5-6+' Archives | PLANTZ Shop Large, Healthy Plants Online Wed, 11 Oct 2023 20:21:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.plantz.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/favicon.png 5-6+' Archives | PLANTZ 32 32 Braided Ficus Audrey https://www.plantz.com/product/braided-ficus-audrey/ https://www.plantz.com/product/braided-ficus-audrey/#respond Thu, 29 Jun 2023 22:26:30 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=70985 The Ficus benghalensis, affectionately referred to as 'Ficus Audrey', is swiftly outpacing the Fiddle Leaf as the fig family's most beloved member. Plant enthusiasts are enamored with it for good reasons - Audrey is notably resilient, showing superior tolerance to variations in soil moisture and requiring less light, although she thrives best in a healthy amount of filtered light.

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Also known as the Banyan Tree, the Ficus Audrey is a standout indoor plant from the renowned Ficus family – Moraceae. It proves less demanding than its Ficus relatives, making it an excellent choice for those whose green thumb might be still developing. Here’s everything you should understand about the Ficus benghalensis:

Watering

This plant is a bit more forgiving for over- and under-zealous plant parents and able to handle longer periods of moist or dry soil than its Ficus relatives.  It’s considered a moderate drinker, and can go for 2+ weeks without watering with the proper sub-irrigation system, but we suggest you probe the soil weekly for the first month and during hot summer months.  It will perform best if you’re able to thoroughly wet the soil and then let it dry (and we mean really dry) before watering it again.  See our watering-for-success guide for more information.

Light

With a little more leeway on the watering, let’s get the light right. While it can be maintained beautifully indoors in artificial light, it’s best to have it close to a window for some filtered sunlight –  east-, south-, and west-facing windows are best, so we’re classifying the Audrey as a “medium” light plant.  And, if you get it situated near a window, give your Ficus a quarter turn (aka “twist”) once a week – this will help let light penetrate from different angles and minimize the inevitable leaf drop from inside the plant’s canopy.

Nutrition

This Ficus likely will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped.  During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production.  After 12 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants – check out our nutrition products from Dyna-Gro.  If your Ficus is positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner than 12 months.  Keep an eye on the newer leaves – not the emerging ones; if the new leaves are yellow and the veins prevalent, it is possible it needs some nutrients.  Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

The Audrey leaf size is smaller than a Fiddle Leaf and bigger than an Alii and it usually has a more open canopy meaning you’ll have fewer leaves to clean than the ones on its cousins.  It does, however, have an interesting leaf texture and vein pattern so you might need to be a little more gentle with its leaves but simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick for removing dust.  For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth – then wipe, stroking the leaf away from the stem (and pulling on it lightly).

Pruning

The canopy of the Audrey is typically more open and we’ve witnessed its attempts to throw down some aerial roots and grow in some funky directions – we’re pretty sure that’s baked in to its DNA since it is, after all, a Banyan tree.  Regardless, you can tame yours with some infrequent, light pruning or you can let it do its thing and go “jungle” on you.  For the tame side, make pruning cuts to stems/branches that may be heading in the wrong direction and force new growth from the nodes.  Although this demonstration is with an (old) Fiddle Leaf Fig, it does get to the point on how best to prune any of the Ficus species from PLANTZ – Ficus pruning.

Bugs

Nary a worry here – Audrey’s not a big target for pests.  Scale, mealy bugs, and mites sometimes jump on, but they’re easily controlled by wiping the infested area with a soapy solution.  It can take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.  As always though, a regular cleaning/wiping regimen is best to keep any pests from taking up residence on your plant in the first place.

Trouble

Here are a few warning signs that your Ficus is getting ‘the funk’:

  • Leaf drop – If the lower leaves start to droop and then drop, it’s either :
    1. not getting enough light
    2. it’s getting too much water or
    3. (you guessed it), it’s not getting enough water

    Or…if you moved it from one light extreme to another, it could shed leaves.  The most likely issues (#’s 1, 2, and 3) are easily correctable.

  • Brown leaf margins – This is most likely from not enough light and under-watering.
  • Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This might be from too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The best part about any of the above is that they’re easily corrected.  The key, however, is recognizing the signs early and making the adjustment before too much damage occurs.And…Don’t forget the weekly twist to keep your Ficus evenly bathed in sunlight.

Warning

It has been reported that the sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses.  So, if you have a dog, cat, or horse, don’t let them ingest the sap.  It’s also been reported that the sap can cause allergic reactions for people too.  If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol; if it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes.  If none of this helps, call a doctor.

