Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng Care
Everything about caring for the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng: location, watering, feeding, humidity and pruning for a healthy Ming tree.
Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng care
Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng care tips at a glance
| Guarantee | Fresh from the grower | |
| Delivery type | Houseplant delivered in growing pot | |
| Latin name | Ficus microcarpa 'Ginseng' | |
| Location | Bright (indirect) light | |
| Water requirements | Approximately once or twice a week | |
| Toxic | Mildly toxic if ingested | |
| Maintenance | Medium | |
| Humidity | Likes high humidity | |
| Growth form | Swollen trunk, bonsai look |
“The swollen trunk and visible roots of the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng aren't a coincidence: growers deliberately cultivate this houseplant this way, giving every specimen a unique, bonsai-like silhouette.”
Frequently asked questions about the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng
Quick answers to the most common questions about water, light, humidity and caring for your Ming tree.
How much water does my Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng need?
Keep the soil of your Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng lightly moist, but let the top layer dry out a bit again between waterings. The swollen trunk and roots of this ginseng fig store little water themselves, so make sure the root ball never dries out completely.
In summer you'll water roughly once or twice a week, in winter you can cut back easily. If water collects in the saucer, always pour it away, as wet feet quickly lead to root rot.
Where's the best spot for my Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng?
Your Ming tree likes a bright spot with plenty of indirect light, for example close to an east- or west-facing window. It's best to avoid harsh, burning afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves.
Also choose a fixed location: the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng doesn't like draughts, cold or being moved often, and may respond with leaf loss.
Is the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng toxic to pets?
Yes, the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng is mildly toxic if ingested. The sap released from the stems and leaves can cause irritation to skin, mouth and stomach, both in pets and young children.
It's best to keep the plant out of reach of curious cats, dogs or toddlers, and wash your hands after pruning or repotting.
Why is my Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng losing leaves?
Leaf loss in the Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng is usually caused by a new location, draughts or a sudden change in temperature. This houseplant likes stability and reacts to change by dropping some leaves.
Too little light, a room that's too cold (below 12-15°C) or an incorrect watering rhythm can also be the cause. Give the plant a few weeks of rest in a fixed, bright spot and it usually recovers on its own.
How do I provide enough humidity?
The Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng originally comes from humid, tropical regions of Southeast Asia and therefore appreciates a bit of extra humidity, especially when winter heating dries out the air.
Mist the leaves occasionally with a plant mister and don't place the plant right next to a radiator. With constant, high humidity, the plant can even develop decorative aerial roots.
How and when do I repot my Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng?
Repot your Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng roughly every 1 to 2 years, preferably in spring when the plant grows the most. Choose a pot that's only slightly bigger than the previous one, so the characteristic swollen roots stay clearly visible.
Use airy, well-draining potting soil with good drainage so excess water can easily drain away.
How do I prune my Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng into a nice bonsai shape?
The Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng handles pruning extremely well, and that's exactly why it's so popular as a bonsai-style houseplant. Prune preferably in spring: trim young shoots back to above a leaf to keep the shape compact.
The cut releases a milky sap that can cause skin irritation, so wash your hands after pruning. Would you rather have a thicker trunk? Then simply let the plant grow unpruned for a season.
