Ficus sacred care at home. Ficus sacred: rules for indoor care and propagation. Pests and diseases
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Characteristics of the plant, tips on growing ficus sacred at home, how to propagate, pest and disease control, facts for the curious.
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Ficus sacred (Ficus religiosa) can be mentioned under the following synonymous names: Sacred fig, Ficus religiosa, Bodhi tree. This evergreen representative of the flora belongs to the genus Ficus of the same name, which is part of the Mulberry family (Moraceae). It seems possible to meet such a plant in India and Nepal, in the vastness of Sri Lanka and in the southwestern regions of China and countries located on the Indochina Peninsula. It prefers to settle in mixed and evergreen forests growing on the plains, but can “climb” into the mountains to a height of up to one and a half thousand meters above sea level.
This variety of ficus bears its specific name due to the fact that most often such giant trees have been grown since ancient times near Buddhist temples, and the sacred fig is considered by adherents of this religion to be a symbol of the enlightenment of Buddha Shakyamuni, who is the spiritual mentor and founder-legend of Buddhism. This is what they began to call Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who achieved enlightenment and became Buddha after he sat under such a tree. In the Sinhala dialect, the sacred ficus became known as the Bodhi tree, Bo tree, or Pipal tree.
Ficus religiosity differs from its “brothers” in its genus in its rather large size, so in nature there are specimens whose height approaches 30 m, but even when grown in rooms its parameters reach 3 meters or more. Therefore, the plant is not often used to contain small spaces, but suitable for decorating large halls, winter gardens or greenhouses. The crown in nature is quite spreading and its dimensions are almost 10 meters in width. When the ficus sacred is still young, it has a small number of aerial roots, but since the plant often begins its life as an epiphyte, located on the trunks or branches of large trees, such roots grow over time and can turn into a banyan tree. Or it can grow as a lithophyte - finding a place for itself in the crevices of buildings (in some photos you can see that the tree seems to grow into a temple), entwining it with its roots over time.
In this case, the root shoots descend to the soil and begin to take root and thicken in it. After a few years, they resemble trunks thin trees and can represent numerous “forests”, supporting a wide crown. The bark covering the young shoots of the plant is light brown in color, with a slight reddish tint, which resembles the color of the branches of ficus racemosus, but the bark of the trunk and branches of adult specimens is gray.
On the shoots there are smooth leaf plates of an original shape with a thin-skinned surface. Their length can reach 8–12 and even 20 cm, while the width is 4–13 cm. The edges of the sheet are smooth, straight or slightly wavy. At the top, the point takes on a droplet shape, reminiscent of a “tail,” and at the base, the outline of the leaf is heart-shaped. When the leaves of ficus religiosum are still young, they have a reddish tint, which over time gives way to light greenish (if the lighting level is moderate), but if the foliage is under direct rays sunlight, then it acquires a bluish-green color or the color becomes dark green, with a bluish tint. All veins are clearly visible on the surface light color than the main background. The shape of the stipules is oval and their length is 5 cm; when the leaf fully opens, they fall off.
The leaf plates are located on the branches in a regular sequence, and the length of the petiole is comparable to the length of the leaf, and sometimes it can grow larger. If the areas in which the sacred ficus grows are characterized by dry air, then twice a year the plant loses its foliage for a short time.
During flowering, a peculiar inflorescence forms, taking the form of a hollow cauldron - it is called a syconium (pseudo-fruit). The flowers are found in this formation and look like brown moss on its walls. Syconia are located in the leaf axils, mainly in pairs. The surface of the inflorescences is smooth. Pollinators are special ficus wasps - blastophages (Blastophaga quadraticeps). After pollination of flowers, the fruits ripen, unsuitable for food, which, when ripened, change their color from green to violet or dark purple.
Despite its growth rate and impressive size, the sacred fig can be recommended for cultivation by beginning lovers of home flora. Often the plant can be cultivated using the bonsai technique.
