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How to Cut the Schefflera Root

Schefflera plants may grow into bonsai trees with beautiful foliage and intricate aerial root systems. With the proper pruning techniques, you can encourage a schefflera plant to produce these visible roots that resemble a larger banyan tree in appearance. Cut the schefflera roots to coax the plant to grow the way you desire. With frequent pruning, the plant will grow energetically into a striking plant with interesting characteristics.

Things You'll Need

  • Bonsai scissors (convex shears)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the schefflera plant's lateral branches that stem from the main plant stem. From this lateral growth, you may begin seeing aerial roots extending down toward the soil.

    • 2

      Select small roots that you wish to energize. Cut these roots off from the branches with the bonsai scissors flush with the branches. This will encourage the roots to branch with bushier, renewed growth.

    • 3

      Allow the aerial roots to recover from the pruning. Monitor the growth as the aerial roots progress down toward the soil level.

    • 4

      Trim the aerial roots again to rejuvenate them and encourage bushier growth. Cut the roots back 1 to 2 inches with the bonsai scissors when they grow about halfway between the branches and the soil level.

    • 5

      Continue trimming the aerial roots regularly to encourage rapid root growth. With regular pruning, the schefflera plant will develop a thick aerial root system that resembles a banyan tree's thick trunk.