rock fig
Ficus petiolaris
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Air Layering Propagation,Stem Propagation,Root Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division
Hardiness Zone:
10 - 12
Flowers:
Green Flowers
Sun:
full sun,part shade
Fruits:
green,yellow Fruits Ready In
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Tropical:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Rock fig plants prefer to have evenly moist soil in their pots. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, approximately once a week. To test, stick your finger into the soil, if it feels damp, wait a few days before watering. During hotter months, they will need slightly more water, roughly every 4-5 days. When watering, do so thoroughly until the excess moisture begins to come out of the pot’s drainage holes. Make sure to reduce the frequency during the winter months as the plant will need less water due to the cooler temperatures and lower light.
sunlight
Rock figs will need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day to reach its full potential and thrive. Too much direct sunlight or even too little direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant. For best results, it is best to provide the plant with dappled shade for about 6 hours in the morning and then a few hours of direct sunlight in the afternoon. If you can provide your rock fig with an optimal amount of sunlight, it will reward you with lush green foliage.
pruning
Rock figs are typically pruned twice a year; once during late winter or early spring and again during late summer or early fall. The amount of pruning for Rock figs should be kept to a minimum, as cutting too much of the foliage can affect the health of the plant. When pruning, remove no more than 1/3rd of the foliage. Keep in mind that these plants flower on the current year's growth, so try to minimize flower and fruit removal to maximize the chance of a good harvest. Also, try to keep the pruning symmetrical in order to maintain a pleasing shape.