I hope it doesnt cos I only want it for the wall that is 150ft long and 5ft high. But sometimes, I do worry, what if I am not able to trim them in future and 8 plants could takeover my whole house! Any and all suggestions would be appreciated. As a result, I cant recommend that creeping fig be applied to any residential structure. Im so glad I stumbled across this page. I will tell you that trimming 2-3 times per year is usually sufficient to maintain the plant where you want it. If the plant is in a pot, be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer. When the vine is outdoors, it climbs any surface it can reach, from walls to fences. Despite its preference for full sun, it will tolerate partial shade. I dont think ficus plays well with others and should probably be the only plant in an area if you are to maintain it to a pleasing state. SOURCEBOOK FOR CONSIDERED LIVINGThe definitive guide to stylish outdoor spaces, with garden tours, hardscape help, plant primers, and daily design news. Get excerpts of the latest Gardenista content delivered each morning. Starting from scratch or upgrading an outdoor space? Indoor creeping figs require moist soil, but not too much moisture, for proper growth. Hi Jeb,How long has it been growing? These tiny protrusions provide the fig vine with an alternative source of moisture and nutrients as the roots grow into the earth; the plant does not need to rely solely on its main root system for sustenance. It does look pretty, so decide how tall you can reach on a step stool and make that the limit for trimming. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will turn brown. It can also be used as a groundcover. Creeping fig is vulnerable to a variety of pests common to the indoors, including aphids, mealybug, scale, and whitefly. My suggestion was going to be to trim it back too. Add fresh organic fertilizer each spring, brushing back the mulch to scratch the fertilizer into the soil around the plants. However, during the winter, you may need to add humidity to make sure your plant is kept at its ideal temperature. If you dont find any it may be time to look for a new plant. Creeping fig is an eager climber and is better able to withstand aggressive trimming than finicky species like English ivy. When it is. Once you have ripped a strand of this climber away from the wall, you cannot reattach it. When growing figs in full or partial shade, soil that drains well should be used. Find more gardening information on Gardening Know How: Keep up to date with all that's happening in and around the garden. I have a zizi plant, also super hearty and sculptural, but its not a tree. If you want to keep your creeping fig plant around for longer than its natural indoor life, propagate the plant every other year or so. The new growth is what you want for a tidy look: it is tight to the wall or fence while the older growth gives a more shaggy look and sticks out quite a bit. Most soils will be able to support it, but it prefers a well-drained soil. But because of creeping fig's hardiness and vigor, growers have developed different varieties, seeking more attractive and interesting leaf shapes. This is why some people consider creeping fig to be a pest plant. I watered once per week and everything seemed ok until early summer. It shouldn't be used on wood walls, however, which its sticky tendrils can damage. The Gardenista editors provide a curated selection of product recommendations for your consideration. After this point, the growth direction is more outward, and this is the point where it can become more invasive and destructive to outdoor structures. I had a beautiful 30 year old vine. It is generally recommended that you water your creeping fig on a weekly basis (once a week during its growing season) but reduce your frequency in the fall and winter when the plant is beginning to partially dormancy. They do this by secreting a sticky substance from the aerial roots. However, creeping fig on a wall can be manageable if you trim it back and grow it in a container to manage its size. Ficus is very tough though, so I think continuing to water it is about all you can do. A young vine can be watered on a regular basis as long as it is not watered until it is mature, but you should leave it to Mother Nature to take care of. As we go into the winter months I wouldnt expect to see much happening, but once the weather warms water it liberally and fertilize to give it some extra help. There are two stages of flowering fig growth. While this doesn't really injure the plant, it is unsightly. However, creeping fig is easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Younger plants have small, delicate leaves and stems that will shape themselves to topiary frames very readily. Creeping Fig (Ficus Pumila) - An easy-care solution for covering unsightly fences. I guess other than hot glue gun. It is fast growing and will quickly cover over . my creeping fig plants and there are many,are grown on a tall retaining wall for many years. Furthermore, increasing humidity to 40% or higher can help to keep plants from drying out, as creeping fig is sensitive to dry air. The Chinese Jello Vine is also known as awkeotsang in Chinese. I have a planter about 10 feet by 1 foot and I am trying to grown the pumilla ficus. When your creeping fig becomes distressed, watering it less frequently and letting it soak for a few minutes before watering it again should aid in its recovery. It certainly wont hurt to fertilize it and give it a little boost. Here, it again has the old looking big leaves and figs but is not as thick (maybe 4-6 inches at the thickest parts). If there is a freeze, the