Ficus Tree

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Ficus Tree

The ficus is a tropical, evergreen tree. There are almost 600 species that come under this genus. Some of the more common ficus trees are deciduous too. Ficus trees produce a fruit that is very unique in that the fruit is actually an inverted flower. Some of these fruits are edible too.

The Ficus Benjamina is also called the 'Weeping Fig'. These are one of the most popular indoor trees. It is normal for a ficus to lose about 18-22 percent of its foliage when it is adapting to a new environment. Even when the ficus tree is moved from one room to another, the tree will shed a lot of leaves. Ficus trees respond very favorably when they are placed in a light shade when they are outdoors. Light, fresh air, humidity and rainwater are some of the common requirements of this tree.

When they are placed outside in such conditions, healthy green leaves grow abundantly. But when the temperatures start dropping and the nighttime temperature is below 50 degrees, it is time for the Ficus tree to go indoors. They will lose more leaves if the weather is still cooler. Therefore, during the cooler months, place the ficus near the brightest windows, and wipe the dust off the leaves once in a week.

The Ficus tree comes from areas that have clearly marked seasonal changes. The tree will lose its leaves when the weather is dry. At such a time, there is no growth and the tree rests. As the rains approach, there is rapid growth and leaves start sprouting fast. At this time, it is necessary to water the plant more. Thus the amount of water the ficus tree needs is directly proportional to the amount of sunlight and heat it receives. When the roots occupy the pot completely, the water will overrun the pot without penetrating the roots. In that case the water does not do anything good. Therefore pots should be checked periodically. When the roots have grown enough, it is better to place the tree in a pot that is one size bigger. It is recommended to keep the soil moist, but it should never be soggy, as this will make the roots rot.

When the ficus tree is placed outside, it is susceptible to attacks from insects. During such a time, the plant has to be closely inspected for spider mites, mealy bugs and scales. If insects are found, they can be washed off the plant using a forceful jet of fresh water. If the insects are too many in number, you may need to use an insecticidal soap spray to get rid of these. Make sure that there are no insects on the plant when you bring them indoors. As the tree grows, a weekly check of water, soil and insects will keep the plant growing happily. The tree requires to be shaped and pruned in the spring time.

Ficus is also one of the most favored bonsais. This is an easy tree for the beginner to look after. Most species of Ficus grow fast, tolerate a wide variety of soil types and are generally very forgiving of those learning bonsai techniques. Ficus bonsais naturally grow 'Banyan' roots, and this display is simply stunning. The Ficus tree has to be fed every two weeks during the period of growth. In winter feeding the tree once in 4-6 weeks is also sufficient. Depending upon the rate of growth, the tree will have to be repotted. Some ficus trees need repotting only once in 2-3 years, others will need it every year. Although the Ficus tree can be repotted at any time of the year, spring time is probably the best time for repotting. It is easy to root the plant from cuttings. Ficus can be grown from seed also. But they require heat and humidity and can easily succumb to mold.

Ficus tree