Climbing figs are extremely easy to care for and undemanding plants. Provided they are planted in the right conditions.
The climbing fig (Ficus pumila) also presents itself in the air when it stretches out its aerial roots and lights up walls and walls, care is quite easy and the demands of the mini rubber tree are limited. Planting lays the foundation for the climbing fig to thrive.
Now find out what is important and what you need to consider if you want to cultivate climbing figs.
Warning poisonous!
The name hardly suggests it, but climbing figs are slightly poisonous. The climbing plant has its own milky sap from the ficus family, which escapes as soon as the plant is pruned or injured. When planting, small children and pets should not come into contact with the plant. Eating the leaves can cause diarrhea and vomiting. The milky sap irritates the skin and mucous membranes.
Find the right location
The climbing fig is one of the easiest ficus species to cultivate. Even those who don't seem to be blessed with a green thumb often find happiness as an indoor gardener with the climbing figs. Climbing figs want to be bright. Avoid direct sunlight at midday. Partial shade is tolerated.
» Tip: Climbing figs with colored leaves need more light than plants with single-colored leaves. If the variegated climbing figs are too dark, the leaf markings will fade.
The climbing fig slowly becomes accustomed to a sunny location. The full sun on the south window is less well tolerated. A west or east facing floral window is a good alternative.
Climbing figs require high humidity. Dry heating air gets them less. The plants should therefore be sprayed frequently. The plants also thrive in bathrooms and cope well with the steam that comes from cooking in the kitchen.
The climbing fig can spend the summer on the balcony or terrace. Temperatures around 20 degrees are ideal. Watch out fora sheltered and partially shaded location.
The ideal location in keywords:
- Penumbra
- no blazing midday sun
- West or east window
- no dry heating air
- high humidity
- outdoors in summer
Avoid maintenance mistakes by choosing the wrong location
If the leaves show discolouration, the leaf edges turn yellow or the leaves show yellow spots, this indicates that the location is too cold. Being too wet can also be the cause. Climbing figs should not be overwintered below 15 degrees. If the soil is too wet, repotting helps, provided the roots have not yet started to rot.
Select the right substrate
The climbing fig is not picky about the choice of substrate. Normal potting soil can be used. Commercial ready mixes are suitable for green plants, vegetables or herbs. Peat or coarse sand can be mixed in to loosen the soil.
Planting climbing figs - step by step instructions
- Select planter
- Provide substrate
- Insert drainage
- Insert plant carefully
- fill with substrate
- Press the earth
- water well
Planting of purchased plants and cuttings does not differ from each other. The planter should not be too large. Plants will grow bushier and more compact if there isn't too much room for the roots in the planter. A drainage made of gravel or broken pottery protects against waterlogging. The roots are quite delicate, so the plants should be carefully placed in the planter. The young plants thrive best in a bright, semi-shady spot at temperatures around 20 degrees.
» Tip: Cuttings root faster if they are covered with a plastic hood.
Are climbing figs also suitable for hydroponics?
Older plants are difficult to convert from conventional substrate to hydro. Alternatively, plant pots with an irrigation system can be used. The plant can then provide itself with irrigation water as needed.
Cuttings, on the other hand, can be planted in hydro without hesitation. For a bushy and compact growth, it is advisable to place several cuttings in a plant pot.
Can climbing figs be cultivated as bonsai?
Climbing figs are very suitable for bonsai culture. Last but not least, the excellentcut tolerance. In summer the bonsai can go outside. In winter, temperatures around 15 to 18 degrees are ideal. The bonsai should always be watered sufficiently. Make sure, however, that the soil should dry out slightly between the individual waterings.
» Warning: Waterlogging or dry balls can cause leaves to fall.
During the growth period, the bonsai is regularly supplied with bonsai fertilizer. The bonsai gardener has a free hand in the design, all shapes are possible. Cascades or Shohin are preferred. Wiring is also possible. But keep an eye on the bonsai so that the wire does not cut or grow into the wood. The branches are stretched instead of wired.