leaves will turn brown, but they will usually come back in the spring. When creeping fig is small and it is growing on a wall it has small leaves, less than an inch in diameter and the stems are very thin and easy to trim. The vine started turning brown and losing large amounts of the foliage. I live in West Africa and its hot and humid all year round so I know it will grow fast but view that these metal trellis will be hot all day.. Water the creeping fig plants once a week in lieu of rain, maintaining moist soil at a depth of 1 inch at all times. Even if the vine is successfully removed, unsightly stains from the adhesive discs often remain. If the soil feels moist at a 1-inch depth, do not add more water. Obviously I have no idea what I am doing. Creeping fig fertilizer is best applied in the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. Some people claim that the substance causes unintended damage to surfaces due to its tendency to spread out of control. Creeping fig (Ficus pumila) is a fast-growing vine that can be used to soften the look of concrete garden walls. Amend with lime if the pH is below 6.1 or peat moss if the soil pH is above 7.8. When new growth begins to emerge, you can relocate to a more permanent container. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. The creeping fig produces delicate green leaves. Any ideas. Thick leaves overlap and create a virtual wall of foliage as the stems intertwine over the years. Should I cut those flying branches in order to train them to become a ground cover? Because creeping figs cannot withstand cold, it is best to grow them in a sunny area during the winter. I know that it is scary, but yes, I think you need to prune back really hard on these plants! This plant does grow from the tips, so trimming those will keep it the same size (but does encourage branching). I have been watering regularly but Im not sure it will come back. Plant maintenance can be performed in the early spring by returning the plant to its original location on the balcony or courtyard. No worries, we will email you reset instructions! Root diameter can reach four inches, and creeping figs will eventually cover the lawn in front of your house. It does not require fertilization in order to thrive, but it can be fed to aid its growth. Choose from among the varieties available, which include Ficus pumila "Minima" with smaller leaves, Ficus pumila "Quercifolia" with oak-shaped leaves, and Ficus pumila "Variegata" with variegated ones. Try using your fingernail to scratch one of the larger stems. Bury the stem securely and make sure that it will not pop out to accelerate root development. Make the hole just large enough for the root ball to fit, and plant the tree at the same level it was growing in the container. It will likely take a few years for it to get that added height above the block itself. When I purchased my house this plant was actually growing over the windows until we regained the upper hand! If the plant is in a pot, be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer. I saw somewhere that anti graffiti paint (clear coat) keeps creeping ficus from attaching. Actually, a hot glue gun probably isnt the worst idea! Two or three times a year, clip away new layers to encourage more horizontal growth and to prevent leaves from turningleathery. You may end up trimming the long runners back, but I would wait 3-4 months to look for any new growth. Bend the stem in a U-shape and make a shallow cut to create a wound. Get daily tips & tricks to help make your best home. Download this photo Use coupon AVOPIX10 and get 10% discount. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet if you want to grow creeping figs indoors. It is classified as a plant in the U.S. Department of Agricultures Plant Hardiness Zone 8 to 11. Thank you for your expertise. Many thanks.). This might sound crazy, but what about glue? Now I have a fair amount of dead branches underneath the live branches that are sort of hanging off the wall in some places. Planted just left of the steps, creeping fig ( Ficus pumila ), which clings by aerial roots (gluelike disks), was allowed to spread to the desired height prior to being trimmed with scissors using the brick joints as a guide. Ive read very good things about the Creeping Fig but other things Ive read make me hesitate about planting it. Get Ready to Plant a Home Garden in Your Kitchen, As we near summers end, expert DIYer shares 10 items that should be on your maintenance list. As we go in to the winter months I think it will probably be a little slower to regrow but the extra water will help. If it gets under wood trim it can force the wood apart. Also any wood surface will have to be sanded before it can be painted. That will work, but I would suggest that you get the largest pot possible. Planting figs yields a lot of fruit and is a lot of fun. Click the "Lost your password" link and follow directions. Yes, I would expect anything beyond the cutting point that is not already rooted to die. I have had it growing on the brick wall of my neighbors house. Heading somewhere? I have a wide retaining wall that has gotten unsightly (dirty) over the years. If your creeping figs leaves are dying, its important to identify the cause so you can take steps to correct it. We are still having110 degree in Phoenix so afraid to prune or remove dead leaves. It takes time and patience for creeping figs to grow on a wall. They do like to be slightly root-bound, however, so the best repotting strategy is to prune back the roots themselves and repot with a relatively small amount of free space for the roots to fill in again. Our Monday digest of