Appreciated for its tree-like shape and great decorative value, the Ficus beniamino or benjamin it is the ideal tropical plant for our homes. Also known for its air purifying properties, the ficus is one of the most loved houseplants, always a protagonist not only in the home, but also in the office and, more generally, in the workplace, due to its ease of cultivation and great decorative value. In recent months it has also become trendy again on social media, where many choose it to furnish jungle or minimal chic style homes.
Let’s see how to take care of this extraordinary plant. (Plants, a powerful anti-stress in our homes and workplaces)
What are the origins of the Ficus
It is a plant native to the tropical belt of our planet. It is particularly widespread in Africa and Asia, it belongs to the Moraceae family which has over 800 species, many of which are variegated or deciduous, climbing and tree-like. All united by the particular inflorescence: the syconia. These are unisexual flowers, either all male or all female. In nature it can reach the considerable height of 30 m, but in pots in our apartments it does not exceed 3-4.
Inside its branches flows an irritating milky white liquid which in many areas is used to produce rubber. But it is also the reason why, for example, in Thailand it is considered a sacred tree and is therefore grown near temples.
In Asian culture, the Ficus is a symbol of prosperity and longevity: in India it is associated with the Buddha’s meditation under the tree of wisdom.
Where to place it
The Ficus prefers acidic, light and well-draining soils, it wants a lot of light but cannot tolerate direct sun rays.
The ideal temperatures range from 18° to 22° degrees during the day, which is why our homes are ideal places and, if kept outside, they should be removed and protected in winter, especially if we live in areas with a harsh climate.
If you live in dimly lit apartments, you can supplement with LED plant lamps, easily available online and very effective in the winter months.
What harms the Ficus
As we have just mentioned above, unless we live in places with a warm and constant climate throughout the year and the ficus is planted in the ground, the specimens that we can purchase will remain in pots. Here is what we must absolutely pay attention to so as not to damage it:
Diseases and parasitic attacks
Parasitic attacks are frequent, especially of:
To combat the proliferation of these parasites, it is always useful and effective to use natural pesticides that are widely available on the market. But as far as red spider mites are concerned, if the infestation is caught early, it can be useful to spray the leaves. In fact, these little creatures cannot tolerate humid environments.
While if we are dealing with scale insects, we can proceed with mechanical removal using cotton wool soaked in alcohol.
Many growers today prefer organic solutions such as potassium soft soap or neem oil, which are effective and safe even indoors.
How to fertilize ficus
Liquid fertilizers can be used to be diluted in water and administered with watering following the doses and instructions on the label. Alternatively there are slow-release granular fertilizers, which are placed in the soil approximately every three months but here too it is important to follow the instructions on the label. Fertilizations must be done regularly during spring and summer, while in winter when the plant suffers a slowdown in its metabolism, it is better to halve the doses.
Together with the fertilizer, when a move has been made and the plant has undergone stress, it is advisable to administer a supplement via the leaves, simply diluting it in water and spraying the leaves. Its absorption will thus be faster and more effective.
How to reproduce and multiply the ficus
Multiplying this plant is quite simple and is recommended as an exercise for “new green thumbs” who want to try their hand at propagation. Just do it by cutting:
For those who feel more confident, they can instead try layering, a reproduction technique that involves cutting the branch, enclosing it in a small bag with damp sphagnum moss and waiting for rooting directly on the plant to remove the new shoot only later. This technique is widely used in agriculture as it has the advantage of exploiting all the sap and energy that the entire plant can produce to give life to a new specimen.
In any case it is always better to propagate in spring when the vegetative phase is at its maximum.
Frequently asked questions about Ficus Benjamin
Why does Ficus Benjamin lose its leaves?
One of the most common doubts concerns the loss of leaves. The ficus benjamin tends to react sensitively to changes in light and temperature: just move it from one room to another or change exposure for it to start losing some leaves. It is not always a sign of illness: it is often just a phase of adaptation. However, if the fall is heavy and prolonged, the problem could be excessive watering or a lack of natural light.
How long can a Ficus live in the house
Many wonder how long a ficus can live at home. Under optimal conditions, with a stable environment and good care, this plant can live twenty years or more. It is a long-lived species, which grows slowly but with great consistency. Periodic repotting and regular fertilization help keep it vigorous and with thick foliage.
You can keep the Ficus Benjamin in the bedroom
Another frequently asked question is whether ficus benjamin can be kept in the bedroom. The answer is yes: not only is it not harmful, but it can also help improve air quality thanks to its ability to absorb formaldehyde and other harmful substances. You just need to make sure that the room is bright enough and not subject to cold drafts.
How often should Ficus Benjamin be watered?
Finally, how often should ficus benjamin be watered? There is no fixed rule: the frequency depends on the season and the home microclimate. In summer it may require water twice a week, while in winter just one watering every ten or fifteen days may be enough. The golden rule is to always touch the soil: if it is dry in the first two centimeters, it is time to water; if it is still wet, better to wait.
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