How to Pot a Ficus Tree
Ficus do not need to be repotted every year. Once they have reached a desirable size, allow them to remain in the same pot for several years. They enjoy being slightly root-bound and need repotting only when they become severely root-bound. Transplant or repot ficus in the late spring when new growth appears. They may drop leaves after repotting, but they will quickly recover. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Choose a container with a bottom drainage hole. Clay, plastic or ceramic work well, but wood, metal, concrete and other materials also make appropriate containers. Choose a size that balances the size of the tree. In general, choose a container 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current container if you want the tree to grow larger.
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Hold a large rock or pottery shard over the outside of the hole to keep soil from falling through the hole. Fill the pot approximately one-third full with potting soil. Create a hole in the soil for the plant.
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Remove the tree from the nursery pot. Tap the pot around the outside to loosen the tree. Place one hand across the top of the soil with your fingers spread around the tree trunk. Turn the tree upside down and remove the pot with the other hand.
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Place the ficus tree into the hole in the soil. The top of the soil from the container should rest approximately 1 or 2 inches from the top of the pot. Add more soil as needed to fill in the sides, but do not add more soil over the top of the root ball. Press the soil lightly to firm it and hold the plant in place.
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Tips & Warnings
Place the pot in a tray to catch water runoff. Pots placed directly on the floor or furniture can cause water damage.
Choose a lightweight container for large trees that need occasional moving. A tray on wheels is also handy.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages, Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
