The dramatic size and exquisite appearance of ficus make it a popular home plant. Weeping figs, or Ficus Benjamina, make up the majority of ficus species marketed as house plants. If you have a weeping fig, you could wish to share it with friends or use propagation to keep its growth under check. Cuttings or air layering are the two methods available for Ficus Benjamina propagation.
About Ficus Tree Propagation
People propagate indoor plants primarily to produce new plants. They may be given to friends, or another plant can be added to your house. Controlling expansion is a further motive.
A big tree is a weeping ficus. It may reach 50 feet (15 meters) in the wild. It will not become as huge inside a container, but you could still want to use propagation to regulate its height and form. 0.0 of 0.0 seconds 0% volume
How to Grow Ficus Through Air Layering
Air layering is the fastest and most efficient technique of ficus propagation. It promotes the development of new roots on a branch while it is still a part of the tree. In certain circumstances, air layering happens spontaneously. The methods below should be followed to air layer a ficus:
- Select the branch you wish to cut.
- Make a diagonal incision about a third to half the way into the branch using a sharp knife. Make this incision approximately 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm) from the tip.
- Clear the area surrounding the incision of any leaves.
- To hasten the healing process, you may sprinkle the wound with rooting hormone, although it is not essential.
- The chopped branch piece should be filled with damp sphagnum moss, and additional moss should be wrapped around it to form a ball.
- To prevent moisture loss, wrap the moss with plastic and fasten it with tape or twist ties.
In the moss, roots will start to appear. The time frame varies. However, it may take a few weeks to months. Cut off the branch directly below when you have a strong root system, then transplant it in a fresh container. New leaves will develop on the original plant’s clipped branch.
Ficus Cutting Propagation
A ficus may also be propagated from cuttings, although this process requires more time and is not the best choice. Take tip cuttings from ficus trees rather than parts. Take the leaves from the cutting’s base, then use a wet medium to encourage root growth. Hormones that promote rooting will hasten the process.
Give the cutting warm, humid conditions for optimal results. You may need to place a heating pad below if you want healthy root development.