Ficus Melany (Ficus benjamina ‘Melany’) is an elegant houseplant that has captured the hearts of many houseplant enthusiasts with its rich dark green leaves and ease of care. In this detailed guide, we will explore all aspects of caring for this charming plant so that it delights you with its beauty for many years.
Characteristics of Ficus Melany
Ficus Melany is a cultivar of Ficus Benjamin, distinguished by the following features:
- Height: reaches 1.5-2 meters indoors
- Leaves: oval, glossy, dark green
- Growth rate: average
- Lifespan: can live for decades with proper care
- Toxicity: mildly toxic to pets
Basic Care Conditions
| Parameter | Optimal Conditions | Acceptable Ranges |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting | Bright, diffused light | 500-1000 lux |
| Summer Temperature | 20-24°C | 18-26°C |
| Winter Temperature | 15-18°C | 13-20°C |
| Humidity | 60-70% | 40-80% |
| Summer Watering | Every 3-4 days | When the top layer dries |
| Winter Watering | Every 7-10 days | When the top layer dries |
Detailed Care Recommendations
Lighting
Ficus Melany requires bright, diffused light for optimal growth. The best placements are:
- East or west windows
- North windows with additional lighting
- On south windows — with slight shading
Important: avoid direct sunlight, especially during midday hours, as it can cause leaf burns.
Watering and Humidity
The watering system for Ficus Melany should be balanced:
| Season | Watering Frequency | Amount of Water |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 2-3 times a week | 200-300 ml |
| Summer | 3-4 times a week | 300-400 ml |
| Autumn | 1-2 times a week | 200-300 ml |
| Winter | Once every 7-10 days | 150-200 ml |
To maintain optimal humidity:
- Regularly mist the leaves with settled water
- Use a tray with wet pebbles
- If necessary, set up a humidifier
Soil and Fertilization
Optimal soil composition:
- 2 parts universal soil
- 1 part perlite or vermiculite
- 1 part coconut substrate
- 0.5 parts charcoal
Fertilization schedule:
| Period | Fertilizer Type | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Spring-Summer | Complex mineral | Once every 2 weeks |
| Autumn | Phosphorus-potassium | Once a month |
| Winter | Do not fertilize | – |
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning is done in spring and summer:
- Remove yellowed and dry leaves
- Pinch the tips for better branching
- Shape the crown according to the desired form
Repotting
| Plant Age | Repotting Frequency |
|---|---|
| Up to 3 years | Annually |
| 3-5 years | Once every 2 years |
| Older than 5 years | Once every 3-4 years |
Possible Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Drop | Drafts or sudden temperature changes | Move the plant to a sheltered location |
| Yellow Leaves | Overwatering or lack of nutrients | Adjust the watering schedule, apply fertilizers |
| Spots on Leaves | Sunburn or fungal diseases | Shade the plant, treat with fungicides |
| Dry Tips | Low humidity | Increase humidity, mist regularly |
Propagation
Methods of propagating Ficus Melany:
- Cuttings in water:
- Cut a healthy shoot 10-15 cm long
- Remove the lower leaves
- Place in water with activated charcoal
- Wait for roots to appear (2-3 weeks)
- Cuttings in soil:
- Prepare a mixture of sand and peat
- Treat the cut end with rooting hormone
- Plant the cutting in moist soil
- Create a greenhouse effect
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why is Ficus Melany losing leaves? Main reasons: drafts, sudden temperature changes, overwatering or drying out of the soil. Eliminate the cause, and the plant will recover.
How often should I mist Ficus Melany? In warm weather — daily, in winter — 2-3 times a week. Use soft, settled water at room temperature.
Can I keep Ficus Melany in the bedroom? Yes, but ensure adequate lighting and humidity. At night, the plant releases a small amount of CO2, which does not affect air quality.
When is the best time to repot Ficus Melany? The best time for repotting is early spring when the plant begins to grow actively.
Can I keep Ficus Melany on the balcony in summer? Yes, but protect it from direct sunlight and drafts. The temperature should not drop below 15°C.
Interesting Facts about Ficus Melany
- In nature, ficuses can reach heights of 30 meters
- Ficus leaves have the ability to purify the air from toxins
- Ficus sap is used in traditional medicine in some countries
- The plant can live over 100 years with proper care
- Ficus Melany is one of the least demanding species of ficus
Conclusion
Ficus Melany is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. By following the basic care rules, this plant will delight you with its beauty and healthy appearance for many years. Remember to provide regular care, monitor the plant’s condition, and respond promptly to any changes in its development.