Fun Fact

As mentioned, the Audrey can develop aerial roots.  They can be tamed, but in its native habitat that’s how it forms ginormous canopies.  It can start out as an epiphyte, germinating from seed on the bark or branch crotch of another tree.  And that’s where it gets is most unusual name – the Strangler Fig.  After germinating, its roots attach to the host and then it puts out aerial roots eventually reach soil below.  Once it taps the soil, it can envelop and “strangle” the host plant out of existence using it for support while it develops even more roots.  Sometimes we have to ship the Audrey with a stake for support artificially simulating a “host”.

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Hawaiian Kentia Palm https://www.plantz.com/product/hawaiian-kentia-palm/ https://www.plantz.com/product/hawaiian-kentia-palm/#respond Thu, 01 Jun 2023 16:21:35 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=70546 The Hawaiian Kentia Palm is almost identical to the Florida Kentia Palm, however, while the Florida-grown palms are in "traditional" soil, the Hawaiian palms are grown in lava-rockbased soil.

Elegant and stately, the Howea forsteriana is one of the first plants cultured for use inside buildings (think hotel lobbies in classic Bogart films), and it stands the test of time.  It's also onepalm that can tolerate low-light conditions.  As part of our collection, it comes to us with a strong root system grown in lava rock from Hawaii or soil from Florida giving it long-lasting properties with very little fuss.  Using sub-irrigation, this plant can go nearly a month between waterings.  It's got a nice upright nature, but can spread its fronds over time.  With no disrespect for the less-expensive Areca Palm, don't confuse the two - the Kentia has a much lower light requirement, will last longer, and it is much more majestic in character.  If this plant is added to your favorite room, you will not be disappointed.

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If you want to make a tropical statement, with long-lasting and (nearly) care-free features, the Hawaiian Kentia Palm will deliver for you.  Here are some helpful hints on keeping your Kentia in great shape for years to come:

Watering

Our Kentia Palms come from top growers in both Florida and Hawaii and the soils differ considerably in their water-holding capacity.  Florida soils hold more water, while lava-rock Hawaiian soils drain more readily.  Regardless, the plants share the same characteristic – they like an evenly moist rootzone.  The Kentia should be watered thoroughly, around the entire soil surface, and not watered again until the soil feels dry – you’ll want a soil probe to help you determine relative soil moisture.    The Hawaiian soils are a different, and sometimes hard to probe, but it’s the best soil for plant owners that tend to over-water because there’s so much air space between the small particles of lava rock (cinder).  Please check out our watering guide for more information.

Light

While this palm has strong tolerance for lower light levels, much better than most palms, it will thrive in moderate and high light.  So, good filtered natural light or bright fluorescent light will keep this palm growing strong.

Nutrition

Like other plants right out of nursery production, you won’t need to feed this palm for at least 6 months after you get it.  That’s because there is residual nutrients in the soil from when the palm was being propagated.  After 6 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants.  Please refer to our plant nutrition guide for details.

Cleaning

An occasional wipe down with a damp cloth will keep your Kentia looking good.  That’s it.

Pruning

The older leaves on the Kentia Palm may turn yellow and brown.  So sweat…just prune off the leaf as close to the stem as possible.

Bugs

The biggest bug problem for this palm is scale.  They’ll show up as little brown bumps on the underside of the leaves and can be wiped off.  Because scale insects form a waxy proactive coating over their bodies, you will need to apply a little more pressure to dislodge the little boogers from their happy little spot on the underside of the leaves.

Trouble

Give it a little light and occasional water, and you should be in pretty good shape.

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Ficus Lyrata Bush https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-lyrata-bush/ https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-lyrata-bush/#respond Tue, 23 May 2023 12:25:03 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=69930 The Ficus lyrata bush, commonly known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, is a popular indoor plant cherished for its large, violin-shaped leaves. With its dramatic and lush foliage, it adds a touch of elegance to any space. Thriving in bright, indirect light, this Ficus variety brings a sense of natural beauty and sophistication to interior landscapes.

If you do not have a bright, sunny spot - on a patio or adjacent to an east, west, or (preferably) south window - please consider another plant from our low-light selections.  All Fiddle Leaf figs prefer bright light. 

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The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a really great plant for beginners and experts alike, and designers will appreciate what it can do in a photo.  Here’s what you need to know if you’re getting a Ficus Lyrata:

Watering

This plant is a moderate to heavy drinker, and can go for 2+ weeks without watering with the proper sub-irrigation system, but we suggest you check it weekly during the first 6-8 weeks after you get it and during hot summer months.  See our watering guide for more information.

Light

Next to watering, having adequate light is the most significant factor keeping your Lyrata happy inside.  Your best placement is near a window where the plant can get some sun light – east-, south- and west-facing windows are best.  It can also thrive in a room with strong ambient light.  If you want a good, sustainable indoor plant and don’t have good light, this is not the plant for you – unless you’re up for moving it for frequent trips to better lit areas.