Rules for caring for ficus sacred at home
- Lighting and location selection. The plant loves bright light, but can suffer from direct rays of the sun, so it is recommended to grow ficus religiosity in rooms facing east and west; a southern location is also suitable, but then you need to place the pot with the ficus at a distance of no less than 2 meters from the window or hang thin curtains that diffuse light. If the light level is low, the sacred fig will react by shedding its foliage. Since normal growth of this type of ficus requires lighting of 2600–3000 lux, then winter time additional lighting will be required. The same approach is recommended if there is no way out, and the pot with Ficus religiosa is in a room facing the north.
- Content temperature. Like any representative of the ficus genus, this plant is distinguished by its love of warmth, so in the spring and summer months the temperature should be maintained within 20–25 degrees, and with the arrival of autumn and throughout the winter they can be reduced, but so that the thermometer does not drop below 15 units, but the lighting then increases. However, according to many opinions, it is possible not to create such a period of “rest” for the ficus sacred with a decrease in heat; it feels great all year round at room temperature. But it is worth mentioning that the plant should be protected from hot air, which will be pumped by heating devices and batteries in winter season. When ventilating, it is worth moving the ficus out of the path of the draft, as the foliage may quickly drop. The Bodhi tree also reacts to temperature changes or changes in location.
- Air humidity when growing ficus sacred, it can be average, although the plant adapts to the conditions of dry air in the apartment, but will be grateful for daily spraying of the foliage with warm and soft water. Good to place nearby Appliances creating “artificial fog” (air humidifiers or steam generators). Ficus religious will also feel good next to a decorative pond, a large aquarium or a swimming pool. But if this is not possible, then you can put the pot with the plant in deep tray, at the bottom of which expanded clay or pebbles are poured and pour a little water there. The main thing is that the bottom of the flowerpot does not touch the edge of the liquid, as this can cause rotting of the roots. As long as the plant is not large, you can regularly wash its crown in the shower, covering the soil before doing so plastic bag. Regular wiping of the leaves with a soft, damp cloth is required to remove dust from them and thus increase humidity. If the air for a long time If the room where Ficus religiosa is kept is dry, its leaves will begin to fly off.
- Watering ficus sacred at home. Since the leaf plates of the sacred ficus are large in size, the evaporation of moisture from them occurs quite quickly. Therefore, watering due to this “water consumption” should be regular and plentiful, but soil acidification should not be allowed. The best landmark in this case, it is the condition of the top layer of soil - as soon as it has dried, moistening can be carried out. If the substrate is in a waterlogged state, the plant will react by shedding its leaves. For watering the Bo tree, use only well-settled and warm water(temperature about 20–24 degrees). You can use distilled, rain or river water.
- Fertilizers for ficus religiosum it is required to apply from the beginning of the activation of the growing season. Although the plant does not have a pronounced dormant period, it is better to start feeding peepal with the arrival of spring and until September. The frequency of such feeding will be once every 14 days. It is recommended to use preparations intended for ficuses or complex mineral fertilizers, which contain a lot of nitrogen or potassium. It is better to choose products in liquid form to dissolve them in water for irrigation; if the drug is granular, then it is distributed on the surface of the substrate. The Bodhi tree also responds well to organic matter (mullein infusion), which is alternated with mineral supplements.
- Replanting and tips for choosing soil. Since the plant is quite different high speed growth, then transplants, especially at a young age, will have to be carried out once every 1–2 years. There is information that in just a year, the growth of the seedling is up to 2 meters. But in this case, you should focus on the condition of the root system of the ficus sacred - if it becomes too crowded in the container, then it is time to replant. It is recommended to take a new pot 4–5 cm larger than the previous one, but you should not increase it too much, since when watering the soil will not dry out, and this will lead to its souring and subsequently rotting of the root system. When the “Bo” tree reaches such a size that it will be difficult to replant it on your own, and the diameter of the pot begins to measure 30 cm, then replanting is no longer carried out, but only the soil layer of 3–4 cm on top is changed. Before pouring soil into a new container, it is recommended to always place first drainage material about 4 cm. It is medium-fraction expanded clay or pebbles, on top of which coarse sand is placed.
- Dernina (rich nutrients, which includes many mineral trace elements, and this mixture is light and friable) and leaf soil, taken in equal parts and a half river sand, a little crushed charcoal is added there.
- Leaf soil (it should be collected in forested areas from under trees hardwood, grabbing some rotted leaves), turf soil and peat, which are taken in equal proportions.
