How to Grow Ficus Microcarpa - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Ficus microcarpa is a species of fig tree native to southeast asia. The leaves are simple and ovate, and the tree can grow to a height of 20 m. The fruit is a small, dark-colored drupe. The tree is cultivated for its timber in many parts of southeast asia.

How to Grow Ficus Microcarpa - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

Ficus retusa
Ficus obliqua
Ficus pumila
Ficus elastica
Ficus benjamina

Common Knowledge

Ficus microcarpa is a popular ornamental plant from the fig genus.
It is native to eastern and southern China, as well as Taiwan and Vietnam.
The plant has a compact growth habit and can reach up to 10 m in height.
The leaves are ovate to elliptical in shape and measure up to 15 cm in length.
The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that give way to small, edible fruits.
Ficus microcarpa is commonly cultivated as a bonsai tree.
The plant is known to be drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of neglect.
Ficus microcarpa is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases.
The plant needs to be protected from frost to prevent damage to the leaves.
Ficus microcarpa is deer resistant and can be used as a houseplant.

Related plant:
Ficus Variegata

How to Grow

For ficus microcarpa, first step is to find a sunny spot. The plant grows best in full sun, but can tolerate partial sun.
Next, prepare the planting area. Ficus microcarpa prefers well-drained soil.
When you are ready to plant, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the roots ball.
Place the plant in the hole and fill in with soil.
Water the plant well.
Ficus microcarpa needs regular watering, especially during the warmer months.
Fertilize the plant every few months with a general purpose fertilizer.
In the winter, the plant may lose some leaves. This is normal and the plant will rebound in the spring.
Prune the plant as needed to keep it shape.
With proper care, ficus microcarpa will thrive and provide you with many years of enjoyment.

Related plant:
Ficus Tree

Soil Condition

About soil condition, ficus microcarpa is not too demanding. It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil, but is not particular about pH. It will even grow in sand or loam, as long as it is not waterlogged. Ficus microcarpa is a vigorous, fast-growing tree that can reach up to 20 m in height. It has a dense, round crown and dark green, glossy leaves. The trunk is usually straight and the bark is smooth and grey.

Light condition

Like the other plants, the ficus microcarpa needs sunlight to grow. Without enough sun, the leaves will begin to turn yellow and the plant will eventually die. The ficus microcarpa requires at least six hours of sunlight each day, so make sure to place it in a bright spot in your home.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for a ficus microcarpa is a warm climate. This plant does not do well in cold weather and should be protected from frost. If the temperature gets too cold, the leaves of the plant will turn brown and drop off. The ficus microcarpa is a tropical plant and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers to be in partial sun to full sun and in well-drained soil.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is from 60% to 80%. The ficus microcarpa can tolerate some drought, however it will not thrive unless it is receiving sufficient moisture. If the air around the plant is too dry, the leaves will begin to drop.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, this family of plant is known to be heavy feeders. They will take just about any kind of fertilizer but prefer one that is high in nitrogen. A general-purpose fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 or similar will work fine. Feed them every two weeks during the growing season and monthly during the winter. As for the roots, Ficus microcarpa have a reputation for being difficult to grow. This is mostly due to the fact that they have a very fine, dense root system that can quickly fill up a pot and cause the plant to become pot bound. When this happens, the plant will stop growing and may even die. The best way to avoid this is to plant them in a pot that is at least twice as large as the one they are currently in.

About light

Pruning a Ficus microcarpa is a simple process that can be done with just a few household items. First, you will need a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Next, identify the areas of the plant that you would like to trim. Once you have identified the areas to be trimmed, cut away any excess growth. Be sure to make clean, sharp cuts in order to avoid damaging the plant. After you have trimmed the excess growth, you may want to shape the plant by trimming away any stray branches or leaves. When shaping the plant, be sure to maintain a balanced shape. If you trim too much from one side, the plant may become lopsided. Once you are satisfied with the shape of the plant, you can allow it to grow freely.

About Propagating

Propagation of the ficus microcarpa is best achieved through rooting stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from young, healthy plants that have not yet flowered. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should include a few leaves. Cuttings should be placed in a potting mix that is moist but well-drained. Cuttings should be placed in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Rooting will usually occur within 6-8 weeks. Once roots have developed, the plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate when they are young. As they age, their growth rate slows down. In the wild, ficus microcarpa can live up to 100 years old. In captivity, they can live up to 30 years old.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. Pests such as aphids, scale, and whiteflies can attack the plant and cause damage. Diseases such as verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt can also affect the plant. Nutrient deficiencies can occur if the plant is not getting enough nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium.

List to Know

Remember to water your ficus regularly, as it likes moist soil.
It's important to fertilize your ficus every few months to ensure healthy growth.
Place your ficus in a bright spot, as it prefers indirect sunlight.
Keep an eye out for pests, such as scale insects, which can damage the leaves of your plant.
Prune your ficus regularly to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Be careful not to overwater your ficus, as this can lead to root rot.
Make sure the pot you're using has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Repot your ficus every two or three years to ensure it has enough space to grow.
When moving your ficus, be careful not to drop or damage the roots.
Keep an eye on the leaves for signs of stress