Nutrition

The Fiddle Leaf Fig likely will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped.  During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production.  After 12 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants.  If your Lyrata is positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner than 12 months.  Keep an eye on the newer leaves – not the emerging ones; if the new leaves are yellow and the veins prevalent, it is possible it needs some nutrients.  Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

Here’s one of the greatest benefits of this plant – its large leaves are easy to clean and, overall, there are fewer leaves than many other interior plants.  Simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick.  For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth; then wipe.

Pruning

Many Fiddle Leaf Fig fans love to let this plant grow in all sorts of funky shapes.  If that’s not your style, and you want to maintain the plant’s height and girth, pruning cuts can be made just above any node (aka – right about a where a leaf attaches to a stem).  This will reduce the size of the plant and promote new growth from the point where the cut was made.  You can also trim or snap off leaves that have run their course.

Bugs

Here’s another plus, this plant is not a big target for pests.  Scale, mealy bugs, and mites sometimes jump on, but they’re easily controlled by wiping the infested area with a soapy solution.  It can take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.

Trouble

Here are a few warning signs that your Ficus Lyrata is getting the funk:

  • Leaf drop – If the lower leaves start to droop and then drop, it’s either :
    1. not getting enough light
    2. it’s getting too much water or
    3. (you guessed it), it’s not getting enough water

    Or…if you moved it from one light extreme to another, it could shed leaves.  The most likely issues (#’s 1, 2, and 3) are easily correctable.

  • Brown leaf margins – This is most likely from not enough light and under-watering.
  • Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This might be from too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The best part about any of the above is that they’re easily corrected.  The key, however, is recognizing the signs early and making the adjustment before too much damage occurs.

Warning

It has been reported that the sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses.  So, if you have a dog, cat, or horse, don’t let them ingest the sap.  It’s also been reported that the sap can cause allergic reactions for people too.  If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol; if it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes.  If none of this helps, call a doctor.

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Dracaena Marginata Open Braid https://www.plantz.com/product/dracaena-marginata-open-braid/ https://www.plantz.com/product/dracaena-marginata-open-braid/#respond Tue, 23 May 2023 11:57:58 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=69905 One of the all-time top indoor performers, the Dracaena cincta offers a distinctive multi-stem look with leaves that are deep green with a hint of color on the margins.  Also known as a Dragon Plant, its upright habit makes a nice presentation, especially against a solid background.  It's been billed for years as a low-light plant, but it needs a moderate amount of light to keep color in its characteristic leaves.  So, get it a spot near a window or put it on your porch for the summer.

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The Dracaena Marginata does well in moderate light, but will thrive in high light and it’s pretty forgiving for a forgetful plant owner.  In addition you may want to see our other Marginata’s the Marginata Colorama and the Marginata Kiwi. Here are some tips to keep it growing:

Watering

Like other members of the Dracaena family, it prefers its root zone on the dry side; so make sure the soil dries out between waterings.   See our watering guide for more information.

Light

Although it’s a Dracaena, the Marginata still needs at least moderate light. It’s great near a window with filtered light but not in a dark spot. Like others, do not expose this plant to direct sunlight or it will burn the leaves very quickly.

Nutrition

The Marginata will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped. During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production. After 6 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants. Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

This plant, with its numerous trunks and plentiful leaves is a bit more challenging to clean, but it doesn’t show dust as prevalently as the green Dracaenas.  While we prefer a cleaning regimen with water and a light soap solution, it would be okay to break out the feather duster on this plant.  Make sure your feather duster is clean though – it’s a primary way to get bugs from one plant to another.

Pruning

In good light, the Marge can grow tall and need to be pruned to maintain the desired shape.  Cut stems below where you’d like new growth to fill in, since the cut will prompt growth in that area.  The lower leaves can turn yellow and are easily pulled off.  See our pruning guide for details.

Bugs

The Marginata can attract mealybugs and mites.   Mealybugs will be the main pest, and sometimes scale will affect the plant. So, keep it clean.  Look for the little white cottony mealybugs at the base of the leaves and on the stems; mites will hide on the bottom side of the leaves and produce webs.  If you see either of these, break out the spray bottle with a light soap solution and spray them daily ’til they’re gone.

Trouble

In good light, this plant will not give you any trouble – provided you water it occasionally.

