Ficus bonsai 0.80-1 m

Ficus bonsai (usually Ficus retusa, Ficus microcarpa, or Ficus benjamina) is one of the most popular choices for bonsai enthusiasts, especially beginners, due to its resilience and adaptability. Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for your ficus bonsai:

1. Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light is ideal (e.g., near a south or east-facing window).

• Can tolerate lower light but may grow slower or drop leaves.

• Outdoor in summer? Yes, but acclimate gradually to avoid sunburn.

2. Watering

• Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy.

• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

• Avoid hard water (use filtered or rainwater if possible).

• Mist leaves occasionally to increase humidity (helps prevent leaf drop).

3. Soil & Repotting

• Well-draining mix: Bonsai soil with akadama, pumice, and lava rock works well.

• Repot every 2-3 years (young trees) or 3-5 years (mature trees) in spring.

• Prune roots moderately (remove ~1/3 of the root mass).

4. Pruning & Shaping

• Prune regularly to maintain shape—ficus back-buds well.

• Wire carefully: Use soft aluminum wire, but monitor to avoid bark scarring.

• Seal large cuts with cut paste to prevent infections.

• Defoliation (optional): Remove leaves in early summer to encourage smaller new growth.

5. Fertilizing

• Balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or bonsai-specific) every 2 weeks in growing season (spring–fall).

• Reduce to once a month in winter.

  • Organic options like fish emulsion or liquid seaweed also work.1111111111