- Turf substrate, peat and coarse sand in a ratio of 1:3:1.
Since ficus sacred has an increased growth rate, it should be regularly limited. In this case, it is necessary to shorten shoots that are too elongated. It is recommended to carry out such an operation before the activation of growth begins, when the plant juices do not spread too quickly. However, as the young branches grow, they will need to pinch the tops.
There is another method of giving the crown of the sacred fig the necessary shape. Since the young branches of the plant are characterized by increased flexibility, when using a wire frame they are given any intended contours. Also common among gardeners is the molding of Ficus religiosa trunks - they are also quite flexible and elastic, so they can be woven into a braid or strand. But for this, when propagating, it is necessary to place 3-4 young “Bo” trees in one container.
Reproduction of ficus sacred by seeds and cuttings
It is easy to get a new ficus plant by sowing seeds or rooting cuttings.
The simplest method is considered seed propagation when fully ripened syconium or purchased seed material is used. Usually sowing is carried out in a peat-sand substrate that has been previously moistened. Then the container with the crops is covered with plastic transparent film and placed in a warm place (temperature about 25 degrees), with fairly bright lighting, but without direct rays of the sun. It is recommended to ventilate daily and if the soil begins to dry out, it is sprayed with warm and soft water from a spray bottle.
After about 7 days, you can see the first shoots, then the cover needs to be removed and the seedlings accustomed to indoor conditions. When a pair of true leaves develop on young ficus sacred, the plant is transplanted into a separate pot (diameter about 7 cm), but if you take a container with a diameter of 10 cm, then 3-4 plants can be placed in it. As they grow, transplants and pinching of the tips of the shoots should be carried out.
If you try to root cuttings, there is information that they sometimes give roots very reluctantly. The blanks are cut in the spring, they should be 8–10 cm long, the cut is dried from the milky juice and sprinkled with a root formation stimulator. Planting is carried out in peat-sand soil. The cuttings are also covered with transparent polyethylene. Daily ventilation and, if necessary, watering will be needed. In 14–20 days, the cuttings take root and are planted.
Diseases and pests of ficus sacred
With reduced dryness, the plant suffers from scale insects, spider mites or mealybugs. Spraying with insecticides is recommended. If the root system begins to rot due to waterlogging of the soil, then replanting into a sterile pot and soil, followed by treatment with fungicides is necessary.
With any change in the regime or maintenance rules, the ficus religiosum begins to shed its foliage. If direct rays of the sun constantly shine on the leaves, then it will begin to dry out at the edges and appear in the center. brown spots. With a lack of light, the shoots become very elongated and the size of the leaves becomes smaller.
Facts about the sacred ficus for the curious, photos
It is interesting that the foliage of the sacred ficus has the property of constantly trembling, moving, and because of such continuous movement (even if the weather is calm), a rustling sound is heard. But this is explained by the fact that the leaf petiole is quite long, and the leaf blade is too large for it. But in ancient times there was an opinion that they live on trees mythical creatures“devas” or “gods”, who contribute to the movement of the leaves.
Ficus religiosity has the property of guttation - that is, if the level of environmental humidity increases, then drops of moisture begin to collect at the tips of the leaves, as if the tree begins to “cry”.
Pilgrims from all over the world have always tied colorful ribbons on the branches of ficus sacred trees growing near temples, and the local population placed their offerings at their base.
People have known about the properties of the sacred fig since ancient times, since with its help it was possible to cure up to 50 types of diseases, including: diabetes and asthma, gastrointestinal diseases, epilepsy and some inflammatory and infectious diseases.
Useful plant used in folk medicine and purifying the air, it is highly decorative of the crown. Ficus sacred is an unpretentious indoor flower that grows and develops quickly at home. Creating a tree favorable microclimate required to maintain a beautiful appearance and improving immunity.
Description and characteristics
Ficus religiosa – evergreen, semi-deciduous, monoecious plant Mulberry family with grayish branches. The leaves are 10-17 by 8-12 cm, heart-shaped, have a long point at the end and a petiole approximately equal to the size of the leaf blade. The veins are light green, pronounced.
