Ficus Tree Care

Ficus tree grows widely in tropical and temperate climates and is found in the regions of South and Southeast Asia and Australia. Ficus is a favorite among the houseplants and is also occasionally used for landscaping purposes. It can be grown both indoor and outdoor, but needs a lot of care and attention to flourish properly. This tree is known for its elegant drooping foliage, with a rich color that can vary from light to dark green. Though it prefers bright sunlight, it is not suitable for places exposed to full sun for the whole day. If grown properly, ficus tree can truly add beauty to your house and its surrounding.

Ficus Tree Care Instructions
Ficus tree is very sensitive to even the slightest changes in the environment, like changes in temperature and humidity. Therefore, one has to take care of everything, right from the place selected for planting and the level of humidity, to watering and pruning. Here is a ficus tree care guide, that will help you to understand the specific needs and requirements of this plant.

Planting a Ficus Tree
While planting a ficus tree, one should keep in mind that it is a tree with aggressive and extensive root system. Therefore, replanting may be required once it starts spreading its vigorous roots. So, those growing ficus tree in pots or container, should replant the tree in a larger pot after some time, to provide it enough space in order to thrive properly. Another factor that can play an important role in the growth of ficus tree is lighting conditions. The tree can be grown in both shade and sunlight. However, it is preferable to grow it in a place that gets enough bright and filtered sunlight. But, make sure not to expose it to full sun for the entire day. Also keep them away from heaters or vents and large windows, as the plant is very sensitive to temperature changes. The ideal temperature range for ficus tree is 65 to 75 degree Fahrenheit.

Watering Instructions
Moderate watering is enough to ensure proper growth of ficus tree. Both over and under watering should be avoided, as it requires moist and not wet soil to flourish. So, be sure to check the moisture level of the soil before watering ficus tree. You can do this by inserting your finger a few inches deep into the soil. If the soil is moist for a few inches at the top, then watering is not required. But, if you feel that the soil is dry, then water it immediately. Generally, water requirement would depend on the amount of sunlight the tree receives. When it is getting lots of sunlight, it would need more water and vice versa.

To ensure proper drainage, you would require a humidity tray to collect the extra water. It would also help to maintain the level of humidity, as the evaporated water from the tray will increase humidity. Along with humidity tray, you will also have to moist the plant occasionally, especially in the early stages. If leaves of your ficus tree are turning yellow, it means you are over watering the plant.

Ficus Tree Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of ficus plants care. It not only helps in maintaining a good shape and size, but also promotes growth. If you observe any dead and diseased or insect infected leaf, then immediately remove it. The common insects that can attack your ficus tree are mealybugs, scale and spider mites. However, insect problems are not so frequent in ficus tree. Like diseased leaves, the dead twigs should also be removed. Such twigs will be more commonly found in the inner branches, as they do not receive adequate sunlight. But, be careful not to tear the branches of the tree while pruning, instead cut them smoothly. Tearing would make the plant more susceptible to diseases and infections.

To sum up it can be safely said that, lots of patience, diligence and attention are required for ficus tree care, pruning as well as maintenance. Ficus tree can also be grown as a bonsai tree. Sometimes, you may observe that the plant is losing some foliage. But it is not a major problem and such loss in foliage can take place due to the sensitivity of the plant, to changes in climate and environment. In winter, the tree may lose some foliage, which will return during the rainy season. Besides that, even changing the location can induce foliage loss in ficus tree. Solution to such problems lies in adequate care and maintenance and in regulating the level of humidity and temperature.