Ficus plants, especially the Ficus Benjamina and Ficus Lyrata, are among the most popular houseplants, and their popularity has not waned over the years. They are striking plants that are also relatively low-maintenance. However, proper care is essential to keep them in good condition. The most important aspect is repotting, which can be quite stressful for the plant. How and when should you repot a Ficus? What type of pot should you choose for a Ficus?
Native to southwest Asia and the Mediterranean, the ficus plants, like most houseplants, are best repotted in early spring. Repotting into a larger pot is necessary when the roots start to outgrow the current container or the plant begins to topple over.
Ficus plants do not grow very quickly, especially as they age, so young plants are usually repotted once a year, while older plants require less frequent repotting. If your Ficus is already large and you want to restrict its growth, you can skip repotting older specimens entirely, which will greatly limit any further expansion. Ficus plants thrive even in somewhat cramped pots and can often remain in the same container for many years while still staying healthy.
How do you repot a fiddle leaf fig tree?
Start by placing a layer of drainage material at the bottom of the new pot. Gently remove the Ficus from its old container, carefully shake off as much soil as possible without damaging the roots, and then place the plant into the new pot. Make sure to cover the roots well with fresh soil.
For large, heavy plants that can be difficult to repot, you can simply replace part of the soil instead. Just remove the top layer and add fresh soil.
What type of soil and pot is best for a Ficus?
The pot for a Ficus should be stable, have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape, and be well-suited to the size of the plant. It’s important to remember that Ficus plants prefer pots that are slightly too small rather than too large, so each subsequent pot should be just a bit larger than the previous one (by 1-2 inches). Ficus plants have shallow but dense root systems, so the pot doesn’t need to be deep, but it should not be narrow.
The soil for Ficus plants should be fertile, well-draining, and have a neutral to slightly acidic pH. In practice, soil for green plants or general houseplant soil works well.
How to Care for a Plant After Repotting?
Repotting is a stressful period for plants, making them more vulnerable to adverse conditions for a while. Proper care is crucial during this time. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to help the soil settle in the pot. Be sure to remove any excess water from the saucer. After a few weeks, you should fertilize the Ficus with a specialized fertilizer for fiddle leaf figs. Try Cute Farms Organic Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. This liquid formula is easy to apply and quickly absorbed, delivering essential nutrients right to the roots. Plus, its organic composition ensures that your Ficus gets the natural care it needs to thrive.