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Ficus Audrey https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-audrey/ https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-audrey/#comments Thu, 08 Sep 2022 16:16:37 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=58713 The Ficus benghalensis, better known to us as 'Audrey', and is racing to beat the Fiddle Leaf as the most popular fig.  And there's good reason plant lovers are adoring it - Audrey is much more forgiving with a better tolerance for soil moisture and even has a lower light requirement, although a good dose of filtered light is what'll keep it growing.  While we don't really know where it got its name, it's the same species of Ficus that form huge Banyan Tree canopies in its native India - yours can be pruned to fit right where you place it.  Audrey Hepburn would be proud.

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The Ficus Audrey is another great indoor performer from the Ficus family – Moraceae.   And it’s less finicky than its Ficus cousins making it it a good choice for plant lovers with less than a green thumb.  Here’s what you need to know about the Ficus benghalensis:

Watering

This plant is a bit more forgiving for over- and under-zealous plant parents and able to handle longer periods of moist or dry soil than its Ficus relatives.  It’s considered a moderate drinker, and can go for 2+ weeks without watering with the proper sub-irrigation system, but we suggest you probe the soil weekly for the first month and during hot summer months.  It will perform best if you’re able to thoroughly wet the soil and then let it dry (and we mean really dry) before watering it again.  See our watering-for-success guide for more information.

Light

With a little more leeway on the watering, let’s get the light right. While it can be maintained beautifully indoors in artificial light, it’s best to have it close to a window for some filtered sunlight –  east-, south-, and west-facing windows are best, so we’re classifying the Audrey as a “medium” light plant.  And, if you get it situated near a window, give your Ficus a quarter turn (aka “twist”) once a week – this will help let light penetrate from different angles and minimize the inevitable leaf drop from inside the plant’s canopy.

Nutrition

The Ficus Audrey likely will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped.  During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production.  After 12 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants – check out our nutrition products from Dyna-Gro.  If your Ficus is positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner than 12 months.  Keep an eye on the newer leaves – not the emerging ones; if the new leaves are yellow and the veins prevalent, it is possible it needs some nutrients.  Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

The Ficus Audrey leaf size is smaller than a Fiddle Leaf and bigger than an Alii and it usually has a more open canopy meaning you’ll have fewer leaves to clean than the ones on its cousins.  It does, however, have an interesting leaf texture and vein pattern so you might need to be a little more gentle with its leaves but simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick for removing dust.  For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth – then wipe, stroking the leaf away from the stem (and pulling on it lightly).

Pruning

The canopy of the Ficus Audrey is typically more open and we’ve witnessed its attempts to throw down some aerial roots and grow in some funky directions – we’re pretty sure that’s baked in to its DNA since it is, after all, a Banyan tree.  Regardless, you can tame yours with some infrequent, light pruning or you can let it do its thing and go “jungle” on you.  For the tame side, make pruning cuts to stems/branches that may be heading in the wrong direction and force new growth from the nodes.  Although this demonstration is with an (old) Fiddle Leaf Fig, it does get to the point on how best to prune any of the Ficus species from PLANTZ – Ficus pruning.

Bugs

Nary a worry here – Audrey’s not a big target for pests.  Scale, mealy bugs, and mites sometimes jump on, but they’re easily controlled by wiping the infested area with a soapy solution.  It can take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.  As always though, a regular cleaning/wiping regimen is best to keep any pests from taking up residence on your plant in the first place.

Trouble

Here are a few warning signs that your Ficus is getting ‘the funk’:

  • Leaf drop – If the lower leaves start to droop and then drop, it’s either :
    1. not getting enough light
    2. it’s getting too much water or
    3. (you guessed it), it’s not getting enough water

    Or…if you moved it from one light extreme to another, it could shed leaves.  The most likely issues (#’s 1, 2, and 3) are easily correctable.

  • Brown leaf margins – This is most likely from not enough light and under-watering.
  • Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This might be from too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The best part about any of the above is that they’re easily corrected.  The key, however, is recognizing the signs early and making the adjustment before too much damage occurs.And…Don’t forget the weekly twist to keep your Ficus evenly bathed in sunlight.

Warning

It has been reported that the sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses.  So, if you have a dog, cat, or horse, don’t let them ingest the sap.  It’s also been reported that the sap can cause allergic reactions for people too.  If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol; if it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes.  If none of this helps, call a doctor.

Fun Fact

As mentioned, the Ficus Audrey can develop aerial roots.  They can be tamed, but in its native habitat that’s how it forms ginormous canopies.  It can start out as an epiphyte, germinating from seed on the bark or branch crotch of another tree.  And that’s where it gets is most unusual name – the Strangler Fig.  After germinating, its roots attach to the host and then it puts out aerial roots eventually reach soil below.  Once it taps the soil, it can envelop and “strangle” the host plant out of existence using it for support while it develops even more roots.  Sometimes we have to ship the Audrey with a stake for support artificially simulating a “host”.