Ficus religiosum in natural environment grows up to 30 m, trunk diameter is 3 m. At home it is much smaller, but grows quickly, reaching 2 m in height in a year. The species belongs to the banyan tree, forms many aerial roots, which, reaching the ground, take root and eventually become a trunk. When grown in a room, you can get a bonsai with a height of 50 cm, standard tree or interior decoration by intertwining flexible shoots of several young plants with each other.
Flowering lasts from April to June. The green inflorescences are bowl-shaped and subsequently produce purple or reddish berries filled with many small seeds. They vaguely resemble figs, but are inedible.
Due to the shape of the fruit, the ficus is also called the sacred fig. The wood is porous, soft, and a sticky milky sap is released on the cuts.
How to grow an enlightenment tree at home
Eden is unpretentious in care, but demanding environment. When exposed unfavorable factors sheds leaves, becomes susceptible infectious diseases, changes the color of the leaf plates. It is not necessary to arrange a rest period, but if desired, you can move it to a cooler room.
Caring for sacred ficus at home includes:
- watering;
- spraying;
- feeding;
- transplant;
- formative and sanitary trimming;
- protection from drafts, diseases and pests;
- maintaining optimal microclimate.
Soil and dishes
For the sacred ficus Eden, it is recommended to use a special soil that allows water and air to flow well and has a neutral pH. You can assemble it yourself from turf, leaf and peat land, river sand in a ratio of 1:1:1:1. Substrate for growing seedlings from seed material should consist of 70% peat, 20% a mixture of vermiculite and perlite, 10% coarse sand.
The container should be selected taking into account the size of the root system. Ficus does not tolerate stagnant moisture, so care must be taken to have drainage holes. Clay pots without coating removes well excess moisture, allow air to pass through, and heavy weight makes a specimen with a developed aerial part more stable.
Lighting and temperature
The sacred ficus requires sufficient light, otherwise the tree will begin to shed its leaves. With gradual accustoming to direct sun rays the plant tolerates them well. It is possible to place it in partial shade, but this will affect the decorative effect indoor flower. In winter, it is advisable to place it next to the brightest window, but drafts should not be allowed. The culture is thermophilic; in spring and summer the temperature should be maintained within +22-30 °C.
If you want to create conditions for a state of dormancy, it is enough to reduce this indicator to +15 °C, but do not allow +12 °C or less - the leaf blades will become stained, fall off, and the sacred ficus may die.
Humidity and watering
In nature, the variety grows in conditions high humidity, so you need to install an air humidifier at home or often spray the flower with settled soft water from a spray bottle. When placed next to heating devices In winter, surgery is also necessary. The peculiarity of the species is that with increased air humidity, water droplets form on the pointed ends of the leaf plates. Wood responds well to washing from the shower.
Water the sacred ficus Eden as needed with settled water. room temperature. From March to September, moisten thoroughly after the top layer of soil has dried. When the autumn cooling begins, it is necessary to sharply reduce watering. Otherwise, the leaves may be shed and the roots may rot. The plant tolerates slight drying of the soil more easily than waterlogging.
Top dressing
Solutions of complex universal fertilizers and growth stimulants are used in spring and summer. With their help, the sacred ficus quickly develops, grows, and strengthens the root system. The procedure must be combined with watering so that the products do not burn the roots. The frequency of fertilizing is 1-2 times a month. Nutrient mixtures should contain plenty of nitrogen and potassium.
Pruning and replanting
The formation of the crown will provide the plant decorative look. The sacred ficus also needs pruning to control its growth. In just a year, a tree can grow up to 2 m if not pinched. top shoots. Removing the crown promotes the formation of a denser aerial part. The operation should be done in early spring before the start of the active growing season. The culture is suitable for creating bonsai - young shoots bend in different sides using a wire.
It is necessary to transplant a sacred ficus seedling 1-2 times a year, then once every 1-1.5 years is sufficient. You should focus on filling flower pot root system. The diameter of the container must first be increased by 2 cm, then by 6 cm. The root collar should be placed at the same level. When the plant reaches large sizes, it is enough to replace upper layer soil for a new one.
