In this video, we check back in with a Ficus benjamina that was rooted with rooting hormone. See all of the new growth on the plant since the last check-in. Hard-stemmed plants like Ficus benjamina are best rooted in propagation medium using rooting hormone.
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Today, I have a Ficus benjamina check-in. I’m checking in on this little Ficus benjamina that I propagated from leaf cuttings. The original propagation was in late January 2023, and it’s now the end of May—so about four months later. The plant is growing really well. In my last check-in, it had three leaves. Now it has six, plus two little new leaves forming—making it eight in total!
I’m thrilled to have a new baby Ficus benjamina. I also have a care video on this plant, and I’ll include the link below along with any related videos.
In the last update, I repotted the plant, but as of now, it doesn’t need another repotting. There are no roots coming out of the bottom, and the pot-to-plant ratio is still two-thirds plant to one-third pot, which is ideal. However, it was time for nutrients, and I recently fertilized it.
To root the original cutting, I used root boost—essential for hard-stemmed plants like Ficus. While young stems may seem pliable, mature Ficus stems become very tough. Unlike soft-stemmed plants like pothos or philodendrons, Ficus often require rooting hormone for successful propagation.
After rooting, I transferred the plant from the propagation medium into Pro-Mix BX, which provides good nutrients. Recently, I noticed slight yellowing of a leaf—a sign that the plant needed fertilizing, particularly nitrogen. Now that it’s been fed, I expect the foliage to green up.
I fertilized with a product called Perky Plant, which I’ve used for a few years. It’s water-soluble and contains mycorrhizae, a beneficial fungus that enhances root growth, nutrient uptake, and resistance to pests and diseases.
I mixed the fertilizer at one-quarter strength, which is important for young plants. Over-fertilizing can burn the roots or cause the plant to decline. Always go slow with babies—quarter to half strength is best, and always choose organic fertilizers.
Another good addition is worm castings, which make a great top dressing and won’t harm the plant. Remember, you’re Mother or Father Nature when gardening indoors—treat your plants accordingly.
In addition to Perky Plant, I also used a product called Myco with a 3-0-3 NPK ratio. It contains nitrogen, potassium, beneficial bacteria, amino acids, botanical extracts, carbohydrates, and humic acids, which are essential for healthy plant growth.
By combining both Perky Plant and Myco at low doses, I’m promoting slow, steady, and healthy growth for this young plant. It’s grown significantly, and I’ll check in again in a few months—maybe sooner if it’s time to repot.
I’ve named this thriving little plant Freddy the Ficus!
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Ficus benjamina Propagation and Care FAQ
How long does it take for Ficus benjamina cuttings to root?
It typically takes about 4 months for Ficus benjamina cuttings to show strong growth after propagation, depending on conditions and care.
What type of rooting hormone should I use for Ficus?
Use a rooting hormone like Root Boost, especially since Ficus is a hard-stemmed plant and benefits from added support for root development.
When should I fertilize a newly propagated Ficus?
Start fertilizing once the plant has rooted and is actively growing. Use a quarter-strength organic fertilizer to avoid root burn.
Why are the leaves of my baby Ficus turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves may indicate a lack of nutrients, especially nitrogen. Applying a balanced organic fertilizer can help correct the deficiency.
What soil mix is best for young Ficus plants?
A nutrient-rich mix like Pro-Mix BX is ideal, as it provides good aeration and supports healthy root development for young plants.
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Fertilizer used on cuttings once rooted: https://amzn.to/3MKU8sV
Myco+ root booster: https://amzn.to/42AL3YD
ProMix BX Potting Soil used for plant: https://amzn.to/3iVIrjE
Worm castings: https://amzn.to/439RUIY
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