The story of the Ficus microcarpa
Ficus microcarpa or also Chinese fig or Indian laurel, is native to northern India, southern China and northern Australia. The Chinese fig is often used in tropical areas to provide shade on streets and, like us, as an ornamental plant.
With good care, this plant forms very pretty but inedible fruits. Unfortunately, in indoor culture it only very rarely develops flowers, which later become fruit through fertilization.
You can usually find this type of ficus in bonsai form, where the thick roots look very similar to ginseng. For this reason, the Chinese fig is also called "Ficus microcarpa ginseng". In the wild, the Ficus microcarpa can reach a size of over 25m. Another popular Ficus species is the Ficus Benjamina (Sweet Fig).
Whether as a real tree or as a small bonsai, the Ficus microcarpa cuts a fine figure in any form. However, this type of ficus is particularly popular with Bonsai Ficus "Ginseng". Due to the small growth habit and the thick roots, the "Chinese fig bonsai" is an incredibly decorative plant.
Have you always wanted to bring an Asian flair into your home and get this pretty little tree? Then we can give you a few exciting tips on location and care in the following article.
The right location for your Ficus microcarpa
The Ficus microcarpa likes it bright. It prefers a constantly warm and bright location without major temperature fluctuations. However, avoid a location with direct sunlight, as this can quickly burn the ficus.
Tip: If you want your Ficus microcarpa to stay vital and fresh, then ensure high humidity. For this you can simply place some water containers near the plant.
Chinese fig care: how it works!
The Chinese fig is very undemanding, only the right amount of water plays a major role. In just a few steps we will explain to you what to look out for with the Ficus microcarpa.
The optimal soil for the Chinese fig
Your ficus doesn't need any special soil, commercial potting soil is sufficient here.
How often do you water the Ficus microcarpa
Watering your ficus is a bit more difficult. It should always be kept moderately moist, because the root ball should not dry out completely. Unfortunately, the Ficus microcarpa is very sensitive to waterlogging, so make sure that excess water is removed immediately.
Tip: The irrigation water should be at room temperature, stale and as low in lime as possible.
How often does the Ficus microcarpa have to be fertilized?
Your Chinese fig should be fertilized about every 2 weeks from April to September.
You have to consider this when repotting
Young plants usually have to be repotted annually. If he's a bit bigger, it's enough for him every 2-3 years. As with almost every plant, we recommend repotting in spring.
Tip: However, do not choose a pot that is too large. If the roots of the ficus are a bit more restricted, the plant will become bushier.
Does the Ficus microcarpa have to be cut?
Unlike other bonsai, the Ficus Ginseng does not have to be cut at the roots. It is enough if you only remove a few branches that protrude from the crown. The older your ficus is, the less you ultimately have to cut it. If you have cut off too many branches, this is no problem for the Ficus microcarpa, because it will sprout again very quickly.
You should keep this in mind in winter
Between October and February, the Ficus microcarpa needs to be watered less, but it needs to be sprayed more often with lime-free water. Otherwise, the heating will make the air too dry for your Ficus. You only have to fertilize the houseplant every 6 weeks and the temperature must not fall below 15°C.
Would you like to learn more about overwintering plants? Then take a look at this article on the subject of Overwintering plants: this is how peppers, chili and co. over the winter.
Tip: Don't panic! In winter it can happen that your ficus loses some leaves due to the lack of light. However, he recovers quickly in the spring.
This is how you multiply your Ficus microcarpa
Ficus microcarpa is usually propagated vegetatively, which means it is propagated via parts of twigs and branches. To do this, cut a branch of your choice from the plant with at least 1-2 leaves and a length of 15 cm and place the lower end in a glass of water.
Place this jar in a bright, warm place at around 25-30°C and with high humidity. After a few weeks, small roots will form. Now you can plant the branch with roots and leaves in a pot of your choice.
Is the Ficus microcarpa poisonous?
Ficus microcarpa is poisonous in all parts of the plant. So put it in a protected place where neither children nor pets can reach it.
With our article Poisonous houseplants vs. non-toxic greenery you can learn more about houseplants that you may not have known are poisonous.
The right room for your Ficus microcarpa
A room with a lot of light and warmth is best. Maybe there is a place in your bathroom for your Chinese fig, because it also likes high humidity.
Tips if your Ficus microcarpa is not doing well
If your Ficus microcarpa sheds its leaves, there can be several reasons. He is sensitive to rapid changes in temperature, drafts, change of location and lack of light. If the irrigation water is too calcareous, you will see white deposits on the roots.
So try watering your plant with low-lime water. If you water too much, the roots of your ficus will start to rot and grow mold. If you repot it in time, you might be able to save it.
The Asian beauty is also available from us
Caring for the Ficus microcarpa is not difficult at all. Sufficient light and warmth are the most important. Make sure that the ficus is not too damp, otherwise the roots will start to rot. With our tips, you can easily care for the Ficus microcarpa.
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