Ficus benedict home care. Ficus Binnendijka (Ali): home care

Ficuses are one of the most commonly found plants living in houses, apartments and offices. Their diversity is unimaginably great. Different types ficuses differ from each other in the size and structure of the bushes, as well as the shape and color of the leaves. These plants are valued around the world for their very spectacular appearance and unpretentiousness to the conditions of detention ...

Ficuses are one of the most commonly found plants living in houses, apartments and offices. Their diversity is unimaginably great. Different types of ficuses differ from each other in the size and structure of the bushes, as well as the shape and color of the leaves. These plants are valued all over the world for their very spectacular appearance and unpretentiousness to the conditions of detention.

Ficus Ali(lat. Ficus Binnendijkii cv. ‘Alii’) is one of the most sought-after and prominent representatives of its kind. Seeing this plant for the first time, every grower wants to buy it for himself, but at the same time he may not even guess that it is a ficus.

Two types of these green beauties grow in my house - Ficus rubber and Ficus Ali. In this article I will tell you what should be proper care just behind the last plant.

General information about ficus Ali.

For landscaping a room, that is, a house, apartment or office, of all types of ficuses, Ali is often found. The leaves of this plant are similar to willow, so they were given the popular name - "willow ficus". The trunk and branches of this plant are densely bordered with dark green long leaves. AT good conditions Ficus Ali can grow up to 2m in height.

In fact, Ali's ficuses are a whole group of varieties of plants similar to each other, which were discovered and described by the botanist Simon Bennendijka in the 19th century. Hence the second name - Ficus Binnendijkii (lat. Ficus binnendijkii). AT wild nature these evergreens reach 20m in height and are found in the subtropical forests of India. In young ficuses, the bark is dark brown, while in adults it is light gray with light strokes.

Ficus Ali- narrow-leaved plants, the branches of which, under their weight, fall down. The leaves of these plants are variegated or monochromatic. Their length is up to 30 cm, and their width is up to 7 cm. In their shape, the leaves of ficus Ali resemble well-opened pea pods, that is, they are also bent in the middle along the entire length.

Varieties of ficus Ali.

There are quite a few varieties of ficus Ali. In this article, I will list only those that are most often found in flower growers.

1. Ficus "Alii". The leaves of this plant are slightly wider than other Bennendijk varieties. For landscaping the premises, this plant is used more often than its counterparts.
2. Ficus "Amstel Gold" has very beautiful leaves of an unusual color: a yellow-green background, on which areas of different shapes and different shades of green are located in a chaotic manner.
3. Ficus "Amstel Queen". The leaves of this plant are slightly wider than those of 'Amstel King' but narrower than those of 'Alii'.
4. Ficus "Amstel King" has wider leaves (up to 7cm). In all respects, this plant is very similar to the ficus "Amstel Queen".

Ficus Ali care.

As I said, Ali's ficuses are very strong and not whimsical plants. And yet, for normal growth, they need to create the right conditions.

Lighting for ficus Ali.
All ficuses love bright rooms, but without direct sun rays. Green plants feel fine in partial shade, but for variegated ones, so that they do not lose their color, bright diffused light is needed.

If in summer days the sun's rays will fall on the plant, then it must be shaded. At the same time, it is not worth putting the plant deep into the room, as its leaves will turn pale.

Ficus Ali do not like to be moved or even turned, therefore, when choosing a place for your green pet, in addition to lighting, count on the fact that it will grow.

Temperature for ficus Ali.
This plant thrives at normal room temperature. In summer it should be from 20 0 С to 25 0 С, and in winter it should be a little lower - 16-20 0 С.

If the room is very warm in winter, then put the ficus as close to the window as possible. It's cooler there anyway.

When growing ficus, you need to know this pattern: if the ambient temperature is warm, then the plant needs more light, and vice versa, the cooler the room, the shorter the daylight hours can be. In nature, these parameters are associated with the seasons.

Watering ficus Ali.
Ficuses do not tolerate prolonged drought, so they need to be watered regularly and moderately, avoiding stagnant water. When waterlogged, the soil turns sour, the roots begin to rot and the plant dies.

From spring (after waking up) to autumn (before the plant goes to rest), the ficus is watered more often, because due to active growth it needs more moisture. In winter, watering is slightly limited.

I water my ficus Ali when the top layer of soil (1-2cm) dries out.

Spraying ficus Ali.
This beautiful plant is very fond of water and high humidity, so you need to spray the plant regularly. This is best done with a spray bottle or, if the plant is not large, under the shower. The water should be at room temperature. In addition to moisturizing, spraying is useful in that it helps to remove dust from ficus leaves. The frequency of this procedure depends on air humidity and ambient temperature. In summer, at a temperature of 20-22 0 C, they are sprayed 1-2 times a week, and if the temperature is higher, then this can be done daily.

