Artificial Ficus-A Safe Alternative

The Ficus Tree is one of the most popular decorative house plants, so if you’re in the market for one, you are certainly in good company. Though you may like the idea of owning a live ficus tree, don’t rule out opting for an artificial ficus before learning about the potentially-destructive growing habits of the Ficus Benjamina, which is, by the way, the scientific name for the ficus tree.

The ficus is commonly called a Weeping Fig, but it also has another name with a negative connotation: the strangler fig. Ficus trees, which are native to Asian countries, grow off one another. Their seeds spread among the canopies of existing ficus trees, and they sprout from there. Roots grow downward until they reach the ground and implant. During this process, a number of things can happen that can kill off the larger host tree. Early on, the young ficus may grow so quickly that it damages or kills its host by creating too much shade. This kind of early strangling happens before the roots of the new ficus tree have even hit the ground. Should the host tree survive long enough for the new tree to become rooted in the ground beside it, it becomes subject to a new threat: root competition. The roots of the new ficus may become snarled with the roots of its host, and eat up the majority of the nutrients in the soil, thereby starving the host. And if root competition doesn’t kill the host, the new ficus may crowd it, keeping it out of direct sunlight, thereby ending photosynthesis. So, surviving as a host ficus tree is fraught with danger.

But that’s not the point. The point is an indoor or outdoor ficus tree is very good at growing deep roots and sprouting up high. So if you’re keeping one, chances are they could do damage to surrounding plants and trees, and even structures. Buildings of old masonry construction may be the first to fall prey to ficus tree roots, which may grow into the walls of such buildings causing the structural integrity to deteriorate. Even newer structures can fall victim to ficus tree roots, which can ruin poured concrete pavements, foundations, and swimming pools.

Instead of risking this destruction, why not look for an artificial ficus, which is guaranteed to stay the exact same size it is the day you bring it home. Keeping a potted artificial ficus in the home is a stylish way to introduce greenery without all the hassle the live ficus can bring. A wonderful selection of indoor and outdoor artificial ficus options can be found here. The high-quality construction of these trees is guaranteed to please even the most skeptical customers. Enjoy the search!