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Ficus Lyrata https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-lyrata-for-sale/ https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-lyrata-for-sale/#comments Wed, 07 Sep 2022 18:19:28 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-lyrata/ This plant is so trendy, it's called the "it" plant - and the "it" has nothing to do with technology and everything to do with style.  The ficus lyrata, also known as a Fiddle Leaf Fig is sought after for its big, violin-shaped (that's a fiddle down south) leaves and ability to take a prominent place in the décor of a big space.  Put it in a well-lit room and let it grow.

If you do not have a bright, sunny spot - on a patio or adjacent to an east, west, or (preferably) south window - please consider another plant from our low-light selections.  All Fiddle Leaf figs prefer bright light. 

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The Ficus Lyrata is a really great plant for beginners and experts alike, and designers will appreciate what it can do in a photo, as long as you are able to provide bright light. Here’s what you need to know if you’re getting a Ficus Lyrata:

Watering

This plant is a moderate to heavy drinker, and can go for 2+ weeks without watering with the proper sub-irrigation system, but we suggest you check it weekly during the first 6-8 weeks after you get it and during hot summer months.  See our watering guide for more information.

Light

Next to watering, having adequate light is the most significant factor keeping your Lyrata happy inside.  Your best placement is near a window where the plant can get some sun light – east-, south- and west-facing windows are best.  It can also thrive in a room with strong ambient light.  If you want a good, sustainable indoor plant and don’t have good light, this is not the plant for you – unless you’re up for moving it for frequent trips to better lit areas.

Nutrition

The Ficus Lyrata likely will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped.  During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production.  After 12 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants.  If your Lyrata is positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner than 12 months.  Keep an eye on the newer leaves – not the emerging ones; if the new leaves are yellow and the veins prevalent, it is possible it needs some nutrients.  Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

Here’s one of the greatest benefits of this plant – its large leaves are easy to clean and, overall, there are fewer leaves than many other interior plants.  Simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick.  For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth; then wipe.

Pruning

Many Fiddle Leaf Fig fans love to let this plant grow in all sorts of funky shapes.  If that’s not your style, and you want to maintain the plant’s height and girth, pruning cuts can be made just above any node (aka – right about a where a leaf attaches to a stem).  This will reduce the size of the plant and promote new growth from the point where the cut was made.  You can also trim or snap off leaves that have run their course.

Bugs

Here’s another plus, this plant is not a big target for pests.  Scale, mealy bugs, and mites sometimes jump on, but they’re easily controlled by wiping the infested area with a soapy solution.  It can take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.

Trouble

Here are a few warning signs that your Ficus Lyrata is getting the funk:

  • Leaf drop – If the lower leaves start to droop and then drop, it’s either :
    1. not getting enough light
    2. it’s getting too much water or
    3. (you guessed it), it’s not getting enough water

    Or…if you moved it from one light extreme to another, it could shed leaves.  The most likely issues (#’s 1, 2, and 3) are easily correctable.

  • Brown leaf margins – This is most likely from not enough light and under-watering.
  • Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This might be from too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The best part about any of the above is that they’re easily corrected.  The key, however, is recognizing the signs early and making the adjustment before too much damage occurs.

Warning

It has been reported that the sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses.  So, if you have a dog, cat, or horse, don’t let them ingest the sap.  It’s also been reported that the sap can cause allergic reactions for people too.  If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol; if it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes.  If none of this helps, call a doctor.

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Ficus Microcarpa https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-microcarpa/ https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-microcarpa/#comments Wed, 07 Sep 2022 13:37:06 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=12840 Ficus Microcarpa aka Ficus Moclame aka Ficus Daniella- No matter what you call it, this is another great Ficus plant and, if you get one, it's sure to make your Fiddle-Leaf-Fig-owning friends a little green with envy. Like its brother, the Ficus lyrata, this Ficus plant needs lots of light too - so plan on putting it in an east-, west-, or south-facing window.  It's also great on a patio, porch, or lanai that gets a good shot of sun and many customers in northern climates use it outside in the warmth of the spring, summer, and fall.

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With lots of light, and an occasional rotation, it’ll drink a good bit of water too, so we recommend our PlantAssure sub-irrigation system with the Ficus microcarpa.  With good light and the right watering regimen, it’s sure to keep going and growing for you. The Ficus microcarpa is another gem from the Ficus family – Moraceae.   Give it good light, the right amount of water and a “twist” and it’s sure to bring plenty of plant pleasure:

Watering

This plant is a moderate to heavy drinker, and can go for 2+ weeks without watering with the proper sub-irrigation system, but we suggest you check it with a soil probe weekly during the first 6-8 weeks after you get it and during hot summer months.  See our watering guide for more information.

