Did you solve your problem? I just came across this thread.. sounds very yucky to me, to say the least! If it is a Schefflera (sp?), they are VERY easy to cut the stems off and root (meaning, even I have done it quite a few times). I would suggest cutting the tops off somewhere above the soil line, take off the lower leaves, stick them all in a vase full of water and wait for the roots to pop out. And get rid of the pot full of whatever kind of 'pedes they are! Honest, I've had cuttings live in water for months while they were waiting for me to get around to doing something with them. Hope you have better luck with all future plants!