Reproduction
The main methods of propagating the sacred ficus Eden are sowing seeds and cuttings. The seed material is small, so it does not require soaking. If you want to get many high-quality specimens, you can pre-mix it with coarse sand. Use a common container, place drainage on the bottom, prepared soil mixture, and water generously. Try to distribute the seeds evenly over the entire surface, sprinkle with 0.5 cm of sand. Cover with film or bag until shoots appear.
Ventilate periodically, moisten as the soil dries out, maintain good lighting, temperature regime at +25-30 °C. It may be necessary to install underfloor heating.
When growing ficus Eden from seeds, it should be taken into account that they germinate unevenly, some are able to sprout only after 2 months.
Seedlings should be thinned out every 3-4 days, removing weak specimens. It is necessary to regularly spray the seedlings with settled water from a spray bottle, but do not overfill them. Seating according to individual containers It is recommended only after 2-3 months.
Plant propagation by cuttings is more common, since an adult specimen will emerge earlier. However, one must remember that the survival rate and rooting of shoots in this case is much worse. Unlike seeds, it is best to root cuttings in spring or summer; you can use what is left after pruning plant material. To remove excess milky juice, place the twig in warm water for several hours. After this, dry the cut area a little, sprinkle with chopped activated carbon.
The cuttings should be planted in a moist nutrient substrate, having previously cleaned bottom part from leaves. It is enough to deepen it by 2-3 cm. Place it on top glass jar or transparent plastic bottle(after removing the tapering part) to create a mini-greenhouse. Rooting occurs in 2-3 weeks. All this time, the cuttings should be kept in a greenhouse and the soil should be moistened periodically. Having transplanted to permanent place, it is necessary to maintain the shelter for another week, gradually accustoming the seedling to the environment.
Pests and diseases
If the agrotechnical recommendations for planting and care are followed, the sacred ficus has good immunity, but when cultivated in an unfavorable environment, problems are possible. From pests indoor plants danger comes from thrips, spider mites, scale insects, mealybug. Insects must be washed off the branches and the plant must be sprayed chemicals subject to safety rules. Replanting with accompanying treatment with approved products will help get rid of soil pests.
Ficus can get sick due to excessive watering. The danger of root rot is that the symptoms are not immediately noticeable. If you delay in transferring to new pot and creating an optimal microclimate, the plant will die. Best protection– prevention. When using garden soil and sand for planting, it is necessary to calcinate, water hot water, potassium permanganate solution for disinfection.
The sacred ficus is highly decorative and is suitable for creating unusual compositions when intertwining the trunks of several seedlings. This culture produces beautiful trees bonsai. Does not require complex care, but is sensitive to environmental conditions.
Very interesting representative A large genus of ficus of the Mulberry family is Ficus sacred, or religious (Ficusreligiosa). It is also called the Bodhi Tree or simply Bo, as well as Peepal. The tree is native to India and its natural range extends from the foothills of the Himalayas to the east, southwest China, northern Thailand and Vietnam. Followers of Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism revere and worship this tree.
According to legend, thousands of years ago, a prince from Northern India, Siddhartha Guatauma, sat under fig tree and meditated. When Siddhartha fully understood the meaning of life, he achieved the highest and perfect enlightenment of Bodhi and became Buddha Supreme, or the Awakened One. According to legend, not only Buddha, but also Vishnu was born in the shade of the Bo tree. In Buddhism, this tree is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Silk threads of red, yellow and white and pray for the parents to be rewarded with offspring. In India, the Bodhi tree is widely planted around temples.
The tree, considered historically associated with the Buddha, grew on Bodh Gaya in the northern Indian state of Bihar, but in the 2nd century BC. it was destroyed by King Pushpiamitra, but it was resumed later in the same place with a new plant received from him. In the 7th century AD. it was again destroyed by King Sassanka. And the Bodhi tree, now located on Bodh Gaya, was planted in 1881.
A descendant of the plant in whose shade Buddha received enlightenment, Sri Madha Bodhi, was planted in 288 BC. in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka and is considered oldest tree among flowering plants.
