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Text and photo: Laura Pigeon
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Today, I want to talk to you about a houseplant that I am very fond of: the ficus! The ficus is a relatively easy plant in my opinion. When given the right care, it can become a very large plant and can serve as a great decoration for a room. One thing I really like about ficus is that they are fast-growing plants and always have a new leaf ready to grow.
How to care for your ficus?
As for watering, it hates being forgotten for too long. I recommend letting the soil dry out a bit on the surface between waterings, but not letting it dry out TOO much. So, regular watering, when the soil is dry on the first few cm, until the water drains into the saucer.
Regarding light, the more sun the ficus gets, the happier it will be! So, it is preferable for it to be in a well-sunny spot. In a window facing west or south is ideal. If natural light is not sufficient, using a grow light will be welcome (especially in autumn and winter).
What type of soil does the ficus like?
I recommend repotting it in a fairly draining soil mix to avoid root rot. You can also repot it in regular indoor plant soil or potting mix without any issues. It is important to ensure that the soil dries out properly between waterings.
I advise cleaning your ficus leaves regularly. About once a week to remove dust. Dust prevents our plants from photosynthesizing properly. Ficus generally have fairly rigid leaves and tend to attract a bit more dust than some plants. My trick? Use microfiber gloves and spray the leaves with water and a bit of black soap. This cleans the leaves while preventing unwanted insects. Can the ficus be propagated? Yes! And very easily in my opinion. I have managed to make 3 cuttings so far. Just cut below a node and then place it in water, sphagnum moss, or perlite to root it. The roots can take about 1 month to appear, sometimes a bit longer.
Different types of ficus
Besides being a beautiful plant, there are many species and varieties! Here are a few that I have at home and that I really appreciate.
Ficus lyrata
This ficus is about 6 years old. It is one of my favorite plants in my house. Since we built the house, it has been part of the master bedroom decor. Today, it is over 6 feet tall. Mine has 3 trunks, which gives it a fuller look. It has lost many leaves at the base due to some minor moving shocks. One thing to remember with Ficus lyrata in my opinion: it doesn’t like to be moved. Once you find its space, leave it there!
Ficus elastica Burgundy
It is often called “rubber plant” because of the appearance of its leaves, which resemble the rubber plant. I find it relatively easy and it grows quite quickly. Its darker look with its darker leaves really gives the plant a different appearance.
Ficus elastica Tineke
The Ficus Tineke is from the same species as Burgundy except its leaves are not the same color: they are a lighter green with a lot of white variegation. This one is my favorite! I find it so beautiful with the color variation!
Ficus shivereana Moonshine
This one I find particularly easy and beautiful! It has pale green variegation all over its leaves. It’s truly a lovely plant that is easy to care for. Often sold in small sizes, I suggest buying it small to watch it grow visibly!
Ficus elastica Robusta (Melany)
To conclude, I present to you the Ficus Robusta! It is green like the F. lyrata, but its leaf texture is like that of the F. elastica (rubber style). However, this one has wider and rounder leaves. It’s a very beautiful green plant!
To conclude this article on ficus, we can say that these versatile and elegant plants add a natural and tropical touch to our interior decoration. No matter which one you choose, there is a ficus suitable for every style and level of gardening experience.
Never forget to check the specific needs of your ficus so it can grow in full health. I hope this article makes you want to adopt one!
Tips and advice
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