Q.Filling out ficus benjamina
I’ve had the tree for a while now. Good watering schedule, lots of new growth, fertilize half strength monthly during the spring and summer, mist it a few times daily, rotate the pot 1/4 weekly for even growth.
It’s doing well, but can I get any sparse areas to fill in better by pruning? If you look at the pic, it was heavily pruned before I bought it. I want the branches to do their own natural thing, but most were all cut off at the tip and the tree grew new sprouts in other directions.
Was thinking about putting it outside for the summer too. North side of the house so it doesn’t get too much direct sun. Worried about bringing pests in the house at the end of summer though.
Anyone have any insight? I’ve read about every link on the internet about ficus trees and know enough to keep it heathy, I just want it to look good from all sides and seem natural.
Thanks.
It looks like your an excellent Ficus grower!
The care is spot on.
I do believe your concerns about outdoor insects are warranted. When the dry summer weather hits, it can be an open invitations to spider mites and others insects.
I personally don't like to take my indoor plants outdoors unless it's in a screened in type room.
Here is a link with great instructions for trimming up your plant if you think it needs it.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ficus/trimming-ficus-trees.htm