Soil for ficus Ali.
Ficuses need special soil. It can be purchased at a flower shop, and there it is called "Ficus Soil" or "Palm Soil". If desired, such a mixture can be made independently. For adult plants, it should be nutritious and loose enough, consisting of:

1. Greenhouse or leaf land (2 parts);
2. Sod land (2 parts);
3. Sand (1 part);
4. Some charcoal;
5. A little fine red brick crumb as a baking powder.

For young ficus Ali can be mixed:

1. Sod land (1 part);
2. Sand (1 part);
3. Peat (1 part).

These plants do not tolerate acidic and alkaline soils.

Top dressing for ficus Ali.
From the beginning of spring to the end of summer, the plant develops rapidly, therefore, it requires regular top dressing. During this period, I fertilize my ficus Ali once every 2-3 weeks and use store-bought complex top dressing for deciduous houseplants. I usually do both root dressing and foliar dressing (spraying the leaves with a weak solution of liquid fertilizer), alternating between them.

From autumn to spring, ficuses can not be fertilized, since at this time the plant has a dormant period.

Ficus transplant Ali.
Ali's ficus transplants are done in early spring, when he is just waking up. Young plants, due to their rapid growth, require an annual transplant with a complete replacement of the soil, and adults - by transshipment about 1 time in 3 years. Very large specimens are not transplanted. They are simply fed and the topsoil is renewed once a year.

For transplanting, take a new pot, the diameter of which is 2-3 cm larger than the previous one.

At its bottom, be sure to make good drainage from expanded clay and / or stones. Then, regardless of whether you transplant the ficus by transshipment or remove all the soil, put it on the drain and evenly cover it with soil mixture on all sides. At the same time, make sure that he does not bend over, but stands straight. Then water the plant abundantly and put it in its original habitat. The next watering occurs as the soil dries up.

Reproduction of ficus Ali.
Reproduction, as well as transplantation, is done in early spring. Basically, ficus Ali is propagated by stem cuttings, as they take root very well. This is done as follows: in the mother plant, a stalk is cut off with a sharp knife, secateurs or scissors. Then it is placed in a container with water at room temperature and placed in a warm (22-25 0 C) bright place. In this form, the plant is until the roots appear. In this case, it is necessary to periodically add water. The roots themselves begin to sprout after about 2 weeks. When they reach a size of 1.5-2.5 cm, the plant can be planted in the ground.

Formation of ficus Ali.
Ficus Ali can be grown like a regular shrub, pruning it periodically to keep it from overgrowing. In this case, the plant will maintain a compact size and become very fluffy.

You can also plant several cuttings of ficus Ali in one pot and grow it as an ornamental pigtail plant, twisting them together and removing excess shoots and leaves.

Diseases of ficus Ali.

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Ficus Ali, like all other species of this plant, is very rarely exposed to diseases and pest attacks. But sometimes under adverse conditions it happens.

Ficus leaves wilt, become lethargic and fall off.
Most often this is due to waterlogging of the soil and, consequently, rotting of the roots. It also happens if you move the plant to a new location.

The growth of the ficus has slowed down, and its leaves are losing color and falling off.
This may be due to lack of lighting. If it is not enough for a long time, then the ficus will lose its immunity and may catch a more serious disease, which will be difficult to cure. To correct this situation, it is necessary to increase the lighting.

Ficus leaves shrivel and dry.
Most often this happens due to direct sunlight on the plant. To correct this situation at the peak of solar activity, it is necessary to shade the plant and spray it.

At the tips of ficus leaves appeared brown spots.
This may be due to high ambient temperatures, overfeeding or low air humidity. To increase humidity, spray the ficus more often or place a tray with wet expanded clay under the pot. It is also necessary to increase the frequency of ventilation of the room, but do not allow drafts. Also check if you are applying fertilizer correctly. The recipe and dosage should be written on the package.

Ali ficus pests.

With poor care, ficuses are affected by mealybugs, scale insects and false scale insects, as well as spider mites.

Mealybug on ficus.
At low air humidity, mealybugs can attack ficuses. With a small amount of them, wipe the lesions with a soft cloth dipped in alcohol.

Shield and false shield on ficus.
When the plant is affected by this pest, the leaves lose their color and fall off. The insects themselves look like plaques (the adults are black and the young are flesh-colored) stuck to the plant. At the initial stage (as soon as the first insects appear), they can be removed by wiping the plant with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water. With a stronger lesion, you will have to use Actellik at the rate of 20 drops per 1 liter of water. Be careful when using it as it is toxic. Ventilate the room constantly.

Puatin tick.
As soon as you notice a very thin white cobweb between and under the leaves on the ficus, then immediately proceed to treat the plant. Spider mites do not tolerate moisture, so rinse the plant well under a room temperature shower several times in a row with a frequency of 5-7 days. If the plant is still small, then you can put a “greenhouse” on it from, for example, a transparent plastic bag. Then put the plant in a warm, bright place. Thus, you will increase the humidity of the air, which is very harmful to spider mite. If this does not help, then use actellik in the same way as for fighting the scale insect.

