Bonsai Ficus microcarpa

Bonsai Ficus microcarpa 'Retusa' 12Ø 30cm

Bring a miniature masterpiece of nature into your home with this charming Bonsai Ficus microcarpa 'Retusa'. Perfectly sized for a desk or bookshelf, this delightful bonsai showcases the iconic features of its larger counterparts: a developing sturdy trunk, often with emerging aerial roots, and a lush canopy of small, glossy green leaves. Its resilient character makes it an approachable entry point into the art of bonsai, offering daily moments of tranquility and natural beauty in a compact form.

Plant Placement Area:

• Bright, indirect light to partial sun: Thrives in bright, filtered sunlight. A spot near a window that receives ample ambient light, perhaps with some gentle morning sun, is ideal. Protect it from intense, scorching afternoon sun.

• Consistent warmth: Prefers stable temperatures between 15-25°C (60-75°F). Avoid sudden temperature drops or cold drafts from windows or air conditioning vents.

• Good air circulation: Appreciates gentle air movement but shield from strong, drying drafts.

• Desktop or accent piece: Its compact size makes it perfect for adding a touch of living art to a desk, bedside table, or as a serene accent on any shelf.

Benefits:

• Miniature living art: Provides a captivating, ever-evolving natural sculpture for small spaces.

• Air purification: Like other Ficus varieties, it contributes to cleaner indoor air.

• Ideal for beginners: Its robust nature makes it more forgiving than many other bonsai species.

• Compact size: Perfectly suited for limited space, offering beauty without overwhelming a room.

• Promotes mindfulness: Engaging with a bonsai encourages patience, observation, and a connection to nature.

Watering Tips:

• Water thoroughly when the topsoil is slightly dry: Due to its smaller pot size, it may dry out faster. Check the soil daily; when the top feels just dry to the touch, water generously until water drains from the bottom holes.

• Avoid overwatering: Ensure no standing water remains in the drip tray, as this is detrimental to root health.

• Avoid letting it dry out completely: Ficus bonsai do not tolerate prolonged dryness and will shed leaves if stressed.

• Use room-temperature water: Cold water can shock the roots.

• Adjust seasonally: Water more frequently in warmer, brighter conditions and less often in cooler, darker months.

Care Tips:

• Maintain high humidity: It thrives in humid conditions, which is especially important for smaller plants. Mist regularly, or place it on a humidity tray with pebbles and water.

• Fertilize during the growing season: Feed with a diluted balanced liquid bonsai fertilizer (as per product instructions) every 2-4 weeks in spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.

• Pruning and shaping: Regular, light pruning of new shoots is key to maintaining its compact shape and encouraging dense foliage.

• Dust the leaves: Gently wipe the glossy leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean and allow for better photosynthesis.

• Repot sparingly: Repot only when clearly root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, usually in spring. This involves light root pruning and fresh bonsai soil.

• Monitor for pests: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites or scale.

Light Level:

• Bright Indirect Light to Partial Sun: Optimal for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

• Can tolerate some direct morning sun.

• Avoid Low Light: Will lead to leggy growth and leaf drop.

• Avoid Harsh Afternoon Direct Sun: Can scorch the delicate leaves.

Toxicity:

• Toxic to pets: Contains a milky sap that can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested by cats and dogs. Keep out of reach of pets and consider wearing gloves if you have sensitive skin when pruning.

Metafields for Bonsai Ficus microcarpa 'Retusa' (12Ø 30cm)

• Plant Characteristics:

  • Value: Bonsai, Miniature Tree, Glossy Leaves, Emerging Aerial Roots, Compact

• Class:

  • Value: Bonsai Tree, Houseplant, Desk Plant

• Suitable Space:

  • Value: Desktop, Bookshelf, Small Table, Office, Study, Meditative Nook

• Sunlight:

  • Value: Bright Indirect Light, Partial Sun

• Tag:

  • Value: Bonsai, Easy Bonsai, Desktop Plant, Miniature, Zen, Gift Idea, Office Plant