Light

Next to watering, having adequate light is the most significant factor keeping your Ficus happy inside and out.  Your best placement is near a window where the plant can get some sun light – east-, south-, and west-facing windows are best.  It can also thrive in a room with strong ambient light.  If you want a good, sustainable indoor plant and don’t have good light, this is not the plant for you – unless you’re up for moving it for frequent trips to better lit areas.  And, if you get it situated near a window, give your Ficus a quarter turn (aka “twist”) once a week – this will help let light penetrate from different angles and minimize the inevitable leaf drop from inside the plant’s canopy.

Nutrition

This Ficus likely will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped.  During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production.  After 12 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants.  If your Ficus is positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner than 12 months.  Keep an eye on the newer leaves – not the emerging ones; if the new leaves are yellow and the veins prevalent, it is possible it needs some nutrients.  Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

Well, the Ficus microcarpa has a lot of small leaves but don’t be deterred.  Simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick.  For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth; then wipe.

Pruning

Most proud Ficus Moclome owners prefer to keep their plant with a nice, tight canopy in a “ball” form.  This is great if you have enough light to push out good new growth.  In this case, simply prune off branches/stems that are causing non-uniform growth to maintain the shape of the canopy making sure  pruning cuts are made just above any node (aka – right about a where a leaf attaches to a stem).  This will reduce the size of the plant and promote new growth from the point where the cut was made.

Bugs

Here’s another plus, this plant is not a big target for pests.  Scale, mealy bugs, and mites sometimes jump on, but they’re easily controlled by wiping the infested area with a soapy solution.  It can take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.

Trouble

Here are a few warning signs that your Ficus is getting ‘the funk’:

  • Leaf drop – If the lower leaves start to droop and then drop, it’s either :
    1. not getting enough light
    2. it’s getting too much water or
    3. (you guessed it), it’s not getting enough water

    Or…if you moved it from one light extreme to another, it could shed leaves.  The most likely issues (#’s 1, 2, and 3) are easily correctable.

  • Brown leaf margins – This is most likely from not enough light and under-watering.
  • Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This might be from too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The best part about any of the above is that they’re easily corrected.  The key, however, is recognizing the signs early and making the adjustment before too much damage occurs.And…Don’t forget the weekly twist to keep your Ficus evenly bathed in sunlight.

Warning

It has been reported that the sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses.  So, if you have a dog, cat, or horse, don’t let them ingest the sap.  It’s also been reported that the sap can cause allergic reactions for people too.  If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol; if it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes.  If none of this helps, call a doctor.

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Dracaena Elegance Cane https://www.plantz.com/product/dracaena-elegance-cane/ https://www.plantz.com/product/dracaena-elegance-cane/#comments Mon, 23 May 2022 18:43:14 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=64694 Well, the name says it...Elegance.  And if you're looking for an elegant plant in a tight corner with limited light, let us box one of these beauties up for you. Our Dracaena Elegance Cane comes in a 10″ grow pot that will stand about 4.5 – 5.5′ (grow pot + plant).  The Gold Dust Phoenix Square planter and FiberEx moss are sold separately.

 

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Like her cousins Janet Craig and the Lisa Cane, the Dracaena Elegance Cane is a native of Africa and is another versatile member of the Dracaena genus (Dracaena deremensis, to be specific).  In fact, her genes are almost identical to the Lisa Cane, but the Elegance Cane is grown in traditional soil, where the Lisa is a product of Hawaii and grown in lava rock.  Both can thrive inside with very little care and can be sustained in the lowest of indoor light. As a member of the fuss-free family of Dracaena plants and has enjoys the exact same maintenance regime of its siblings – like Janet Craig Limelight and the Janet Craig Carmen.  It will survive in low light, but thrives in moderate- and high-light spaces.  If you can get it in good light, you can get it and (nearly) forget it.

Watering

Like other members of the Dracaena family, it prefers its root zone on the dry side; so make sure the soil dries out between waterings.   See our watering guide for more information.

Light

It’s  a Dracaena, with large green leaves for capturing the slightest bit of light, and likely our most low-light plant offering.  It will, however, do better and last longer with at least moderate light.  Like other shade-grown foliage plants, do not expose this plant to direct sunlight or it will burn the leaves very quickly.

Nutrition

The Elegance Cane will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped. During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production. After 6 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants. Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

This plant, with its long, strap-like leaves, is easy to clean – that that’s a good thing since those large leaves tend to attract some dust.  Simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick. For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth; then wipe. This will restore the luster to your plant.

