How to Prune a Potted Ficus Lyrata
Do you know about these? Detailed introduction on how to prune a potted Ficus lyrata and the green plant flower planting content of Ficus pruning and shaping methods are provided below.
Ficus bonsai are popular among flower enthusiasts for their simple maintenance, small and dense leaves, and green and lustrous leaf color. However, many enthusiasts find that when they buy a Ficus bonsai, the leaves are dense and thick, but after keeping it at home for a while, the leaves become large and sparse, completely losing the initial compact feeling. Why is that? The main reasons for the enlargement of Ficus bonsai leaves are two-fold: one is excessive watering and fertilizing, and the other is long-term insufficient lighting. How to make a Ficus bonsai with large leaves return to its peak appearance? Several things need to be done.
1. Leaf Pruning
In the case of normal growth of the Ficus bonsai, large leaves can be removed, and appropriate pruning can be done to improve the shape. At this time, many enthusiasts cannot bear to remove the large leaves, but in fact, removing the large leaves allows smaller leaves to germinate better. Otherwise, the large leaves will absorb nutrients preferentially, preventing the germination of new leaves or resulting in few and weak ones. Therefore, it is necessary to remove the large leaves.
2. Use Chemicals to Control Excessive Growth
After removing the large leaves of the Ficus bonsai, when new buds sprout and the leaves unfold, a small amount of dwarfing agent can be sprayed to prevent excessive growth. Dwarfing agents can effectively prevent the excessive growth of branches and leaves, and can make the stems thicker and the leaves smaller and darker green. Don't worry about any adverse effects after using the dwarfing agent; as long as the dosage is reasonable, there are only benefits and no harm. In fact, many bonsai shaping will use dwarfing agents.
3. Ensure Sufficient Light
Ficus bonsai prefer sunlight, and it is necessary to ensure sufficient lighting after removing the excessively long leaves. The daily lighting time should not be less than six hours, otherwise, the newly grown leaves may be at risk of excessive growth again. Lighting can not only prevent the excessive growth of leaves and branches but also make the leaves thicker, and the leaf color darker green and lustrous. It can also enhance the resistance of Ficus, making it less likely to get sick or infested with pests.
4. Control Watering and Fertilizing
Ficus bonsai should be properly controlled for watering and fertilizing to ensure the leaves are small and dense. During the growth period of new leaves, try not to apply nitrogen fertilizer, water less, and keep the potting soil slightly dry to avoid excessive water and nutrient supply, which can cause the leaves to grow too large and become thin. If the air humidity is relatively low, while reducing watering of the Ficus bonsai, it is best to spray the leaves and the surrounding area more often. This will keep the leaves shiny and green, otherwise, the leaf color will become dull and lose its luster, affecting the ornamental value.
The above is a detailed introduction on how to prune a potted Ficus lyrata and the shaping methods, do you understand now?