ficusfanatic

good stuff to start with there. i do like the little one as a broom and the larger as a informal upright. these trees can take a beating but start slow.

generally. remove any crossing branches. i see one on the little guy that goes all the way across the canopy (right to left in one of the pics) i also remove branches that grow straight up, or straight down. that'll give you a place to start.

you can also practice pinching new growth. on the bright green new shoots, pinch off the growing tip after two or three leaves. the last leaf you leave will send a new shoot, in the direction of that leaf. it's a good way to encourage growth where you want it.

but please continue reading. so much info on this site! have fun! (but not at the trees expense) keep us updated...

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-chris-