Ficus sacred grows as an evergreen or semi-deciduous tree, reaching a height of 30 m. Growing in a climate where there is never frost, it sheds only part of its old leaves during the dry season. The leaves are arranged on smooth shoots in a spiral. The petioles are long, reaching 13 cm. The leaf blade is broadly ovate, 7-25 cm long and 4-13 cm wide, thinly leathery, with entire, sometimes corrugated edges. Their distinctive feature is the presence of a thin, extended tip in the form of a tail. The central vein is clearly visible, the lateral veins are clearly visible. The stipules are oval and reach 5 cm. Like all ficuses, peepal has a milky sap. Pseudofruits (syconia) are spherical, located in pairs in the leaf axils, reach 1.5 cm in diameter, and turn purple when ripe. For them, the plant received another name - Sacred Fig. This is a monoecious plant. Ficus sacred blooms throughout the year. Flowers are pollinated by a wasp of a certain species. Birds, monkeys eat fruits, the bats, pigs that spread the seeds.
The plant often begins its life as an epiphyte, settling in the leaf litter in the hollows of other trees. From there, the peepal tree sends down aerial roots, which later serve as its support, forming a banyan tree. This species does not form aerial roots from lateral branches, like other ficuses. It grows as a single-trunk tree, the diameter of the trunk with smooth, light gray bark can reach 3 meters or more.
As befits a divine plant, it heals ailments. All parts of the Bo tree are widely used in medicine. The leaves are the most valuable. Juice is squeezed out of them or powder is made and used to relieve fever, dysentery, constipation, and boils. Fruits are used to normalize digestion, used for dehydration and heart diseases, as well as for poisoning. The roots help cope with inflammatory processes. Extract from the roots reduces the level of uric acid in the body, thereby helping with gout. The bark from the roots helps with any inflammation in the mouth and throat area, back pain and ulcers. Milky juice, as one of the components, is used in the treatment of many fungal skin diseases. The bark is used to treat wounds, and the seeds help with bladder diseases.
Currently, ficus sacred grows in tropical gardens around the world. It is valued for its external aesthetics and the religious veneration associated with the name of Buddha. In countries where there is no pollinating wasp, it is propagated vegetative way(by cuttings).
The Bo tree prefers hot, humid climates and can grow indoors, but prefers full direct sun. It is unpretentious to soils, but light loams with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction are optimal.
Maintenance and care indoors
Ficus sacred is quite common among our amateur gardeners. Peepal is grown and how potted plant, followers of Buddhism dress it up on Bodhi Day (December 8). The main thing that needs to be taken into account for it successful cultivation- This great need for light.
Soil composition. It is necessary to add to the purchased soil turf land and sand (3 parts peat soil, 1 part turf soil, 1 part sand). Replanting is carried out in spring and summer as the roots fill the volume of the pot.
Watering moderate, as the soil dries out. Prefers light drying to abundant watering.
Feeding universal fertilizer in the spring-summer period.
Pruning tolerates it well, and often simply needs it to maintain the shape of the crown. It is held at the end of winter and beginning of spring.
in winter it is advisable to place the plant on bright light, lower the temperature to +18 0 C, reduce watering, spray frequently.
In summer it is advisable to provide the ficus with a place on outdoors under direct sun (carefully monitoring the level of substrate moisture). On hot days it is necessary to spray frequently.
Pests. At home, ficus sacred is very susceptible to damage. spider mite, so you need to humidify the air more often. It can also be affected by scale insects and mealybugs.
About measures to combat these insects- in the article Pests of indoor plants and measures to combat them.
Reproduction. Easily propagated by cuttings. Rooting lasts from 2 to 4 weeks.
Either the ficus religious (Ficus religiosa) is a semi-deciduous or deciduous tree belonging to the genus Ficus and the mulberry family (Moraceae). In nature, it is found in the southwestern part of China, Sri Lanka, Burma, India, Nepal, and also in areas of Indochina.
This tree is quite powerful and wild conditions it can reach a height of 30 meters. It has strong branches, a wide crown and spectacular leathery leaves. big size. simple leaves they can reach 20 centimeters in length, their edges are straight and slightly wavy. Their base is broad-heart-shaped, and the tip is very long, elongated into a thin “tail”. The green, smooth leaves have a bluish tint and pronounced pale veins. Alternate leaves have petioles whose length is equal to the length of the leaf blade itself.
The inflorescences are axillary and have the form of small, smooth, spherical syconia, which are also paired. They are painted in green color, which changes to dark purple over time. They cannot be eaten.
