Bonsai S

Description

Ficus retosa bonsai S

Ficus bonsai (rhubarb, micro carp, and ginseng) is an evergreen tree of the morace (mulberry) family and the most popular species of indoor bonsai. Natural care, proper pruning, and year-round growth, less susceptibility to pests, and beautiful aerial roots (misplaced roots) make Ficus an ideal choice for home or work and great for beginners (and professionals, of course).

Ficus is native to Taiwan, Malaysia, and East Asian countries. There are between 800 and 2000 species. They are very suitable for indoor and outdoor storage. But the most popular of these bonsai is the Ficus retosa, often sold as the “S” trunk

Note: Ficus leaves are poisonous to pets, can be dangerous if eaten and should be kept out of the reach of pets

Ficus retosa bonsai care:

Keeping place:

Ficus retosa or ginseng (micro carp) should be kept in a well- lit place, although it is also resistant to low light. It can be stored outdoors in spring and summer but the warmer months of the year. Put a shadow. Ficus bonsai should be kept indoors and warm during the colder months of the year. An excellent place to keep a bonsai near the south or west window. Be aware that direct sunlight from behind the window will damage your bonsai.

Temperature:

Ficus is native to the tropics and should be protected from the cold in autumn and winter. The minimum temperature for ficus is 15 degrees and not less than 10 degrees. The ideal temperature for keeping Ficus Petosa bonsai is the same temperature as your living room. Bonsai should not be placed near a heat source (such as a heater, stove, etc.) or against cold wind (such as an air conditioner).

Irrigation and humidity:

Irrigation of Ficus Petosa bonsai should be done when the soil is slightly dry, watering enough to get water out of the pot. Be careful that water does not remain on the surface of the soil and should drain quickly. Never allow the soil to dry completely. Ficus can sometimes tolerate over-irrigation and under-irrigation. But the continuation of the conditions leads to its drying up. Chlorine-free water at room temperature is suitable for irrigation.

Ficus can withstand drought. It is recommended daily for succulent bonsai, but it Ghbarpashy (spray water) not. Do not overdo it. Too much moisture can cause fungal problems. If you are in dry areas, use a gravel tray to create the right humidity, or place a container of water next to your bonsai.

Note: Excessive irrigation and wet soil for a long time, especially in winter, cause root rot in ficus, and its drying.

Ficus bonsai fertilizer:

Nutrition and fertilization are essential for the freshness and health of the bonsai because the bonsai grows in a small space with a small amount of soil, and the soil nutrients are depleted quickly. For this reason, bonsai should be fertilized regularly and periodically with complete and quality fertilizers. It is recommended to use liquid fertilizers and half of the recommended amount in the instructions along with the fertilizer. Fertilizing the bonsai should be used at least once a month and at most once every two weeks during the growing season and the amount of fertilizer should be halved in winter.

Ficus bonsai pruning:

Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the shape of the tree. Branch pruning can be done all year round, but it is best to do heavy pruning in spring and summer. After growing 6 to 8 leaves in each branch, they can be reduced to 2 leaves. Allow the branch to grow freely for one or two years to thicken.

Pot replacement:

Ficus bonsai pots can be replaced every 2 to 3 years. The older the plant, the later the pot replacement. Ficus has good resistance to root pruning. The time to change the pot is early spring and use well-drained soil.

Ficus bonsai wiring:

Wiring thin to medium branches of Ficus bonsai is very easy because they are very flexible. The wires should be checked regularly, as they sink into the skin very quickly. Thick branches should be formed with thick wires, as they need to stay on the branch longer.

Ficus reproduction:

Ficus can be propagated by cuttings at any time of the year. If the branch is thick, the aerial root technique can also be used. Place the cuttings in a moist environment, but be careful that the high humidity does not cause fungi to invade and destroy the cuttings. Ficus cuttings may take root in water.

Pests / Diseases:

Ficus species are resistant to pests but may have problems depending on the location. Dry air and lack of light weaken the Ficus bonsai. Excessive moisture and irrigation also attack fungi and often lead to leaf fall. Scale and spider mite from other pests that can affect the ficus.