That will not work. That may, may, get you roots to start growing, but that won't get buds popping. I don't think Scheffs like to backbud all that well unfortunately...

While the back-budding won't be all that vigerous it will happen. All you have to do is cut it back to where you want, it will do the rest of the work.

Bob

I'm sorry to hear that, but not surprised. I've raised several of these plants, successfully forced aerial roots and never had a problem with leaves volunteering -- especially in the wrong places -- but that was when I lived in hot, steamy Georgia. Now at 2,000 ft elevation in North Carolina, this plant is a challenge.
We'll probably do the obvious: whack it back to a likely spot.
Thanks for the response to you both.
Krys

Back-budding depends a lot on the vitality of the plant at the time of pruning, and the time of year. You'll get the best results by pruning trees that are growing earnestly in July and August - when their energy reserves are approaching peak. The species and cultivar have a LOT to do with how profusely a tree will back-bud as well. Some of the dwarf varieties like 'Luseane' are reliable in their back-budding ways, doing so profusely with regularity, while the sp plants are less reliable. Still, they can be induced to fill out nicely with patience, lots of light, and your ability to provide the cultural conditions that keep them happy.

Don't forget defoliation as a way of inducing back-budding. When I bring mine out in the spring, I'll plop them into full sun (the leaves burn & fall off within a week or so) or simply defoliate (not suggested if the plant is weak). This ALWAYS forces back-budding, smaller leaves, and a new flush of growth already conditioned to full sun conditions.

Not a bonsai, but I've had this plant in my office for many years where it grows behind blue tinted windows that reduce visible light by 51% (I own a glass company). It's full and healthy in spite of the reduced light, credit going to a healthy soil and a favorable nutrient supplementation program:

{{gwi:3149}}

Al