Ficus Black or Ficus Benjamin

Ficus Black or Ficus Benjamin

Ficus is a pan-tropical genus of trees, shrubs and vines occupying a wide variety of ecological niches; most are evergreen, but some deciduous species are endemic to areas outside of the tropics and to higher elevations. Always popular ficus tree is a member of the fig family and perfect for caring for as a houseplant. There are several varieties of this plant that are grown as houseplants. Among these are the ficus Benjamina or weeping fig, the Licus lyrata or fiddle head fig, and the ficus elastica decora or rubber tree. The Bodhi tree, under which the Buddha achieved enlightenment, is believed by many to have been a Ficus religiosa. The most popular as an indoor tree is the ficus benjamina.

Plant care tips:

Sunlight: Most ficus trees enjoy bright indirect or filtered light with variegated varieties happily able to take medium light. Bright, direct light may result in scalding of the leaves and leaf loss.
Watering: When watering, always check the top of the soil first. If the top of the soil is wet, do not water as this means they have enough moisture. If the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, this indicates that they need water.
Soil: Rich, humus and well-drained soil
Maintenance: low maintenance
Special feature: ficus trees can maintain their tree-like shape regardless of their size, so this makes them ideal for bonsai or for massive houseplants in large spaces. The plant is used for ornamental purpose
Repotting: When a plant outgrows in current pot, re-pot with fresh potting soil and some fertilizer
Propagation: Weeping Fig propagation is best done by growing stem cuttings in soil or water, but they can also be propagated by air layering. Water and soil propagation have a higher success rate than air layering. It’s essential to watch the cuttings closely as they develop, particularly during the early stages of their growth.

Plant problems & protection:

• The ficus tree does not tolerate waterlogging. This leads to root rot and can result in severe leaf loss, as water and nutrients can no longer be transported to the leaves in sufficient quantities. In this case, repot your Ficus benjamina in fresh, permeable soil and be sure to create a drainage layer. After watering, the water must be removed from the planter.
• Ficus tree does not feel comfortable in a draught. If there is no other cause for the leaf drop, you should check the site conditions and find a new place for the Benjamin fig
  Ficus benjamina needs slightly higher humidity, which can be achieved with occasional spraying, for example. Dry and hot air can cause it to shed its leaves and also encourage pest infestations.