Ficus Tree

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Ficus Tree Care

The much loved and popular ficus tree is a popular plant that is grown at home and outdoors. Ficus trees are fast growers and adapt really well to their surroundings. Most popular ficus trees grow in tropical conditions. They do well when they are placed in warm sunshine, given lots of water and fed once a fortnight.

One of the most common problems that plague a ficus tree is the falling of leaves. Ficus tree is especially sensitive to changes in weather and temperatures etc. Even when the ficus tree is moved from one room to another, it may lose about 20 percent of its foliage. This is only natural. The plant usually sheds when the temperature drops. This is because there is a resting period when the temperature is low. The plant starts growing deep green leaves when spring comes.

The ficus tree needs plenty of water. The planting medium should be moist but should not become soggy. One of the reasons why the ficus tree has gained such popularity is that it is usually a very hardy plant and will forgive the beginner who has not yet learnt the tricks of the trade.

Most ficus trees will grow decently enough in low light, but the tree thrives in plenty of sunshine. Most ficus trees need a temperature above 55F. The ficus tree is an excellent choice for Bonsai cultivation. These trees appreciate getting out of doors during the summer months. They will need to be brought in during the winter months. The plants tend to stop growing in the fall, but show rapid growth patterns in the springtime. When growth is rapid, feeding and watering should also be high. Feed the plant once every 2 weeks at such a time. When growth subsides, it is enough to feed the plant once a month. When watering the plant, care must be given that the water reaches the roots. When the roots have grown aplenty in the pot, it is common for the water to overflow without penetrating the root knots. If the roots have occupied the pot, it is recommended to shift the plant to the next bigger size. Ficus trees will need to be repotted every 2-3 years. Repot the tree according to the rate of its growth. Some trees grow quite rapidly and will need to be repotted once every year. The best time of the year to repot a plant is in spring, just before the new growth occurs. If the roots have grown too much they can be pruned by half. Proper after-care has to be given when the plant is repotted or the roots have been trimmed. Water such plants only after a few days. Watch for signs of new growth. Feed the plant only after signs of new growth appear.

It is easy to propagate the ficus tree from root cuttings. Stick the new cuttings into the soil. An initial dose of fertilizer will help to initiate growth. Ficus can also be grown from seeds, though the success rate is not very encouraging. Ficus trees that are grown from seeds seem to more vulnerable to mold. They need heat and humidity in just the right quantities. Ficus trees that are properly watered and fed grow very happily whether they are the bonsai variety or the ordinary ones. However, one has to keep an eye open for pests such as mealy bugs, spider mites etc. If the pests have just started making an appearance, a good spray of fresh water is enough to rid the plant of these. But, an insecticide is recommended if the pest attack is more widespread and intense. While taking the ficus tree indoors, ensure that they are pest free.

Ficus tree