Pruning

Don’t. Unless your plant is not meeting the dimensions of its intended space, you will not need to prune this plant. Older leaves, though, may yellow, and they can be pruned or snapped off. Brown tips can be trimmed off to the contour of the leaf. See our pruning guide for details.

Bugs

The biggest threat for this plant is Mealybugs and they can be pesky – so, keep it clean.  Look for the little white cottony bugs at the base of the leaves.  If you see them, break out the spray bottle with a light soap solution and spray them daily ’til they’re gone.

Trouble

Aside from the mealybug threat, minor leaf spots and old age will be your biggest worry with the Janet Craig.

  • Leaf spots – Spots on the leaves may be a natural imperfection from production. If you get a few leaf spots, don’t sweat it – it’s Mother Nature’s way of letting you know it’s a real, live plant. Over time, leaf spots, especially on the margins, can develop from a build-up of fluoride in the leaves from water sources treated with fluoride – like almost everywhere that water comes from a treatment plant. If you can water with rain water from your garden, have at it; otherwise, be on the lookout for discolored margins over a very long period of time.  When older leaves become unsightly, just remove them.
  • Yellow and brown leaves – Old leaves may turn yellow and begin to brown. These should be removed.

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Fishtail Palm https://www.plantz.com/product/fishtail/ https://www.plantz.com/product/fishtail/#comments Sun, 27 Jun 2021 15:51:04 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=59641 We're pretty sure that if Guy Harvey has a plant in his art studio, it's a Fishtail Palm - and it's probably a "keeper".  This unique palm, named for its oddly shaped serrated leaflets that resemble the tails and dorsal fins of saltwater gamefish, is actually the Caryota mitis and a member of the Arecaceae family of palms.  While it's native to southeast Asia and India, it's widely used as a screening plant in outdoor landscapes in the South.  Our Fishtail, however, are shade grown for display indoors but it still needs bright light to thrive so make sure you've got a good spot for it next to a window with good light flowing through it.  So, if you're looking for an interesting plant for a bright spot, toss your line in the water and hook one of these beauties.

 

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Have a fishing enthusiast in your home or office?  Well, this could be a perfect fit – it’s our Fishtail Palm, and it’s sure to hook some interest.  Here are some helpful hints for your Fishtail Palm to deliver good luck for years to come:

Watering

With pun intended, this one drinks like a fish!  It should be watered thoroughly, around the entire soil surface, and watered again when the soil gets dry.  We’ll add further that, if left to dry-down too much, the lead (apical) buds on the stems can be lost pretty quickly; so, do NOT let it dry down completely – this could kill any luck for your very valuable palm.  Make sure you check it weekly during the first 8 weeks after you get it.  See our watering guide for more information.

Light

Compared with other palms in our collection – Bamboo Palm, Lady Palm, and the like – it requires the most light.  So make sure it’s adjacent to a east-, west-, or south-facing window where sunlight will penetrate for several hours each day.

Nutrition

Like other plants right out of nursery production, you won’t need to feed this palm for at least 6 months after you get it.  That’s because there is residual nutrients in the soil from when the palm was being propagated.  After 6 months, it can be fed regularly with a complete fertilizer like our Foliage Pro liquid plant food.  Please refer to our plant nutrition guide for details.

Cleaning

A occasional wipe down with a damp cloth will keep your Fishtail looking good. However, a big palm with multiple stems and plentiful leaves can be a challenge to clean.  While we still prefer a cleaning regimen with water and a light soap solution, it would be okay to break out the feather duster on this plant.  Make sure your feather duster is clean though – it’s a primary way to get bugs from one plant to another.  For a deep cleaning, let the soil dry down and pop it in the shower – spray it down with a light soap solution and rinse it off.  Your Fishtail will love you for it.

Pruning

The older leaves on the Fishtail Palm may turn yellow and brown.  No sweat…just prune off the leaf (frond) as close to the stem as possible.  Remember, like many palms, the Fishtail is bipinnate and its leaves connect with the stem – they’re called fronds – and have leaflets (the parts that look like a fish tail).  Usually pruning requires that you remove the entire leaf, and not individual leaflets.

Bugs

Fishtail Palms can get scale and Mealy Bugs – they’re easy to control if you spot them.  Just use a mild soapy solution and add some rubbing alcohol to the mix and wipe it down.  Be on the lookout, too, for spider mites; which are a little more difficult to spot.  They are nearly microscopic spiders that suck sap from the underside of the leaves.  Look for discoloration on the top of the leaves and webbing under the leaves.  Once spotted, start wiping with the soap and rubbing alcohol solution weekly until they’re gone.  As noted in the “cleaning” section above, a nice shower and thorough rinsing can help alleviate spider mites too.