Most often, ficus sacred begins to grow like an epiphyte. It can settle in a building crevice or on tree branches. Then it puts out long aerial roots that rush to the surface of the earth. Having reached it, they take root and turn into a fairly strong trunk, which becomes a support for the plant. It happens that as the trunk grows, it takes on the shape of a banyan tree.
Also this type makes him stand out interesting feature. If the air humidity is very high, then small droplets of water form at the ends of the leaves. This phenomenon is called guttation. You may get the impression that the ficus is “crying.”
This plant received its specific name due to the fact that Buddhists consider it sacred. There is a legend that says that Siddhartha Gautama was able to achieve enlightenment and become Buddha while sitting under this plant. For many hundreds of years, such ficus has been planted near Buddhist temples, and pilgrims still tie colorful ribbons to its branches.
Ficus sacred is quite easy to grow in room conditions, since he is not very whimsical and capricious. However, in order for the plant to be strong and healthy, you should know a few simple rules care
Illumination
It grows well in bright, but diffused light, but it also feels quite comfortable in a slightly shaded place. Suitable illumination level is 2600–3000 lux. It is recommended to place the ficus near a window of western or eastern orientation.
If there is not enough light for the plant, its leaves may fall off.
Temperature
Loves warmth very much. So, in the warm season it is recommended to grow it at a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees. In winter, make sure that the room is not colder than 15 degrees. A dormant period is not necessary for such a plant; it can grow and develop normally in a warm room in winter. But it should be taken into account that it must be removed away from heating devices.
Does not tolerate sudden temperature changes or drafts. If there is a sudden change in conditions, the foliage may fly off.
How to water
Systematic and fairly abundant watering is required. However, make sure that water does not stagnate in the soil. As a rule, water the plant only after the top layer of the substrate has dried a little. Water for irrigation must be settled and at room temperature.
Humidity
High air humidity is not at all necessary, but in these conditions the plant feels best. For large ficuses usual ways increases in humidity are not suitable. If the air in the room is too dry, you can use an “artificial fog generator.” And if you have an artificial pond, you can place a ficus near it.
If the humidity is too low, all the leaves of the plant may fall off.
Earth mixture
Suitable soil should be loose, rich in nutrients with a pH of 6–6.5. You can buy ready-made soil mixture for ficus. And if desired, you can cook it with my own hands. To do this, you need to combine peat, turf and leaf soil, as well as coarse sand, taken in equal parts. Don't forget about a good drainage layer, which will help avoid soil acidification.
Fertilizer
Feeding is done 2 times a month. For this purpose, mineral and organic fertilizers which should be alternated. Fertilizers should contain a lot of potassium and nitrogen.
Features of transplantation
This fast growing plant. So, as a rule, in 12 months a small seedling can become a two-meter tree. In this regard, young specimens need frequent replanting (1 or 2 times a year). In this case, transplantation is usually carried out after root system no longer fits into the pot. Ficuses that are too large are not replanted, but only replace the top layer of the substrate.
Trimming
It is necessary to regularly trim young stems in order to restrain the growth of the plant and form a neat crown. Pruning is carried out before the start of a period of intensive growth, and later it will be possible to pinch the tips of young branches.
Features of formation
In addition to pruning branches, there is no less effective method formation of a spectacular crown. The shoots of ficus sacred are highly elastic. Using a special wire frame, you can set the young stems in any direction.
A very popular way to form young plants is to weave their trunks into a pigtail. But for this, 3-4 ficus plants must be planted in one container at once.
Ficus sacred can be propagated quite quickly and easily using seeds. This method is most popular among gardeners. Sowing seeds must be done exactly according to the instructions indicated on the package. As a rule, seedlings appear after a week.
This plant can also be propagated by cuttings, but very often the cuttings do not take root.
Pests and diseases
It can settle on a tree, either. If you notice pests, then the ficus as soon as possible will need to be treated with special chemicals. Processing must be carried out very carefully so as not to poison yourself.
Most often, the plant gets sick because it is not cared for properly. So, due to any change in care, all the foliage may fall off.
However, we must remember that the leaves of the ficus fall off on their own, reaching two or three years of age. In this regard, the fall of leaves can be a completely natural process.