How to Care for Ginseng Ficus

Ginseng ficus is a type of bonsai tree, also referred to as Indian laurel fig or Cuban laurel. These particular types of bonsai trees are prized for their distinctive above-ground roots. When cultivated as a bonsai, the ginseng ficus tree is slow-growing, requiring special attention to ensure its success as an indoor plant. Bonsai trees need regular care, including trimming and annual repotting, to ensure that the roots have enough room to grow.

Things You'll Need

• Bonsai planter
• Gravel
• Bonsai soil
• Fertilizer
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Fill the bottom portion of a planter with gravel to ensure ease of draining. Fill the remainder of the planter with bonsai soil, which is specially formulated for the needs of bonsai trees.

2. Plant the ginseng ficus in the planter so that it is held firmly by the soil. Cover the roots with soil. Allow them to grow up and out of the soil as the plant grows.

3. Fertilize the ginseng ficus bonsai tree about twice a month during the growing season with a nitrogen-rich, balanced fertilizer. Do not add fertilizer to the soil during the winter or if the plant shows signs of stress or illness, such as wilting leaves.

4. Grow the ginseng ficus in an area where it receives regular sunlight, or provide the plant with a grow light to supplement the sunlight it receives. Ginseng ficus can tolerate partial sunlight to full shade.

5. Trim the branches and leaves of the ginseng ficus as necessary with pruning shears to maintain its desired shape. Ginseng ficus can be shaped a number of ways, and regular pruning will help maintain the shape of your bonsai tree.

6. Repot the bonsai tree every other year, or annually if its roots begin to outgrow the pot more quickly. Cut the roots down with pruning shears so that they are only 6 to 8 inches long. Repot the ginseng ficus in fresh bonsai soil.

7. Water the bonsai tree regularly. Check the soil with your finger before watering. Keep the soil moist to the touch, but not wet; too much water can be as harmful as too little.

References

• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Ficus Retusa -- Cuban-Laurel
• Arizona State University: Indian Laurel Fig

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Bonsai Made Easy: Bonsai Ginseng Ficus