The birch fig takes it easy with its annual growth. However, every 3 to 4 years it is necessary to extend the normal care program by changing to a larger bucket with fresh substrate. These instructions explain in detail when and how to expertly repot a Ficus benjamina.
The Ficus Benjamini rarely needs to be repotted
Time slot is open in spring
Since a Ficus benjamina is repotted at intervals of 3 to 4 years, this care measure means a high level of stress for the exotic green plant. By choosing a date between the end of hibernation and the start of the new growing season, you effectively prevent transplant shock.
Step-by-step instructions - repotting a birch fig made easy
Do not choose the new bucket too big. There should not be more than 2 fingers of space between the root ball and the edge of the pot so that the birch fig continues to develop bushy and compact. As a substrate, we recommend potting soil with coconut fibers as a peat substitute. Inorganic additives such as perlite (€37.51) or lava granules (€13.99) optimize permeability. How to skillfully repot the plant:
- Run a flat knife between the substrate and the edge of the pot to loosen the root ball
- Grasp the birch fig by the root neck and pull it out of the bucket
- Shake or shower off the old substrate
- In the new bucket, lay a 2-3 cm layer of expanded clay (€19.73) on the bottom as drainage
- To protect against silting, cover the drainage with an air and water-permeable fleece
Fill in a first layer of the substrate over the fleece. Measure the height so that the birch fig is about 2 cm below the edge of the pot. Water the plant thoroughly. Let the room-warm, lime-free water run onto the fresh soil until the saucer fills up. Pour this out after 10 minutes so that no waterlogging can form. Fertilize the repotted Ficus benjamina for the first time after 6 weeks at the earliest.
tips
When your Ficus benjamina loses its green leaves, waterlogging is one of the most common causes. This emergency overrides the usual appointment recommendation. Repot the suffering birch fig immediately according to these instructions, because every day in waterlogged soil is one day too many.