Climate and Sunlight

• Though commonly grown as a houseplant, you can also grow your dwarf umbrella tree outside if you live in a frost-free climate. U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9b through 11 are best for outdoor growth, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Native to the sub-tropical forests of Taiwan, these shrubs like warm, humid climates. And though, according to the University of Florida Central Florida Research and Education Center, they tolerate temperatures ranging from 35 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, these plants do best in air temperatures ranging from 65 to 90 degrees.
  
  They also tolerate dry conditions, but prefer humidity. To increase humidity for indoor plants, place them on top of a tray of pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it will humidify the surrounding air.
  
  Due to their wide sunlight tolerance, schefflera arboricolas are great shrubs for planting in partially shady areas or homes with limited sunlight. They grow in best in partial sun, but will tolerate full shade as well as partial or full sun. Too little light, however, will cause your tree to become spindly and stretch toward the nearest light source.
  
  

Soil and Water

• Dwarf umbrella trees tolerate a wide range of soil types including slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, as well as clay, sand and loam. They prefer slightly alkaline soil, so add lime to your soil if necessary. These plants are quite drought tolerant and should never be left to sit in saturated soil. It's best to allow soil to become dry between watering, spacing waterings seven to 10 days apart. Giving your schefflera arboricola too much water will cause the roots to rot, eventually causing leaves to turn black and fall off. Though tolerant of drier soil, leaves that wrinkle toward the tip are signs you are under watering. It's important to choose soil with excellent drainage to avoid root rot.
  
  

Pests

• Luckily, schefflera arboricolas have few pest issues. Indoor plants may have mild to moderate issues with scale and spider mites. To control mites, wipe leaves, both top and bottom, with soapy water regularly. Infestations are rarely serious enough to affect the long-term health of your plant.