P.S.
As for me, all types of ficuses are excellent indoor plants that constantly delight their owners and their guests with their beauty. Therefore, if you have not yet put a ficus in your house, then do it as soon as possible.

Characteristics of ficus Binnendijk, tips for indoor care, how to reproduce, difficulties encountered in the process of growing and ways to overcome them, facts to note, varieties.

The content of the article:

Ficus Binnendijkii (Ficus binnendijkii) belongs to the botanical classification of the Mulberry family (Moraceae) and has a tree-like form of growth. The plant can rightly call the lands of Indonesia, the southeastern regions of Asia, where tropical rainforests are common, and these territories can extend to the very foothills of the Himalayan mountains, passing through Nepal, Burma and Thailand. Also, the places where ficus Binnendijka is found include Vietnam, the island lands of Java, Borneo, Sumatra and the Philippines. However, the plant has spread to other areas of the globe where there is a tropical climate. It is not uncommon on the lands of the United States, while this example of the green world is grown in parks and gardens. That is, we can safely say that you can meet him everywhere on the islands, except for places with high humidity or dryness, while the ficus feels good on rocky or rocky ground.

Because of the outline of its leaf plates, you can often hear how among flower growers the plant is called “ficus willifolia”, since they have the corresponding contours, or another name is found - “ficus Ali”.

When the shoots are young, they are covered with a bark of a light green color, but at the same time there is a rather rapid lignification. In middle-aged plants, the bark is cast in a dark brown color, it is rough to the touch, with the presence of a pattern of whitish strokes. Such a coating can usually flake off in the form of ribbon-like pieces of a gray color. When the Binnendijk ficus becomes old enough, its bark changes color to light gray, with white touches.

Young leaves, formed at the tops of the branches, are twisted in the form of tubules, located in stipules of a light green hue. The latter tend to dry out and fall off after the leaf is fully unfolded. The leaf blades that grow on the branches have a shiny, glossy but tough (skinny) surface and are dark green above and dull green on the underside. The color of the median vein is yellow-green.

When the leaves are fully formed, their shape is lanceolate (they are very similar in appearance to willow or oleander foliage), have a slight concavity along the central vein (somewhat resembling a “boat”). At the base, the leaf has a triangular outline, and at the top there is a sharp point. The length of the petiole of the leaf reaches 3–4 cm. The length of the leaf is 25–30 cm with a width of about 4–7 cm. Ficus Binnendijk has a property inherent in all representatives of the ficus genus - when a break or cut of any part, a sticky whitish milky juice is released .

The growth rate of ficus Binnendijk is quite significant, the parameters of annual growth can vary from a couple of centimeters to several tens of them. The plant has a long life cycle, but its cultivation requirements are not high and it can be recommended for cultivation by a grower with little experience in caring for house plants.

Ficus Binnendijk care for indoor cultivation

• Lighting and location. When caring for willow ficus, bright but diffused light is needed. The pot is placed at a distance of 2–3 meters from a south-facing window, or a place on an east or west window is suitable.
• Air temperature. For ficus Binnendijk, it is required to maintain heat indicators in the range of 18–23 degrees in the spring and summer, and in winter time they are lowered a little, but not lower than 15 units. If the temperature in the room rises, then it should be increased by any accessible ways air humidity. Due to the action of a draft, foliage will be shed.
• Air humidity when growing willow ficus, you need an average. In the spring and summer months, it is recommended to spray the foliage of the plant once every 7 days. But similar procedures are also necessary in winter period when devices that increase the temperature (batteries and heaters) start working. The leaves should often be wiped with a soft cloth moistened with soft water. If the size of the ficus "Ali" is small, then you can arrange showers once a week. At the same time, the soil is covered with a plastic bag, protecting it from water.
• Watering. In order for the Binnendijk ficus to feel comfortable, it is necessary that the soil moisture be moderate during the summer period - the upper part of the soil in the pot should dry out a little before the next watering. In the spring-summer period, they are carried out every 3-4 days, with the advent of winter, moisture is reduced to once every 7 days - the soil should practically dry out in a pot. It is this kind of ficus that can easily endure a strong drying of an earthen coma, but when the soil is flooded, they quickly die. After 10–15 minutes, the water that was glassed in the pot holder must be drained to prevent the root system from rotting. Water for irrigation is used only soft and warm.
• Fertilizers for ficus"Ali" is recommended to be applied from the beginning of spring to the end of summer, with a regularity of once every 2-3 weeks. Apply top dressing for decorative leafy plants and organic preparations. Preferably, such compositions are in liquid form, then they can be added to the water for irrigation.
• Transplantation and selection of soil for ficus Binnendijk. When the plant is young, it is necessary to change the pot and the soil in it annually with the advent of spring time. The volume of the pot should be increased by 4-5 cm in diameter. But if the transplant time has come, and the root system has not yet mastered all the substrate provided to it, then you can simply change the sprinkled earth when the bush was removed from the container to a new one. Old specimens are transplanted only once for 2–3 years, but if the diameter of the flowerpot has become 30 cm, then only 3–4 cm of the top layer of soil is changed. At the bottom of the new container, it is imperative to put about 4 cm of drainage material, which will not only ensure the stability of the flowerpot, but also prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. Expanded clay of medium size acts as such material at the very bottom, and coarse sand is poured on top. Soil for ficus Binnendijk needs special, you can buy a ready-made substrate for ficuses or palms, which has sufficient friability and nutritional value, acidity should be low or neutral (pH 5.5–6.5). But some flower growers combine the soil mixture on their own from sheet or greenhouse soil, turf, river sand in a ratio of 2: 2: 1, where they mix in a little chopped charcoal and brick chips sifted from dust. If the plant is young, then a composition of equal parts of soddy soil, coarse sand and peat is used.
• General care tips. Since the Binnendijka ficus is quite large in size and high speed growth, it is recommended to carry out crown molding in the spring, which consists in pruning too elongated shoots so that the bush remains compact. Often, flower growers carry out the formation of a ficus in the form of a bole - in this case, one main stem stands out, and the side ones are constantly shortened. Also, due to the fact that young trunks are flexible, they can be woven into bundles or braids when several copies are planted in one container. But even if the formation of the crown is not carried out, then the ficus "Ali" will develop into a lush bush. When the plant is still young, it is necessary to put a support in the pot so that the shoots do not sag.