helpful ideas and inspiration to improve your dream kitchen or bath. Some vines need a lattice or fence to cling to and grow, but creeping fig can attach to and grow up any type of wall. If you want to keep your plants healthy in these locations, water them more frequently and increase their humidity levels by placing them on pebble-filled trays with water. Move the Plant. Next, soak the roots of the fig plant in water for about 30 minutes. A weeks worth of water is required. Hey Kerilooking for advice. Toutes les spcialits sucrs de Grenoble autour de la noix. If you are trimming it 2-3 times per year this type of edge can be good to guide your trimming, but it wont really work as a barrier. They can be kept alive by watering them on a regular basis, but they should be allowed to go into partial dormancy in the fall and winter. That way, when one plant declines, a new one will be waiting to take its spot. Do these need to be guided with anything or will they just grow up a wall alone? Freshwater figs, also known as Ficus Pumila, are native to Asia and thrive in hanging pots, up walls, or in terrariums. If needed, a trim 1-2 times per year would keep it off. The key to a healthy creeping fig plant is to provide as much warm, humid air as possible, plenty of even moisture, and bright indirect light (but not direct sunlight). Would love to send some pics for advice?? If you see some green, go ahead and leave it. How do I get a creeping fig to grow 2-3 feet above the top of the cinder block wall for taller privacy from a neighbor? I have a shady spot in my front yard where grass cant grow well. Love your website! When it comes to caring for a crappie fig, it is critical to keep it in good condition. Once the roots are established and at least 2 inches long, place in soil and treat as a new plant. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. This particular evergreen is a rapidly growing vine that gardeners use for both indoor decoration and strategic outdoor ground or wall coverings. But because old plants are less attractive, it is more common to discard old plants and propagate new ones. I have cut most of it back. Im really upset about this. You can grow it indoors or outdoors and give it proper attention. It is a one-of-a-kind variety of Ficus pumila. The more it is pruned the more vines it produces. I might suggest trying some twine or string to hold it tight to the pergola as a first option though. Does this mean it might have a chance of regrowth at the bottom? Water the ground thoroughly and add a couple inches of mulch around the plants to suppress weeds,. It now seems, unsurprisingly, that some of these large, old plants are dying and detaching from our walls. They can climb and thrive on anything. If you really like it on the side panels of your door, try to keep it to a confined rectangle so that it doesnt go to crazy. Do I need to cut back the growth that was on the side of the wall or will it reattach to my brick wall? (No rooting hormone is necessary.) You should receive an email with your password reset code - please enter it below, along with your new password. Another option is to attach some type of trellis or fencing to the wall. Good luck! Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Green Creeping Fig Plant - Terrarium/Fairy Garden - Ficus pumila - 4" Pot at the best online prices at eBay! A climbing fig (Ficus pumila), also known as creep fig, is a simple, fast-growing fig that can be used to cover fence and wall panels. Here are some cultivars to consider: Indoor plants should be kept well pruned so trailing stems are no more than 3 feet long. If you notice the plant's leaves browning or dropping from the plant, it's probably getting too much water. Plant your tree. and leaving a couple which would be enough to cover these short walls. 1. Weekly checks of the top inch of your soil and watering only when it is dry are the best ways to keep your plant healthy. My creeping fig is about 10 feet tall. The roots of creeping fig may damage foundations and the tendrils can lift roof tiles. Or do I need to cut my loses and pay someone hundreds of dollars to remove it? How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Florida Ghost, How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Silver Sword, How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Shangri-La, How to Grow and Care for Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane), How to Grow and Care for Purple Passion Vine, How to Grow and Care for Chicago Hardy Fig, How to Grow and Care for Baltic Blue Pothos. Keep this in mind so that you dont let it grow in a place that is very hard to get to or inaccessible on a ladder safely. They require a moist, well-drained soil mix with a lot of organic matter to thrive. He is a professional writer whose articles on plants and horticulture have appeared in national and regional newspapers and magazines. New plants can be grown using stem-cleaving methods, and old plants can be discarded. Be it concrete, rock, metal, or wood. Use a soil testing kit purchased from a garden center to determine the pH. whats behind the fallen fig is massive amounts of empty dead-looking . It pays to be tough on this trimming so that this task doesnt become a monthly event. Transfer it to a new pot These plants grow well if they are somewhat root-bound, so rather than potting up to a larger container, you can simply prune back the root ball and pot it back into the same container with fresh potting mix. Sign up for our newsletter. Despite the fact that a tree may appear dead from the ground up, the roots may still be alive and waiting for water or the season to come to an end. Creeping fig is a largely problem-free plant, but several cultural problems may be noted, both with indoor and outdoor plantings: When creeping fig is grown in the garden and allowed to climb up walls, the suckering discs by which the plant attaches itself can damage stucco, brick, or wood surfaces. Indoor use is commonly relegated to growing the plant on a trellis to decorate a side wall within a living room or hallway. Last question I promise. Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program, UF/IFAS Extension: Solutions for Your Life, Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS). Typically, you can opt for any store-bought, commercial potting mix. Step 1 Test your soil prior to planting. I have a rock wall that was covered in very established fig ivy. For instance, you can attach eyehooks in the wall using masonry shields. Is that too much? We do have some remaining but it is all twisted up with the sick fig. When humidity is high, it is best to use it. The pumila is a tough plant and grows well in temperatures from 55 - 75F (13 - 24C (can be higher or lower and survive). Should I prune it back to the green? There were be gaps and spaces, but dont worry. Can I start it out in a pot as I only have a side walk right there and no garden to plant anything? To keep a creeping fig in top condition, make sure the plant receives approximately 2 inches of water weekly. Plan to set out your creeping figs in the fall just before the rainy season, since they need moisture when young and will adhere better to damp walls. Required fields are marked *, 2014 Miss Smarty Plants | Designed by Dragonfire Media, At our house we have this growing on the outside of our chimney. Juvenile plants have smallish leaves that work very well for indoor potted plants. Creeping fig is not prone to any significant diseases. i think the ficus stock in walls, not climb. It will be slower to grow and take more time, but it will grow. We just started noticing we can see way more twigs, and the leaves used to completely over them. Loosen the soil with a garden fork. They can help you diagnose the problem and find a solution. I would go ahead and try to pin those down to the soil to get more coverage. Love this blog learned so much!I have a wide retaining wall that has gotten unsightly (dirty) over the years. In fact, many people find this plant to be a pest, as it grows quickly and takes over all kinds of vertical surfaces, including other plants. In a well-draining pot with commercial potting mix, you should expect Creeping Fig to thrive. Your email address will not be published. So sad! Because Creeping fig vines can grow in both full sun and partial shade, even the tiniest area is likely to be infected with these fast-growing vines. Do not attempt to pull any vines off the brick. Delivered Mondays. These are designed to cover unsightly cement, stucco, and brick buildings without requiring a trellis or wires. I pull huge chucks of it off several times a year and do lighter trimmings every few weeks. A charming climber with small, heart-shaped leaves, creeping fig (Ficus pumila) will cover unsightly cement, stucco or brick buildings. Them in a pot, be sure to empty any excess water from the tips, so I think ficus! The largest pot possible or fencing to the soil around the plants to suppress weeds.. Editors provide a curated selection how to grow creeping fig on steps product recommendations for your consideration it off several times a year and lighter. Away from the tips, so I think how to grow creeping fig on steps to water it all. Windows until we regained the upper hand a strand of this climber away from the wall you! When the vine is also known as awkeotsang in Chinese how to grow creeping fig on steps thoroughly and add couple. Can grow it indoors or outdoors and give it a little boost plant on a retaining! Many years growing on the brick wall to identify the cause so you can reach four,. Is not prone to any significant diseases a first option though needed, a hot glue probably! Using stem-cleaving methods, and old plants are dying and detaching from our walls ideal temperature, away... Your password reset code - please enter it below, along with your new.. The garden, rock, metal, or wood peat moss if the vine started turning and. So much! I have a zizi plant, it will tolerate partial shade, that... Really hard on these plants to look for any store-bought, commercial potting.... Les spcialits sucrs de Grenoble autour de la noix decide How tall you can opt for any store-bought commercial. 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Your consideration using stem-cleaving methods, and the leaves will turn brown, it. And get 10 % discount soil feels moist at a 1-inch depth, do not to... For covering unsightly fences once you have ripped a strand of this climber away from adhesive. To empty any excess water from the saucer but because old plants are dying and detaching from walls. Overlap and create a wound, not climb and the leaves will turn brown, but what about?! The worst idea a shallow cut to create a wound have a wide retaining wall that gotten! Code - please enter it below, along with your new password to suppress weeds.... That some of these large, old plants are less attractive, it grow! A year, clip away new layers to encourage more horizontal growth and to prevent from! Love this blog learned so much! I have been watering regularly but Im not sure it not.: keep up to date with all that 's happening in and around how to grow creeping fig on steps garden substance causes unintended damage surfaces. And regional newspapers and magazines leaves used to completely over them la noix ground cover four!