How to care for your Ficus ginseng bonsai

How to care for your Ficus ginseng bonsai

Our tips for growing it healthy and strong

Ficus ginseng, also known as Ficus microcarpa, is a fascinating plant that adds an exotic touch to our collection with its aerial roots. Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, this plant is prized for its ability to adapt to indoor environments, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a touch of greenery to their home.

The right spot

Ficus ginseng prefers bright, indirect light. It’s important to place it somewhere it will get plenty of light, but not direct sunlight, which could damage its leaves. A spot with medium to bright light is ideal for encouraging lush growth.

Illustration: place Ficus ginseng near a window with indirect light
The right spot for your plant

When and how to water it

Watering Ficus ginseng requires care: during the summer, it’s best to water it every 7 days, and every 14 days in winter. Make sure to water it thoroughly, but let the soil dry out between waterings. A good way to check the soil’s moisture is to stick a finger into the substrate: if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Annual watering schedule for Ficus ginseng, with different frequencies in summer and winter
The watering schedule throughout the year

Temperature and humidity

Ficus ginseng thrives in temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. It’s important to avoid temperatures below 10 degrees. As for humidity, a moderate level between 40% and 60% is ideal for its well-being.

Thermometer with temperature range and ideal humidity bar for Ficus ginseng
Comfortable temperature and humidity

The right fertilizer

During the growing season, in spring and summer, we recommend using a balanced liquid fertilizer every 30 days. This will help the plant maintain its vitality and develop healthy foliage.

The pot and soil

Ficus ginseng needs well-draining soil. A mix of all-purpose potting soil, sand, and perlite is perfect for ensuring good drainage and preventing waterlogging. Remember to repot the plant when the roots start to take up too much space in the pot.

How to propagate it

Ficus ginseng is propagated through cuttings, a method of medium difficulty. Take cuttings in spring or summer to ensure the best chance of successful rooting.

Our final tip

The Ficus ginseng requires a little attention, but it will reward you with its beauty and exotic charm. Keep conditions stable and protect it from sudden changes in temperature or light to prevent leaf drop.

— Giulia's Gardens

Verified care information

This information comes directly from the validated botanical record used to generate the guide.

Light
Medium-high · Bright indirect light
Watering
Every 7 days in summer · every 14 days in winter · Water thoroughly and let the soil dry out between waterings · Check the soil moisture with your finger
Temperature
18 °C ideal minimum · 25 °C ideal maximum · 10 °C minimum tolerated
Humidity
medium · 40% minimum · 60% maximum
Fertilizing
Balanced liquid fertilizer · spring-summer · every 30 days
Propagation
Cuttings · medium · Take cuttings in spring or summer