Rules for breeding ficus Binnendijk at home

Blanks for cuttings are usually cut in the spring from the tops of the branches. The length of the cutting should be about 8-10 cm, and only a couple of leaves are left on it (there can be only one leaf). Before planting, it is recommended to hold the workpiece in water for about 20 minutes to remove the secreted milky juice, or it is removed after it hardens. Planted cuttings in pots filled with peat-perlite (peat-sand) substrate or in a mixture garden soil and sand. The temperature during germination is maintained at 25 degrees.

The stalk after planting should be watered and sprayed. You can arrange a mini-greenhouse for him, covering him with a glass vessel (a cut plastic bottle) or wrapping it with a transparent plastic wrap. The place in which the pot with the cuttings is placed should be shaded from direct sunlight, but with good level illumination.

When caring for young Binnendijk ficuses, if they are in a mini-greenhouse, it is necessary to carry out regular ventilation, and also prevent the earthen clod from drying out. After a month and a half, the cuttings take root and are transplanted into pots with more fertile soil, 3-4 each.

You can also wait for the roots to form at the cuttings by placing them in a vessel with boiled water, but in this case you will have to wait 1-3 months. In this case, it will be necessary to change the water in the tank to a new one every two days.

Diseases and pests that occur during the cultivation of ficus Binnendijk

1. Mealybug. Such a pest begins to appear when the humidity indicators are too low in the room and it is clearly visible from the back of the leaves or in the internodes - in the form of white cotton-like lumps. If there are few such formations, then you can wipe the foliage with a soft cloth dipped in an alcohol solution of calendula until the pest is removed. If no action is taken, then soon the whole plant will become covered not only with whitish lumps, but also with a sticky coating - honeydew, which will entail the formation of a soot fungus.
2. Shield or false shield. When affected by such pests, the foliage begins to lose its saturated color and then falls off, as the insects suck out the nutritious juices from it. The pests themselves resemble small plaques (when young, then flesh or brownish color, but as they grow older, it changes to black) attached to the back of the leaf. Not the first stage of the lesion, you can remove such formations with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water. It is prepared on the basis of laundry soap dissolved in water or any dishwashing detergent. If there are a lot of pests, then a preparation is prepared from Aktellik (20 drops of the product are diluted in 1 liter of water). All leaves and shoots are sprayed with this composition. But at the same time, it must be remembered that the drug is toxic and frequent ventilation of the room is recommended during operation.
3. Spider mite. If a thin cobweb appears on the leaf plates or in the internodes, then you must immediately follow the steps to treat the ficus Binnendijk. This pest usually appears when the humidity parameters are very low. It is necessary, firstly, to wash the plant under warm (with a temperature of 20–24 degrees) shower jets, since the insect cannot withstand moisture. Such "washing" is required to be carried out at intervals of 5-7 days. While the ficus is not yet large, it is recommended to put on a transparent plastic bag on it, creating the conditions of a mini-greenhouse. Then the flowerpot with a bush is placed in a warm place. Secondly, if the increase in humidity did not bring a positive effect, then they are treated with insecticidal preparations, for example, Actellik or Aktira.

