I currently have a Brassia (umbrella tree) that is approximately 8 or 9 feet tall. Half way down the trunk there is a group of neww shoots that are doing quite well. The top of the tree is also doing quite well. My question is, I would like to split the tree in 2 as it won't fit in my living room anymore. How do I go about splitting the tree. What is the best method of propagating the tree? what is the best method of encouraging root growth for a health top half of the tree? Do I need to put anything on the top of the bottom half of the trunk to prevent dammage to the trunk from bugs, diseases, etc.? Thank you for your help if there is anyone that can help me. The top half of the tree is about 3-4 feet tall. Dwight Ferguson Toronto, Ontario
I guess, Dwight, your tree is a Schefflera Brassaia Actinophylla, seen here: <http://www.lagomania.com/schefflera.jpg> I haven't had that kind; mine are two kinds of Schefflera Arboricola. Branch cuttings of those will root in water (in late winter, I think). You asked: "What is the best method of propagating the tree?" Air layering is a pretty foolproof way to propagate; just about every propagation manual shows how. This looks like a very helpful page about your tree. And it suggests air layering: <http://www.bellaonline.com/ArticlesP/art36626.asp> Here is another interesting page: <http://www.seedsofknowledge.com/umbrellatree.html> It suggests to me (suckers readily) that if you cut the whole shebang off at the soil level (Don't sue me please!), the roots would quickly push up new growth. Hope that helps. Dino
