Fig Ivy
The fig ivy, or Ficus pumila, is an evergreen, woody vine native to eastern Asia. This plant is a low maintenance, trailing or climbing, perennial indoor vine with dark green heart-shaped leaves. With its low light tolerance, easy watering needs, and clumping habit, the fig ivy is an ideal houseplant. It also adds texture, color, and an established look to any home or office decor.
Fig ivy prefers regular, light watering. Its soil should not dry out, so make sure to always keep the soil moist. Water your plant when the surface becomes dry. During winter, water it less frequently. If the leaves start to brown, pH levels, salts, or other contaminants may be to blame, so consider flushing the soil with water and replacing it.
Fig ivy prefers indirect, low light areas for comfort, but can tolerate average, filtered, or bright light. Direct sunlight will damage its delicate leaves. Keep the plant in an area that does not receive direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Too much light will cause the leaves to yellow and drop.
Fig ivy prefers moderate temperatures, between 65-85°F (18-29°C). These temperatures are comfortable for humans, so it should be no problem to provide this to your plant. Anything higher can cause brown spots or yellow patches on the leaves.
Fig Ivy prefers an environment with increased humidity levels. It can tolerate some degree of direct dry, air-conditioned air indoors, but it will appreciate misting with a water bottle. It can also be placed near or on top of a humidity plate.
Fig ivy prefers a soil mixture that is made up of a mix of orchid bark; peat moss; and perlite, coco peat, or vermiculite. Make sure the mixture is well-draining and airy. Avoid using ordinary soil, as it is too heavy and will not provide the necessary drainage.
Fertilize your Fig ivy during the spring and summer months, when it is actively growing. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, and apply it every two weeks. In the fall and winter, the plant slows down its growth and does not require any fertilization. Too much fertilizer will cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop.
Unfortunately, Fig ivy is prone to pests. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. If you notice any of these on your plant, wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth, then apply rubbing alcohol to the leaves if necessary. For severe infestations, you may need to treat with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. To prevent pests, it's important to clean your plant regularly and to ensure there is enough space between the leaves for proper air circulation.
Your Fig ivy should be re-potted every year or two, when the root system has outgrown the pot. When repotting, make sure to use a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mixture and to water the plant thoroughly after repotting. Avoid repotting Fig ivy during the winter months when it is dormant.
Fig ivy does not require pruning, however, if it is necessary, it is best to prune in the winter. Pruning should only be done if the plant is getting too large and unruly. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, as well as any stems, that are taking up too much space. Pruning if done correctly will not hurt the plant, but make sure to only remove small sections of the vine.
Mulching is an important part of helping your Fig ivy thrive. This will insulate the roots and suppress weeds, while helping to retain some of the moisture in the soil. Use a loose mulch such as sawdust or dry grass clippings.
Fig ivy can be easily propagated by cuttings. Take a cutting during the summer or fall months. Use a sharp, sterile knife to make a clean cut just below a node. Place the cutting in sterile potting soil mix, and water it regularly. Make sure that the soil is kept moist. Your cutting should take root in about 4-6 weeks.
Fig ivy does not require any support to climb. It naturally clings on to any rough surfaces; however, you can use a trellis to help the plant grow with more structure, forming a neat, attractive shape.
Fig ivy does not require a special rest period; however, when the weather is very hot and dry or very cold and dry, it is best to keep the plant in a slightly shaded area, where the temperature is a bit cooler. This will help the plant survive the hot or cold weather. Do not water it as much during this period, as it is in a dormant state and does not need as much moisture.
Fig ivy is generally non-toxic for pets, so it is safe to have in your house. However, as with any plant, The ASPCA recommends that you always supervise your pets when they are around any houseplant to ensure their safety.
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