Trouble

Give it a lot of light, keep the soil moist, watch out for spider mites, and your Fishtail Palm will catch lots of attention.

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Ficus Alii https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-alii/ https://www.plantz.com/product/ficus-alii/#comments Tue, 08 Sep 2020 14:29:09 +0000 https://www.plantz.com/?post_type=product&p=56294 The king of Ficus? That's what its name suggests - in ancient Hawaii, "allii" is a chief or king.  And somewhere along the way a botanist (or green-thumbed salesperson) figured out the Ficus Alii (Ficus maclellandii) had awesome characteristics that make it a very popular houseplant.  And indeed it does - its elongated olive-colored leaves adapt well inside in moderate to high light.  Also known as the banana leaf ficus and banana leaf fig, this guy is a great summertime companion on an outdoor patio or porch in northern climates and can thrive year-round on southern patios and indoors - just don't expose it to temps below 50° for too long.  Like its Ficus cousins with strong roots, it'll drink a good bit of water, so we recommend our PlantAssure sub-irrigation system and a soil probe to accompany this one.

This is a Ficus Alii in a 'standard' tree form in a 14" grow pot. Its overall height (grow pot + plant) will be 4.5 - 5.5'. The decorative planter and Fiberex American Moss are sold separately.

 

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The Ficus Alii is another great indoor performer from the Ficus family – Moraceae.   With good light and the right watering regimen, it’s sure to bring plenty of plant pleasure:

Watering

This plant is a moderate drinker, and can go for 2+ weeks without watering with the proper sub-irrigation system, but we suggest you probe the soil weekly for the first month and during hot summer months.  See our watering-for-success guide for more information.

Light

Next to watering, having adequate light is the most significant factor keeping your Ficus happy inside and out.  Your best placement is a window where the plant can get some sun light – east-, south-, and west-facing windows are best.  It can also thrive in a room with strong ambient light.  If you want a good, sustainable indoor plant and don’t have good light, this is not the plant for you – unless you’re up for moving it for frequent trips to better lit areas.  And, if you get it situated near a window, give your Ficus a quarter turn (aka “twist”) once a week – this will help let light penetrate from different angles and minimize the inevitable leaf drop from inside the plant’s canopy.

Nutrition

This Ficus likely will not need to be fed during the first 6 months after it has shipped.  During this time, it will use the residual nutrients from nursery production.  After 12 months, it can be fed quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants – check out our nutrition products from Dyna-Gro.  If your Ficus is positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner than 12 months.  Keep an eye on the newer leaves – not the emerging ones; if the new leaves are yellow and the veins prevalent, it is possible it needs some nutrients.  Please refer to our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

Well, the Ficus Alii’s leaves are somewhat smaller than its cousin, the Fiddle Leaf Fig, but bigger than the Daniella making it relatively easy to clean.  Simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick.  For spots where something else (besides dust) has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth – the wipe, stroking the leaf away from the stem (and pulling on it lightly).

Pruning

The Banana Leaf Fig has a somewhat more open canopy and its habit is slightly weeping whereby the leaves will point to the ground.  If it weeps too much, stems can be pruned off to lighten the load and bring a branch and the whole canopy more upright – but if you like more weeping, leave it alone and let it grow.  Whenever you make pruning cuts, make sure  cuts are made just above any node (aka – right about a where a leaf attaches to a stem).  Regardless of your pruning purpose, this will reduce the size of the plant and promote new growth from the point where the cut was made.

Bugs

Here’s another plus, this plant is not a big target for pests.  Scale, mealy bugs, and mites sometimes jump on, but they’re easily controlled by wiping the infested area with a soapy solution.  It can take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.  As always though, a regular cleaning/wiping regimen is best to keep any pests from taking up residence on your plant in the first place.

Trouble

Here are a few warning signs that your Ficus is getting ‘the funk’:

  • Leaf drop – If the lower leaves start to droop and then drop, it’s either :
    1. not getting enough light
    2. it’s getting too much water or
    3. (you guessed it), it’s not getting enough water

    Or…if you moved it from one light extreme to another, it could shed leaves.  The most likely issues (#’s 1, 2, and 3) are easily correctable.

  • Brown leaf margins – This is most likely from not enough light and under-watering.
  • Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This might be from too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The best part about any of the above is that they’re easily corrected.  The key, however, is recognizing the signs early and making the adjustment before too much damage occurs.

And…

Don’t forget the weekly twist to keep your Ficus evenly bathed in sunlight.

Warning

It has been reported that the sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses.  So, if you have a dog, cat, or horse, don’t let them ingest the sap.  It’s also been reported that the sap can cause allergic reactions for people too.  If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol; if it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes.  If none of this helps, call a doctor.

 

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