• discarding foliage during hypothermia or too much drying of an earthen coma;
• pale color of leaf plates, a decrease in growth rate, the formation of leaves of smaller sizes is due to a lack of nutrients;
• at a low level of illumination, the foliage of the plant becomes small and turns yellow, and the shoots are too long;
• increased dryness of the air leads to drying of the tips of the leaf plates;
• waterlogging of the substrate will cause the leaves to fall and rot in the lower part of the shoots;
• twisting and drying of the foliage occurs due to the fact that the ficus is constantly under the direct rays of the sun;
• brown spotting on the leaves is provoked by elevated temperatures or frequent fertilization.

Facts on a note about ficus Binnendijk, photo

Varieties of ficus Binnendijk

1. Ficus "Alii" has leaf blades that are slightly wider than other varieties of Binnendijk ficus, but to add more green tones to the room, such a plant is used more often than others in phytodesign.
2. Amstel King is a variety with a spherical crown and a rather high trunk. Leaf plates in width reach 6 cm, their color is uniformly green.
3. Amstel Gold considered the most common variety in home cultivation. Foliage with a variegated color, and the coloring consists of dark green and light green tones, and also on a yellow-green background there is a pattern of spots of different outlines and shades of green color.
4. "Amstel Queen" (Amstel Queen). The leaf plate is painted in one tone, while its width is smaller than that of the Alii variety, but the leaf is wider than that of the Amstel King variety (almost up to 7 cm).

A less popular name is benedict, one of the many types of ficus adapted to home conditions. Homeland consider Southeast Asia. It got its name from the discoverer of this species (Simon Benedict).

There are several varieties. Appearances are not quite similar to ordinary ficuses. Benedikta is not whimsical to strict living conditions and care is quite simple.

Description: In its natural environment, it reaches a height of 15-20 m. An evergreen plant, similar to a tree, with a high and even trunk and brown bark in adulthood. Young trees have dark bark. There are light stains on the surface of the bark.

Narrow, belt-like leaves with a pointed end and drooping branches.

The color of the leaves depends on the habitat and variety: plain or variegated. Length reaches 30 cm, width 5-7 cm.

A vein is clearly visible along the leaf, less noticeable lateral veins evenly extend from it to the sides. The central vein bends the leaf in half, as if breaking it.

Care and maintenance at home ftkusa ali

Lighting: Ficus ali needs diffused sunlight, especially a variegated color. But it feels good in the semi-shade. Prefers southeast or east windows. Be afraid of drafts. Changes in climate and lighting negatively affect the ficus.

Temperature: Comfortable room temperature is 22-24°C, in cold weather it feels great even at 16°C. In the summertime, prefer more sunlight.

Sudden drops in temperature have a painful effect on the flower, especially when the temperature of the earthen coma in the pot drops. Afraid of direct air blowing from the air conditioner or heater. Prefers all the time Fresh air. Ventilate the room regularly by moving the ficus to a cozy place without drafts.

Air humidity: Not whimsical to special indicators of humidity. Preferably moderate humidity 50-70%. In a hot dry period, the leaves must be sprayed. Use settled water, above room temperature. Humidify indoor air.

Soil: Purchased soil is used for ficuses, or palm trees, and they are also prepared on their own.

Required components: sand, peat and turf in the same proportions.

Adult ficus ali prefers more sheet mixture: turf and leaf (2 parts each), peat, or sand (1 part), humus (1 hour).

Another option: turf, leaf, peat and sand in the same proportions.

Watering: Watering is carried out after the soil in the pot has dried out by 2-3 cm. Loose soil indicates the need for watering. Do not leave water in the tray. Be sure to drain, otherwise the root system will begin to rot.

Top dressing: Top dressing is applied 2 times a month with alternating mineral and organic substances, which are sold in any flower shop. Feed periodically, from spring to autumn. In winter, ficus does not need fertilizer. Top dressing is added directly to the earthen ball, without touching the trunk and stems. In water, you can also add purchased, essential nutrients for palm or ficus.

Transfer: This procedure is carried out as soon as the roots wrap around the ground in a pot. The soil begins to dry out faster, this is a signal for a ficus transplant.

Move to a pot a little larger than the previous one. The frequency of replanting is 1 time per year for young plants, and 2 times for ficus older than 4-5 years.

The soil is partially used old, with the addition of fresh. Older specimens do not need new soil at all.

Too large ali ficuses in greenhouses are not completely transplanted, but only the top layer of the earth is removed and a new one is added. As a rule, these procedures are carried out from spring to early autumn, during the period of active growth.

Propagation: Propagated by cuttings. Ficus is not whimsical and takes root well. From early spring to summer, the stem cutting is cut with a sharp knife and placed in a jar of water and placed in a cozy shady place. The temperature must be maintained at least 20 °C. An indicator above 25-26 ° C will also negatively affect growth.

Humidify regularly during hot weather. As soon as the roots appear, usually up to 3 weeks, the cutting is transplanted into the ground.

Diseases: Ficus benedict, like any other representative of this species, is not whimsical in care and is very resistant to pests. Diseases rarely occur, but with proper care, diseases are not terrible.

Signs and causes of the disease:

• the leaves turn black and fall, most likely, the temperature often changes with a difference of 7 degrees.
• yellow and wilted leaves. Too much or too little sunlight.

Mealybug white color, wadded form, small lumps. Often appears on the branches and at the base of the leaves. After watering, they are clearly visible on the surface of the earth.

Shield yellow. Small tubercles are visible on the leaf plates.

The aphid is located near the peduncle.

If the soil is too wet, centipedes, or spider mites, may appear. If pests are found, it is necessary to wash them off with a damp sponge, or rinse the entire ficus under a flowing warm water. Spider mites or centipedes are completely eliminated by replacing the soil.

Also use a soap-alcohol solution.

Recipe: 1 liter of water, 1 teaspoon of laundry soap and 1 tbsp. a spoonful of alcohol. Dilute everything well in water and wash the affected areas.

In addition to pests, ficus ali is also exposed to fungal diseases. Anthracnose and cercospores are more often affected in the form of black spots (dots) on back side sheet. Anthracnose appears on the trunk with a red bloom.

If the fungus is not detected and prevented in time, the plant may die, or lose almost all of its leaves.

The main rule is to overdo all the above care standards and your ficus ali will always be healthy and grow quickly.

Inexperienced flower growers, having met this plant for the first time, may not recognize a ficus in it, but few of them will refuse to see it on their windowsill. Ficus Ali (Alii or Ficus Binnendijkii) is an evergreen tree of the Mulberry family. It grows naturally in Asian countries. Among all the varieties of the genus, it is he who is most often chosen for landscaping residential premises and offices.

Under the names "Ficus Ali" or "Ficus Binnendijka" hides a whole group of outwardly similar plants. In the 19th century, they were discovered and described by the Dutch gardener and botanist Simon Binnendijk. "Nakhodka" was subsequently named in his honor, and later colloquially the name was simplified to "Binnedik Ali", "Benedict Ali" and "Binnendik". That is, more specifically, Ali is a miniature indoor variety of a huge willow tree brought to Europe from the Asian tropics. Sometimes it is mistakenly considered a variety, but as you can easily see in appearance, these are different plants.

The most popular domesticated varieties (cultivars) of Ficus Binnendik are:

• Ficus Ali (Ficus Binnendijkii cv. Alii). It differs by slightly wider leaves than those of Ficus Binnendijkii. The most cultivated variety at home among all the other "Bennendikians".

  Ficuses can also be propagated by seeds. Such seeds are sold in many specialized stores. This is not the most popular method as it requires a lot of time and patience.

  Features of care

  This exotic green pet is not at all capricious in home care, it grows very quickly and after a couple of years after rooting it can rest against the ceiling. In order for a tree to conquer those around it with a well-groomed appearance, it is enough to create certain conditions for it.

  The soil

  The soil for the ficus willow must be fertile, loose, breathable, not retaining excess moisture. Alkaline and acidic soil types are not suitable. Cuttings can be planted in ready-made soils for palm trees and ficuses, or you can make up the soil mixture yourself. To do this, you need to take 2 parts of turf, 2 parts of rotted leaves, one part of sand, humus and peat.

  top dressing

  Fertilizers should be applied in the spring and summer months, alternating mineral and organic. Twice a month, a complex fertilizer intended for indoor flowers can be added to the water for irrigation. With the same regularity, you can spray the leaves with a weak solution for top dressing. During the dormant period (late autumn and winter), feeding is stopped.

  Microclimate

  The best place for Binnendijk varieties is away from direct sunlight and radiators. Most comfortable temperature air in the room in summer - + 20 -25 ° C, in winter - + 16-20 ° C. The air in the room should not stagnate. But you can’t open a window for ventilation, near which there is a pot or a tub with a tree, or you can’t hang an air conditioner over it: the ficus also can’t stand direct drafts.

  Humidity

  Watering should be moderate, settled water at room temperature. In winter, the frequency of watering is once a week, from spring to autumn - three times a week. Stagnation of moisture in the pot should not be allowed, this leads to rotting of the roots. Leaves, especially when the air in the room is overheated, are recommended to be sprayed regularly.

  The need for watering is determined by the condition of the soil in the pot - it should dry to a depth of 3-5 cm. If the surface layer of the soil crumbles easily in the hands and does not stick, the ficus is watered. Water is poured on top of an earthen coma in small portions in several stages. After half an hour, the water drained into the pan is drained, and the pan and the bottom of the pot are wiped dry.

  Lighting

  Ficus Binnendiyka Ali comes from subtropical forests, so she loves good lighting. It is also noteworthy that the warmer the room, the more he needs light. In their natural habitat, this feature is associated with the change of seasons. Diffused light is suitable for variegated varieties, penumbra is suitable for trees with dark green leaves. The preferred place on the windowsill is the south or east side.

  Transfer

  Young trees grow quickly, and every year they need to be transplanted into a new pot 3-4 cm larger than the previous one with a complete replacement of the soil. It is desirable that the pot is new, sterile. If the container has already been used, wash it thoroughly and disinfect it. Adult plants have to be replanted less often, every 3 years, by transshipment. Very large specimens are negatively treated for transplantation, they are left in place, but every year the top layer of soil must be updated.

  The best time for transplanting, the beginning of spring, when the tree awakens from dormancy. Drainage is poured into the bottom of the pot. A ficus is placed on it, and soil is evenly poured around from all sides. This is done regardless of whether the tree is transplanted with a complete replacement of the soil or transshipment with a clod of root earth. It is necessary to carefully monitor that the barrel stands up straight, without a roll in any direction. Then the soil in the pot is watered abundantly, and the transplanted plant is put in its original place. Subsequent watering is carried out as the soil dries.

  Ficus Ali does not like being moved, turned, he is a “homebody”, so you need to immediately look for a place for him indoors, given his future growth.

  pruning ficus binnendijk

  Care for indoor ficus includes mandatory shaping pruning. Without it, it will grow chaotically and lose its decorative effect. In order for an exotic grown at home or in the office to acquire a permanent shape, it is necessary to start cutting it from an early age, when the stems remain flexible. The best time for a "haircut" is spring. During this period, the green pet has a large supply of vitality, is able to grow evenly, throwing out many shoots.

  Thanks to pruning and shaping, the tree will be able to take the most different forms: arc, ball, bush, bonsai. Some masters give their green pets more complex configurations, which are equated with sculptures, and their creation is a kind of art - ficus weaving. This process is incredibly exciting, but requires patience and regularity.

  When it comes to pruning, there are a few things to keep in mind. New shoots are formed from the apical and lateral (axillary) buds. Apical buds develop faster and inhibit or even completely block the development of lateral buds. Pruning the apical bud during the period of its active growth (in spring) entails the active awakening of the axillary buds, from which, in turn, shoots begin to grow actively.

  Autumn-winter pruning carries the risk of one-sided development and the ficus will grow skewed. In addition, in autumn and winter, the ficus uses the nutrients accumulated in the ground parts during the period of active growth, and pruning deprives the plant of these reserves.

  The formation of the crown is not only pruning, but the direction of the shoots in the right direction. This is done with the help of various devices. Therefore, before cutting off the shoot, it must be directed and fixed. After some time, the fixing device is removed.

  Pruning is carried out with a sharp knife or secateurs in next order:

  • remove the shoot above the kidney;
  • the cut site is wetted with a sponge until the milky juice ceases to stand out;
  • The “wound” is disinfected with charcoal or activated charcoal powder.

  Trunks can also be given interesting shapes by intertwining them. For this, 2-3 cuttings are planted in one pot. Spirals are formed from a pair of plants by twisting the stems. Of the three - weave a pigtail. Weaving is done freely so that the growth of the tree does not stop. Excess shoots and leaves are removed.

  Diseases and pests

  The question of what to do if the ficus is sick or attacked by pests is relevant, despite the fact that such troubles rarely happen with willow specimens. We list the main ones:

  • Leaves wilt and fall. A common cause is excessive soil moisture and root rot.
  • The development of the ficus has slowed down, it sheds its leaves. Often this happens due to lack of light.
  • The leaves shrivel and dry out. Often this is the result of direct sunlight hitting the crown. She needs to be shaded.
  • Brown spots appear on the edges of the leaves. The reasons may be different: an excessive amount of fertilizer, dry air, high room temperature.

  With insufficient care, the Binnendijka variety can be affected by pests. The most common among them:

  • Shields and false shields. Infection is manifested by loss of color and fall of foliage. On it you can see insects that look like black plaques. To remove them, wipe the leaves with a soft cloth moistened with soapy water.
  • Spider mite. It is easy to determine its appearance by the thinnest cobweb on the leaves, similar to white coating. To get rid of a tick, you need to wash the plant under the shower several times with a break in a week to increase humidity. Her spider mite does not tolerate.

  Useful properties of ficus Ali for humans

  In different peoples, all kinds of signs and superstitions are associated with the presence of ficus in the house. In Asian countries, it is believed that this tree is the patron saint of the hearth, helps to solve family financial problems, strengthens marital unions, and helps childless women become pregnant. The Slavs, on the contrary, often have a negative attitude towards the ficus, considering it a “husband” - a lover.

  True or not, we do not undertake to judge. In any case, it is wrong to consider the ficus growing in the house as only a decorative decoration of the space. It can bring a lot of benefits to a person:

  • purify the air in the premises, saturating it with oxygen and turning harmful substances into amino acids;
  • serve energy protection for the inhabitants of the house;
  • be the basis for the preparation of decoctions and alcohol tinctures that help with joint diseases, oral cavity, hematomas, female genital area.

  There is also an opinion that the ficus is poisonous. Indeed, since this tree is rubber-bearing, its milky juice contains rubber. If it comes into contact with the skin, it may cause itching and irritation. Therefore, it is better to carry out all work with gloves, and also put the pot with it in a place inaccessible to small children and animals.

  Growing ficus Ali is easy and interesting: unpretentious in care, it pleases with lush and bright foliage. It also gives flower growers the opportunity to show their creative talents by creating green sculptures of various shapes on their own windowsill. Flower growers who cultivate this exotic plant in their homes leave positive feedback about it and receive only positive emotions from “communication” with it.

Ficuses have long become familiar inhabitants of offices and homes. Of course, most often we meet ficus Benedict, but there are others no less interesting varieties this plant. These include, for example, narrow-leaved indoor plant Ficus Ali or Ficus Binnendijka Ali. In this article we will tell you what kind of care ficus Ali needs.

Ficus Ali is a plant that does not look too much like a ficus, which misleads many people. However, despite the peculiar appearance, it is still a homemade long-leaved ficus. Why is this ficus bin Ali so unlike other ficuses?

It's all about the leaves of this variety. While most ficus leaves are large, dense and have oval shape, the leaves are long and narrow. In length, these narrow leaves reach about 30 cm. different varieties This domestic ficus leaves are equally long, but may have a different color. In view of these features, this plant is also called "ficus willow".

As already mentioned, Binnendijk's ficus is represented by several varieties that differ slightly from each other.

Let's consider them in more detail:

1. Ficus Binnendijka Amstel King. Among its narrow-leaved counterparts, ficus Amstel King has the widest leaves. Also, the Amstel King variety has a rather high trunk and a spherical crown.
2. Ficus Amstel Gold. Narrow-leaved ficus, the leaves of which are painted in two colors - green and light green.
3. Ficus Amstel Queen. A variety that, in its characteristics, is very similar to the home variety of Ali, but it has slightly fewer leaves.

Caring for this willow plant is not at all difficult. It is necessary to comply with the minimum requirements that will allow the flower to grow and develop at home. So, what should be the care of ficus?

Lighting

The first thing you need to know to ensure proper care is the lighting requirements. It is clear that the plant will have to adapt to home conditions, but everything possible should be done to make its existence as comfortable as possible.

This flower loves light, so place it close to a window. When the sun is at its peak, it's a good idea to give your pet some shade to avoid sunburn. If you put it in the shade, be prepared for the fact that its leaves will begin to lose their brightness.

Frequent change of place also negatively affects, so do not rearrange the plant; immediately choose a place that will be perfect for him.

Temperature regime

Indoor ficuses are heat-loving plants, so a sharp drop in temperature can lead to their death. In summer, the optimum temperature is in the range of 22-24 degrees, and in winter you need to ensure that it does not fall below 17.

In addition, in the cold season, in no case should you place your pet next to the battery or other heating appliances. He is extremely negative about this. In addition, when caring for this flower, it is worth remembering that the required amount of sunlight increases with increasing room temperature.

Air humidity

Watering rules

Here you should be extremely careful and strictly follow the instructions for caring for the flower. The fact is that although this plant loves moisture, it suffers much more from waterlogging than from drying out. On average, it is twice a week, but do not forget to monitor the condition of the soil. In summer, you should let the top layer of soil dry out, but in winter it is recommended to wait until the entire soil is more or less dry.

Soil Requirements

You need to buy special soil for ficuses in the store, but you can try to cook it yourself. In order to make a nutritious light mixture, you will need peat, turf, fine sand, charcoal and brick chips. These elements must be mixed with each other in equal proportions and poured into. You will also need to punch drainage holes.

Top dressing with fertilizers

Top dressing is carried out in spring and summer (from March to August), and top dressing for ornamental plants is used for fertilizer. Also, the alternation of root and foliar dressings will have a good effect.

crown formation

Crown formation is one of the most important tasks for the owner of such a plant. After all, ficuses are mostly ornamental plants, so their appearance is great importance. Basically, it is necessary to form a crown when the flower becomes too "bushy". Then they cut it: it will retain its size, but it will take on a neater look.

In order to achieve maximum effect, shape the crown different ways. There are many tips on the Internet for shaping a crown of various shapes, so choose any option and experiment.

Transfer

The best time to propagate these flowers is late winter or early spring. It is during this period that their growth is activated, so by next winter your baby will be able to take root properly.

Protection against diseases and pests

Your pet may be adversely affected by various diseases due to improper care. Also, if you do not comply with all the necessary conditions, there is a chance to detect harmful insects on the leaves of the flower. Because proper care is best defense and prevention of various pests.

• For example, if you take care of a flower incorrectly, a mealybug may appear. It is removed either mechanically or using a very weak solution of alcohol.
• If scale insects attacked your pet, use a soapy solution or (if the process has already gone too far) use insecticides.
• They get rid of the spider mite, creating a kind of greenhouse effect. If the desired result does not come, use insecticides.

Remember that insecticides are toxic, so take care of your protection.

Video "Ficus Ali Care"

From this video you will learn how to properly care for Ali variety ficus.

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