Are you planning to grow weeping figs indoors but have questions about how to do it? Questions such as do weeping figs like to be root bound? We've checked the web for answers, and here is what we've found.
Weeping figs or Ficus Benjamina can handle being root bound to a minor degree. But If weeping figs become excessively congested, they'll produce small leaves and delay their development. Transplanting them is a must if the roots get too dense.
Now that you know that weeping figs can be a little root bound, let's dive further into the world of weeping figs. We'll address several FAQsand how to care for these plants. We've also included several accessories for weeping figs.
Weeping Figs And Being Root Bound
![Ficus Benjamina tree or weeping fig in brown pot - Do Weeping Figs Like To Be Root Bound [Read This!]](https://gardentabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Ficus-Benjamina-tree-or-weeping-fig-in-brown-pot-Do-Weeping-Figs-Like-To-Be-Root-Bound-Read-This.png)
You can plant weeping figs outdoors and indoors. Weeping figs grown outside tend to grow quickly, especially when not pruned. Growing them indoors will slow down their growth development.
A plan is said to be root bound when the roots develop into a thick, intertwined mass that prohibits further growth. Weeping figs can experience this when grown indoors, as their roots will run out of room when placed in pots. The good news is weeping figs can withstand being a little root bound.
Should I Repot My Weeping Fig?
Repotting your weeping figs often may negatively affect them. You should only replant your weeping figs when needed, or if they become extremely root-bound.
When Can I Transplant A Weeping Fig?
The best time to repot your weeping figs is between late winter and early spring, before they begin blossoming. Replanting your weeping figs into a bigger planter (about two inches bigger) is a good idea.
You should also revitalize the uppermost surface of the fertilizer every spring and wait 6 to 12 months before transplanting them.
How Do You Care For A Weeping Fig Tree?
Caring for a weeping fig tree may seem hard, but all you need is consistency. Below are several ways to care for your weeping gin.
Fertilizer
Weeping figs are known to be big eaters, so they need abundant fertilizer during their growing season.
Light
Weeping figs flourish in the shade to maximum light in their natural habitat. While indoors, weeping figs require a room with bright, indirect sunlight. It may also need a little amount of natural sunlight in the morning.
Soil
Weeping figs need fast-draining soil to avoid root rot and dropping leaves.
Temperature And Humidity
Ficus Benjamina grows well with evening temperatures of around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and morning temperatures of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water
Weeping figs love damp, well-drained, earthy soil. So you only need to water them when the topmost inches of the earth is parched.
The ideal time to water your Ficus Benjamina is once every two weeks to ensure that the soil and the plant absorb the water. Keep them moist but not overly wet.
FAQs About Weeping Figs
Let's learn more about weeping figs. Here are several frequently asked questions and facts.
How Fast Does A Weeping Fig Tree Grow?
Weeping figs can grow fast and well depending on the conditions, season, and proper care. These weeping figs can grow up to two feet tall in a month during the summer when there is plenty of warmth and light.
Outdoor weeping figs can extend up to 25 feet tall if left untrimmed in just 10 years. When trimmed, the tree will reflourish within around four weeks. Outdoor weeping figs can grow to roughly 60 feet tall and 60 to 70 feet wide when left on their own.
The growing process, though, can slow down when it gets cold. The tree will only grow between four to eight inches every month.
How Do You Make A Bushier Weeping Fig?
You should take note of the conditions in which you plant your weeping fig. The tree will develop a stouter, more robust, and bushier top if grown in full sunlight. Growing it in a shady area can cause it to scant leaves and thin stems.
Can You Keep A Weeping Fig Small?
You can keep your weeping fig small by pruning or trimming it. Remember to prune it when it's stagnant, usually during winter. Doing this will avoid hurting the tree.
How Big Can Weeping Fig Trees Be?
Weeping figs can grow up to six feet when grown indoors. At the same time, weeping figs grown outdoors can grow to a massive 100 feet tall and 50 feet wide.
How Long Does A Weeping Fig Live?
Weeping figs are known for their longevity. The Benjamina can live from 40 to 150 years, especially when you give them what they need.
What Causes Weeping Fig To Drop Leaves?
Weeping figs can likely drop leaves due to changes in seasons, conditions, and environment.
These trees are very sensitive to sudden changes in light, water intake, and even repotting. So it's best to have consistency or do changes slowly when caring for weeping figs.
Do Weeping Figs Have Invasive Roots?
Weeping fig roots are incredibly wild and damaging. They can break pathways and pipework and weaken a house's foundation. Limiting root spread and development is the best way to avoid these problems.
When placed in pots, it's best to keep them above soil level. Regularly check for any roots escaping, and cut them off.
7 Recommended Products For Weeping Figs
Here are seven must-have pots, fertilizers, and accessories for your weeping figs.
Jobe's Organics Fast Acting Fertilizer Compost Starter
Click here to see this compost starter on Amazon.
Jobe's compost starter is Amazon's Choice for compost starter for tumblers. It's ideal for compost piles.
Key Features:
- It has 100% organic fertilizer formulas
- It contains 100% organic compost nutrients
- OMRI listed for organic gardening by USDA
Burpee Premium Organic Potting Natural Soil Mix Food
Click here to see this natural soil mix food on Amazon.
Burpee's soil mix food is Amazon's Choice for dirt. It's perfect for planting in containers and raised beds.
Key Features:
- All-natural mix
- Retains moisture
- 100% committed to the success of all gardeners
Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder
Click here to see this root fertilizer on Amazon.
Bonide's rooting powder is Amazon's Choice bonide bontone rooting powder. It's effective on various plants and even on seeds and bulbs.
Key Features:
- Stimulates root production
- Promotes development
- Ideal for transplants
HBServices USA Self-Watering + Self-Aerating High Drainage Planter Pot
Click here to see this planter pot on Amazon.
HBServices USA is 100% BPA-free and has a smooth gloss finish. It has a self-watering feature and prevents overflow.
Key Features:
- High drainage
- Minimize root rot
- Maintains healthy roots of plants
Grandma's Story Vintage Gardening Pots
Click here to see this imitation wooden pot on Amazon.
The Grandma's Story vintage pot comes with two ladybirds that are perfect for succulents and add vitality to your plant. It's sturdy and has a life-like wood appearance that can bring you closer to nature.
Key Features:
- It adds elegance and natural beauty to your home
- It has a nature-inspired concrete wood shape flowerpot
- It contains a hole in the bottom that enables water to drain through the soil
Creative Co-Op Corrugated Metal Planters on Stands
Click here to see these metal planters on Amazon.
Creative Co-OP's metal planters on stands are Amazon's Choice in planters. These planters are easy to clean with just a dry cloth.
Key Features:
- They are made with sturdy, corrugated metal
- They add a stunning new accent to your home
- The light gray planter contrasts with the darker stand
VIVOSUN Gardening Scissors Hand Pruning Shears
Click here to see these pruning shears on Amazon.
Vivosun's gardening scissors are the #1 Best Seller in bonsai cutters. They have ultra-sharp blades that are perfect for trimming, cutting, shaping, etc.
Key Features:
- Reduces hand strain
- Secure and easy to lock
- Makes precise cuts
Weeping Figs
Now that you more about weeping figs, their reaction to being root bound, and how to care for them, are you ready to grow one yourself?
Just make sure you understand that weeping figs need consistency and a fixed schedule and remember to prune or repot them when needed.
You can refer to the list above for guides or suggestions if you also need certain pots and fertilizers. We hope you enjoy growing and caring for your weeping fig.
To learn more about weeping figs, check out these posts: