Ficus trees are perhaps the most popular indoor decorative trees grown. The ficus benjamina – weeping fig – in particular is one of the most popular of the 800 species available. Their popularity is certainly not as a result of its easy care but rather, its beauty. Ficus trees are very temperamental requiring constant vigilance in its care. Ficus trees can become stressed by simple actions such as moving from one room to another or even from one end of a room to another. Proper ficus tree care is essential to keep these plants healthy. The ficus’ popularity, coupled with their temperament, was a motivating factor in launching Starbright’s exclusive Plant Care Maintenance Program.
Ficus Tree Care:
The ficus tree is a true creature of habit. It does not like change. Consistency is the key factor in its care.
Sunlight: Bright sunlight during the day, but should not be in full sun all day.
Temperature: The optimum temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Consistency is key-ficus trees should not place next to heaters or vents that create varied temperatures.
Watering: The soil should be kept moist but not wet, in a well draining pot to prevent root rot. The rule of the green thumb is to water after the top inch or two of soil has dried. Avoid overwatering your ficus! The most common mistake people make is to add more water once the leaves begin to turn yellow. This is the opposite of what you should do.
Humidity: Misting the tree frequently while it is young or adjusting to a new location, can help it maintain its humidity. Helpful time saving hint is to make a humidity tray by filling the plant saucer with gravel. The runoff water will evaporate through the plant, providing additional humidity.
Fertilizer: During growth periods, feed the plant every three to four weeks. Use a regular liquid fertilizer for indoor plants diluted to half the strength recommended on the package label. Decrease fertilizing in autumn and do not fertilize during the winter.
Trouble shooting leaf loss: Proper ficus tree care can help minimize leaf loss. Ficus trees commonly lose up to a quarter of its leaves after an environmental change. Diligent care can help mitigate additional stress. If leaves turn yellow just prior to dropping off, it is a sign of over-watering. Dull leaves may indicate a need for fertilizer.
These tips are brought to you by The Official Florist. The Official Florist is the blogging arm of Starbright Floral Design. We are a full-service corporate and retail florist located in the heart of New York City’s Historic Flower District. We are at 150 West 28th Street (Studio 201). To learn more about our organization and about the type of work that we do, please visit our website at www.starflor.com.
You may also order a gift by visiting our e-portal at www.starbrightnyc.com. Starbright is open seven days a week and we deliver flowers and other gifts in Manhattan and worldwide. We invite you to give us a call or visit our website.
Thank you for visiting our blog. Always “at your service”,
The Official Florist – Starbright Floral Design
“The Official Florist of the City that Never Sleeps”
t.800.520.8999
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