Moving in Winter (Ficus Retusa)

Amethyst

Hello,
I am posting here for the second time because I am moving this winter. Because of the great advice I got on this forum last year my beautiful Ficus Retusa (Ginseng or Banyan Fig) is thriving. He used to look like a little fat guy with a belly, but he has slendered out and gotten taller. Not as cute but certainly healthy. I am planning on moving from Oklahoma to Oregon either in December or January, and I want to take him with me. I'm worried about drafts as it is unlikely that I will be able to take him in the cab of the moving van. Does anyone have some helpful hints on how to shield him from drafts and the winter cold in a moving van? Does anyone have experiences moving bonsai that might be helpful? If so please reply.

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pootsie

Hi amethyst!

I can share with you some harsh lessons at least. I had a ficus that I carried outside during a very cold winter, and the cold winds dried up most of the leaves. At least half fell off.


I think F.retusa (aka microcarpa) are hardy enough to withstand some frost, but the freezing wind is bad. So whatever you do, I recommend protecting it from wind during transit. I moved a few months ago and had some tropical plants in the back of the moving van. They made it through OK

good luck

pootsie

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p.s. My cat is a bonsaiTALK Master.
Columbus Bonsai Society

Dale Cochoy

If it will fit in a cheap styrofoam cooler, use that.
If you can't find one it will fit in, double bag it in a couple trash bags.
Dale

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If you want to be Different....
You have to DO something Different!
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Some people NEVER take the time to do a job right the first time....
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Dale Cochoy
Wild Things Bonsai Studio
Yakimono no Kokoro Bonsai Pottery
Hartville, Ohio