Ginseng Ficus

Ginseng Ficus is considered an easy plant for beginning Bonsai gardeners. The unusual root growth and slow top growth make it both a forgiving plant and amazingly beautiful. The roots grow to form gnarly and chunky trunks. Aerial roots form on the stems of the leaves and grow downward to give the plant a look of being supported on stilts. All of this growth is easily coaxed and sculpted into interesting natural forms.Best Locations For Growing Ginseng FicusGinseng Ficus requires very high humidity levels and the brightest light available. Kitchens and bathrooms are ideal, but a room with artificial grow lights and supplemental humidity also works. Ginseng Ficus can be grown outdoors in the summer with plenty of sunlight. Ginseng Ficus Sunlight RequirementsBright light is necessary for Bonsai. There are very few leaves compared to the roots, and they need to photosynthesize as much light as possible to thrive. Grow lights are perfectly ok to use when light levels are low in the winter or if your home does not have a southern or southwestern exposure.Ginseng Ficus CareRepotting is only needed every 1-2 years and only if the roots have filled the pot. Use a potting mix formulated for Bonsai, or mix your own. Mix peat-free potting soil with fine orchid bark, lava rock, and akadama, which slowly releases moisture into the soil. Pruning and wire training of the branches are the cornerstones of the art of Bonsai and need to be done regularly. Ginseng Ficus will drop leaves like other varieties of Ficus in response to drafts, low humidity, and being moved.Watering Ginseng FicusWater thoroughly when the top of the soil feels dry. Make sure that the container you use has enough drainage on the bottom. Misting with distilled water can be used daily to add moisture to the soil and humidity. Watering must be done more often when growing this Bonsai in a warm and humid environment. Regular dusting with a damp cloth helps the leaves stay clean, aiding in transpiration.Feeding Ginseng FicusBonsai do not get any nutrients from the soil they are growing in. Additional fertilizer is needed once a month, year-round. Apply a liquid, balanced houseplant feed once a month. Dilute the fertilizer to half the manufacturer’s recommendation and apply during watering.Ginseng Ficus InformationLight Exposure: Bright Direct Light, Bright Indirect LightCare Requirements: EasyWatering Requirements: Average – When the top 2 inches of the soil dries out.Pet Friendly: NoKid Friendly: NoAir Purifier: HighHabit: DwarfGrowth Rate: SlowMature Height: 16-40 inchesMature Spread: 12 inchesFlowering: NoFlower Color(s): NoneFlower Shade/Description: Grown for FoliageFragrant: NoFoliage Type: Foliage Color(s): GreenFoliage Description: GreenTemperature: 60° – 75°F (16° – 24°C)Humidity: Above Average to High (60% – 100%)Common Name: Ginseng FicusOther Name(s): Pot-Bellied FicusScientific Name: Ficus mirocarpa ‘Ginseng’Plant Type: House Plant