Ficus pumila

Ficus pumila: Care and growing tips for an elegant ground cover

Ficus pumila, with its small, round leaves and creeping habit, is a charming and easy-to-grow houseplant. Its delicate appearance and ability to quickly cover surfaces make it an ideal choice for hanging baskets, shelves or even as a ground cover in open terrariums.

Interest in terrarium

Ficus pumila is an excellent option for open terrariums, where its need for high humidity can be partially met. It can be used to create a lush floor effect or to dress the walls.

Exposure and temperature

• Light: Ficus pumila prefers bright but indirect light. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
• Temperature: The ideal temperature for Ficus pumila is between 18°C and 24°C . It does not tolerate temperatures below 10°C.

Watering

• Humidity: Ficus pumila needs regular watering to keep the substrate constantly moist, but not soggy.
• Frequency: Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Water: Use room temperature, non-calcareous water to water your Ficus pumila.

Substrate

• Mixing: Use a quality indoor plant potting mix or xaxim for optimal drainage.
• Acidity: A slightly acidic substrate is ideal for Ficus pumila.

Fertilizer

• Timing: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every two weeks.
• Dosage: Dilute the fertilizer halfway to avoid burning the roots.
• Reduction: Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.

Repotting

• Frequency: Repot the Ficus pumila every 1 to 2 years, in spring, in a pot slightly larger than the previous one.
• Potting Soil: Use fresh, well-drained potting soil for potting.

Multiplication

Ficus pumila is easily propagated by stem cuttings in spring and summer.

Mistakes to avoid

• Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Lack of light: A lack of light can weaken the plant and make its foliage dull.
• Too low temperatures: Too low temperatures can damage the plant.
• Drafts: Drafts can dry out the plant.

With its dense foliage and climbing appearance, the Ficus pumila is the ideal plant to bring a touch of greenery to your interior. Let yourself be seduced by its ease of maintenance and its ability to transform any space into a haven of peace!

Additional Tips

• Pruning: Pruning can be used to control the growth and shape of the plant.
• Support: Ficus pumila can be grown on a trellis, wall or other support to create a climbing effect.