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SKU 5875
Water once a week or when the soil starts to become slightly dry at the top. Keep the soil lightly moist at all times, but do not overwater as this will cause brown spots and leaf drop. Curly or dry leaves suggest, the plant is dry and needs watering. Water in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Always check your soil before watering.
Bright indoor light or indirect sun. 6 hours to 8 hours
Maintain temperatures between 18°C - 24°C. Avoid draughts as these can create undesirable temperature fluctuations. Consider giving your plant an occasional misting twice every week to maintain the optimum humidity level.
Apply liquid fertilizer once in 15 days when the plant is actively growing. For best results use Folikraft ready to use Indoor Plant Food.
Ficus retusa, commonly known as the Ficus microcarpa, Ginseng Ficus, or Retusa Fig, is a popular species of indoor bonsai tree appreciated for its attractive, glossy leaves and its suitability for bonsai cultivation. Here's a description and care guide specifically for the Ficus retusa trained in an eight-shaped style, which is a common bonsai design:
Description:
Leaves: Ficus retusa typically features small, glossy, oval to elliptical-shaped leaves that vary in shades of green. The leaves contribute to the tree's overall aesthetic and can be reduced in size through proper bonsai care.
Trunk and Shape: In the case of an eight-shaped Ficus retusa bonsai, the tree's trunk is trained to resemble the number eight, showcasing a twisted, braided, or contorted appearance at the base and transitioning into two distinct, separate trunks that form an interwoven or entwined pattern resembling the numeral.
Growth Habit: As a bonsai, Ficus retusa is manipulated through pruning, wiring, and training to achieve the desired shape and size. The eight-shaped design is one of the many styles employed in bonsai cultivation.
Care Guide:
Light:
Place the Ficus retusa bonsai in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Protect it from intense, direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn, especially during midday hours.
Temperature:
Maintain consistent temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect the bonsai from sudden temperature fluctuations and drafts.
Watering:
Water the bonsai thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels slightly dry. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot.
Humidity:
Ficus retusa appreciates higher humidity levels. Regular misting or placing a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the bonsai can increase humidity around the tree.
Soil:
Use well-draining bonsai soil to ensure adequate aeration and moisture retention for the roots.
Fertilization:
Feed the bonsai with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall). Reduce feeding frequency in winter.
Pruning and Training:
Regularly prune the bonsai to maintain the eight-shaped design and encourage new growth. Wiring may be used to shape and maintain the desired form, but care must be taken not to damage the tree.
Repotting:
Repot the bonsai every 2-3 years in the early spring before the growing season begins to refresh the soil and promote healthy root growth.
By providing the right conditions, including proper light, watering, and occasional pruning and training, you can help your Ficus retusa bonsai thrive and maintain its unique eight-shaped design as a beautiful and captivating indoor plant.
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