Watering
Ficus bonsai trees need to be kept well hydrated, but they generally do best if you let them dry out between watering. The soil should still be somewhat damp, but not completely dry. You should feel the soil daily, and make sure that you never let your bonsai tree go for extended periods of time dry. A Ficus does best with a pot that contains well drainage holes, and you should soak your tree for five to ten minutes before allowing it to drain. Water regularly during summer, and then reduce the moisture level during the dormant stages of winter. This will keep your plant alive, and thriving.Soil and Potting
All Ficus trees do well with moss growing in the soil, so when choosing which soil to buy it is important to find moss in the ingredients. Other ingredients include clay, lava rock and bark, which should obtain equal parts inorganic and organic. A healthy Ficus grows rapidly, and should be checked every year for repotting, but older Ficus trees can be repotted every other year. No matter if you buy premixed soil, or you make your own, it is important to find fresh products that are rich and will drain easily.Training your Ficus Bonsai
All Ficus trees can outgrow your bonsai pot and home quickly if they are not adequately trimmed and pinched. We recommend that you check for new growth often, and trim whenever you feel that your bonsai needs. A Ficus is a fun tree for bonsai enthusiasts of all levels because you can trim frequently without harming the growth and health. If the bonsai is overgrowing or growing the wrong direction, do not be afraid to trim it. The Ficus generally do best when they remain natural and upright, however you can train the trunk and branches with bonsai wires that can curve and give a unique look to your Ficus tree.The art form of bonsai can be very frustrating if you do not follow instructions, such as the ones above. We recommend a mild climate for a Ficus bonsai that does not need to be moved very often. Avoid cold drafts, and allow for adequate light and humidity for the best results. The most important note for this article is that you check the moisture levels regularly, no matter what type of bonsai tree you have obtained. The Ficus bonsai can provide many years of lush growth and beauty for your home.
The Ficus tree, also known as the rainforest fig, is a favorite amongst bonsai growers due to its exotic beauty. This tropical plant comes from a family with over 200 species and grows wild in the Southeast Asian forests.
The Ficus tree offers bonsai growers a very unique style. They have what is termed as ‘aerial roots’ which means that they grow their roots not only from the base of the trunk but also from their branches.
If you live in a non-tropical climate it is best that you keep your Ficus plant indoors, especially during winter. Have a fluorescent light with your plant under it. You can also place your Ficus bonsai in a window that has plenty of sunlight. Sudden changes in temperature might affect your plant’s growth and health.
Some Ficus species are more suitable for bonsai including the Ficus Salicifolia, which is also known as the Willow Leaf Fig or Narrow Leaf. This has small and narrow leaves, giving the branches excellent ramification. During humid conditions, this plant can produce good base and aerial roots. However, stressed plants drop their leaves so you should keep it in the best growing conditions. You can also select the Chinese Banyan, which is considered the classic ficus bonsai. The Chinese Banyan is very forgiving even when you keep it under poor growing circumstances and regenerates easily when vigorously pruned. This makes it an ideal starter tree.
The Green Island Fig is one of the most abundant figs for sale. Unlike the Chinese Banyan, this tree is less tolerant when exposed to low light intensity and if deprived of humidity this tree is likely to defoliate. Other Ficus species that are suitable for bonsai include the Port Jackson Fig, Morton Bay Fig and the Weeping Fig.
In caring for your Ficus bonsai, it is important to note it needs proper shelter, and regular watering and feeding. Place your bonsai in a room with a temperature not falling from 15˚C. Although they will not die when put in a lower temperature they will not be at their best. Apply fertilizer when you see that it is actively growing, during winter or when it seems sickly. High nitrogen fertilizers will aid proper plant growth.