How to Restore a Ficus: 3 Effective Methods

Ficus is one of the most popular houseplants due to its ability to create a cozy atmosphere and decorate any interior. However, even the hardiest plant can experience stress, diseases, or damage. If you notice that your ficus has lost its beauty, has dry or damaged branches, or has stopped growing actively, this article will help you learn how to restore a ficus using proven methods.

In this guide, we will discuss 3 effective ways to restore a ficus:

1. Repotting
2. Rebooting (pruning)
3. Taking cuttings for propagation

1. Repotting

Repotting is the first and one of the most important steps in restoring a ficus, especially if the plant is growing in a pot that is too small or old.

Key tips:

• Choose the right pot: It should be slightly larger than the previous one, with a good drainage system.
• Use quality substrate: A fresh soil mix with added perlite or vermiculite will ensure proper drainage and aeration.
• Root system treatment: Before repotting, carefully inspect the roots, remove any dry or rotten parts, and gently loosen the densely grown root ball.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Carefully remove the ficus from the old pot.
2. Remove excess old soil and inspect the root system.
3. Place the plant in the new pot, filling it with fresh substrate.
4. Gently compact the soil around the roots and water with a small amount of water for better rooting.

2. Rebooting (Pruning)

Sometimes a ficus requires a “reboot” – the process of pruning damaged or dried parts, which stimulates new growth.

What to do:

• Inspect the plant: Determine which branches or leaves look sick or damaged.
• Pruning: Using sharp tools (scissors or pruners), carefully trim the affected areas. This will allow the plant to direct energy towards healthy growth.
• Root pruning: If the root system has become too tangled or damaged, some roots can also be carefully trimmed.

Recommendations:

• Prune in early spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
• Use disinfected tools to prevent infections.
• After pruning, provide the plant with optimal conditions (light, humidity, temperature).

3. Taking cuttings for propagation

If the ficus has suffered significantly or you wish to obtain new plants, taking cuttings is a great solution.

Steps for successful propagation:

1. Select a healthy part: Take several branches with active growth. It is better if the cuttings are from the upper part of the plant.
2. Prepare tools: Use a sharp, disinfected knife or scissors for cutting.
3. Prepare the cuttings: Cut a branch about 10–15 cm long, removing the lower leaves to leave only 2–3 leaves.
4. Rooting: Place the cuttings in moist substrate or a special propagation mix. You can also use rooting stimulators.
5. Create a microclimate: Cover the container with transparent film or a lid to retain moisture and heat.

Additional tips:

• Provide a small amount of light (diffused sunlight) for the cuttings.
• Check the moisture of the substrate to ensure it does not dry out or become too wet.

Additional tips for restoring a ficus

1. Optimal lighting: Ficus plants love bright but diffused light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
2. Regular watering: Water the plant when the top layer of soil dries out. Avoid water stagnation.
3. Fertilization: During active growth (spring–summer), apply a balanced fertilizer for houseplants.
4. Temperature and humidity control: Ficus plants thrive at temperatures of 18–24 °C and high humidity. Use a humidifier if necessary.

Conclusion

Restoring a ficus is possible through proper repotting, careful rebooting, and propagation by taking cuttings. Remember that each plant is unique, so it is important to closely monitor its condition and adapt care according to its needs.

By following our recommendations, you can return your ficus to a healthy appearance and enjoy its beauty for many years. If you maintain the right care conditions – light, water, fertilization, and optimal temperature – your ficus will surely recover.