaping is collaborative. each plant is unique and will change over time.
· not every stem is wired—this is intentional. selective wiring is used to guide general structure while allowing natural growth and flexibility.
· wire is temporary. leave only as it’s guiding the shape and lignifying (hardening into wood), then remove.
· prune and shape any way you’d like! to adjust, gently bend wired stems into desired position.
· go slowly. make small adjustments over time. do not force bends.
· use sunlight to your advantage—leaves and new growth will naturally move toward light.
· check wire regularly and remove/adjust before it presses into the stem. when removing wire, use a very gentle, patient hand.
· if a petiole snaps, it does not harm the plant and often triggers new growth.
· if wire is left on too long, light scarring may occur—this is normal and does not harm the plant. it is often considered part of its unique character.
· brown areas on the trunk are normal and desirable—they indicate the stem is hardening into wood and strengthening, often appearing first at bends.
if you have any questions or concerns, please let us know!
text: 775-235-8020