Ficus Benj. That Needs Some Help :)

RWillieK

I bought this today at a florist. He said they have had it for three years, so I am assuming its three to four years old.

I definatly needs a hair cut. I'd like some suggestions on what to do with it. I would like a broom style, but with the split trunk, I know it may not work out that way.

The trunk is about 3/4" wide just above the base.

What style pot would you guys recommend? I was thinking of a round pot, about 1.5-1.75" tall or so.........I'm sure this tree has never been root pruned.

Thanks for the suggestions!!

Robbie

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Bonjakob

I think the broomstyle would work.. i'm not an expert but I made a little virtual for you.

Attached Images

benjamin1 copy.jpg (16.2 KB, 89 views)

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RWillieK

That does work.....just need to get out the clippers

Thank you!

Robbie

discobassoonist

RWillieK,

nice purchase!!! I also liked bonjakobs' virt, very nice idea. I think the tree does want to be somewhat of a broomstyle.

My suggestions, from just looking at your 2 photos, are this:

1. When you decided to start clipping this guy, try and make a sense for how tall you want it. There are many factors that involve it's hieght. For instance, where the best branches are to start the actual broom.
2. The proportions of the broom and trunk must be harmonious, or you will end up with a problem that might not be reversable at the moment.
3. With regards to the actual broom, consider looking for the main few branches that are to become the base of the broom. Remove the twiggyness from the bottom of those branches, so that the tree is "open."
4. The ends of those branches, should be well ramified, lots of small twigs.

In the drawing I inclosed, I started with 2 identical branches that start the broom branching from the trunk. The one on the left is most likey what you will have in the raw, and the one on the right is how I think you should "clean" the branches up.

Please keep us posted on the progress of this! It looks like it's going to be a lot of fun,
Dane

Attached Images

ficus broom.jpg (8.0 KB, 75 views)

RWillieK

Thanks Dane, I intend to do a lot of cleaning on it, as it has received little attention in that department. I wish I knew someone close who has grown bonsai. I'm looking for some guidance as to where to make the top of the broom.

Thanks.

Robbie