Cutting method of Ficus microcarpa

The fiddle-leaf fig , with its upright stem, sparse branches and dense and shiny leaves, has become a foliage plant with great ornamental value. It likes to grow in warm and sunny conditions. There are various ways to propagate Ficus microcarpa, mainly including three methods: cuttings, layering and leaf cuttings. Among them, cuttings and layering are the main means of propagation, while leaf cuttings are a supplementary option. Let’s learn the cutting method of fiddle-leaf fig below.

1. Choice of cutting time

It is best to carry out cuttings of Ficus microcarpa in a warm environment with room temperature between 25℃ and 30℃, which helps to increase the success rate of cuttings. Too high or too low temperatures are not conducive to cuttings. High temperatures may cause the cuttings to rot, while low temperatures may cause frost damage.

2. Preparation of cuttings

Choose healthy, disease-free branches as cuttings. Cut small sections of 7 to 8 cm long from the mother plant, making sure each section has at least 3 to 4 stem nodes and retains 1 to 2 leaves.

3. Treatment of cuttings

Lightly coat the base of the cuttings with a solution of wood ash or carbendazim to prevent sap loss and reduce the risk of infection.

4. Preparation of substrate and container

It is recommended to use river sand or perlite as the substrate and mix other substances appropriately. Avoid adding fertilizer to the substrate too early to avoid burning new roots.

5. Cutting operation

Use a bamboo chopstick to poke a small hole in the pot and carefully insert the cuttings to half the depth. After watering thoroughly, stop watering. Place the plant in a cool, ventilated place indoors with diffuse light. If you need to increase humidity, you can cover the pot with a thin layer of plastic film .

6. Subsequent management

If the fiddle-leaf fig grows slowly after cuttings, control the amount of water and fertilizer and take good care of it, and the situation will improve soon.

In summary, as a highly ornamental plant, Ficus microcarpa has certain requirements on the time and method of cuttings. The above is a detailed description and suggestions on the cutting process of Ficus microcarpa.