Ficus bonsai is one of the best species for starters and bonsai experts. This is mainly because of the fact that it is very forgiving and tolerant to very low amount of sunlight and humidity. These varieties can generally be grown indoors and requires very little attention. Here are some simple instructions in caring for your Ficus bonsai.
There is a peculiar way of watering that fig trees love. It wants to “breath” in between watering sessions. The best practices of doing this is by soaking your bonsai in a water container for a maximum of 10 minutes and allowing the water to drain. Another way to water the plant is to pour water, just like the normal process, pause for a few minutes then water again. This process will be repeated until enough water is introduced to the plant. You will be able to know you are not doing the right thing because dry leaves can eventually be seen on the plant. Purchasing an affordable moister reader will be a great help to monitor the water content of the soil and to know when to water the plant again.
Humidity or misting must be maintained in order to make the leaves of the plant grow healthy and green. Fig bonsai trees can tolerate low humidity. However it is best to keep the humidity in normal level to optimize the growth of the plant. Using a humidity tray or a simple plate filled with stones and water can be used to keep humidity in the most favorable level. It is important to note that misting is not a substitute for watering.
Ficus bonsai must be kept inside the house during winter. They cannot tolerate extremely low temperatures. Black spots may occur on the leaves when exposed to temperature below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and eventually will fall off. In order to address this concern, you can display the plant on sunny spots or near the window indoors that will help regulate the temperature.
Fertilizing the tree is an essential part of Ficus bonsai care, to refill the soil with nutrients necessary for plant growth. It is perfect to fertilize the bonsai when new buds start to grow which happens during spring. The use of organic liquid fertilizers is recommended. Repotting of the bonsai must be done every two years to control the growth of the roots with the use of basic soil mixture. After repotting is done, Ficus must be placed on shady location for the first two weeks to five way for the roots grow.