Creeping fig, or Ficus pumila, is a popular and versatile plant that can be used as ground cover or grown on walls and trellises for its attractive foliage. Propagating creeping fig is relatively easy, and in this blog post, we will discuss different methods to propagate the plant.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are one of the most common ways to propagate creeping fig. Follow these steps:
1. Choose a healthy stem from your existing creeping fig plant.
2. Cut a 4-6 inch portion of the stem using clean scissors or pruning shears.
3. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
4. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
5. Plant the cutting into moist soil with perlite (or other well-draining potting mix) covering just above where you removed leaves.
Place it in an area with indirect light and keep it moist until new roots form – usually within two to four weeks.
Propagation by layering
Layering is another effective way to propagate creeping fig plants without causing damage to existing ones. Follow these steps:
1. Identify a low-growing branch on your existing plant that can reach down towards soil level easily
2. Use sharp scissors or pruners make slits at several points along this branch
3. Bend each slit section downwards so it points towards ground level,
4 Cover each slit part with well-draining soil (include one knot per covered hole)
5 Water regularly until new shoots develop; then separate resulting rooted stems from main plant when they get strong enough.
With this method, you won’t need additional rooting hormones since you’re using natural ethylene gas released by cut areas under covers which will promote root growth quickly.
Propagation through division
If your mature creeping fig has become too large for its current container, consider propagation by division instead of buying new plants altogether! Here’s how to do it:
1. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot, being mindful of any roots that may be exposed or damaged.
2. Gently loosen and separate the root ball by teasing apart tangled roots with your fingers or a large fork.
3. Cut off any dead or rotting roots with clean scissors or pruning shears.
4. Divide the plant into two equal parts using a sharp knife, making sure each section has healthy foliage and roots
5. Repot both halves in fresh soil
Keep newly divided plants in an area with indirect light and continue regular watering until they are established.
Conclusion
Propagating creeping fig can be done through stem cuttings, layering, division, among other methods- all practical for different situations depending on what supplies you have at hand! Follow our detailed steps above for easy propagation success rates that will lead to more beautiful greenery around your home today!
