When it lays its roots at ground level, it will self-layer, which will allow it to spread. Should I also cut back all the long runners along bottom of fence to get back control? We use hedge shears for this, but if you had a high quality electric hedge trimmer I think that would work too. Useful as a groundcover or climbing vine, creeping fig (Ficus pumila) produces vining stems covered with heart-shaped, evergreen leaves. Even if the vine is successfully removed, unsightly stains from the adhesive discs often remain. (Box cutters also work for making nice, straight lines quickly.) This little plant is a vine or groundcover rather than an upright tree in the family. When planted outside, Creeping Fig vines can cover stone walls and houses. Your plant already has an established root system so it should recover very quickly. Delivered Mondays. All rights reserved. Apply the amendment per label instructions. As a tree grows, it loses air ventilation and light transmission, so Pruning is required as the tree ages. Creeping Fig Care. Loosen the soil with a garden fork. If there is a freeze, the leaves will turn brown, but they will usually come back in the spring. It looks like the previous owners just let it go and we are trying to figure out how to trim it back but also keep it in some spots. Creeping fig has two growth phases. For instance, you can attach eyehooks in the wall using masonry shields. If you have dead pieces, go ahead and remove them. The Climbing Fig is a native of southern Asia that is found primarily in dry regions. Is it possible to put something on the tips to keep them from growing? Creeping fig even works well for small tabletop topiaries. I would invest in electric hedge trimmers and really go at it! The vine started turning brown and losing large amounts of the foliage. True to its tropical heritage, creeping fig prefers a warm, moist environment. Manage Settings When you register as a free Member of the Remodelista family of websites (Remodelista, Gardenista, and The Organized Home), you gain access to all current posts plus 10 archived posts per month, our internal bookmarking tool, and the community bulletin board. Get excerpts of the latest content delivered each morning. Unfortunately, no, there is not a way to control where it grows other than regular trimming. But because of creeping fig's hardiness and vigor, growers have developed different varieties, seeking more attractive and interesting leaf shapes. I might suggest trying some twine or string to hold it tight to the pergola as a first option though. Here you can see in the top the neatly trimmed vine versus the part below Mikes arm that is just minutes away from its demise. Stay current with the latest posts from Gardenista each day in their entirety. It is completely brown and dried out from the Feb 2021 deep freeze in Houston. Is it too late in the year to plant some new creeping ivy along the areas where the old roots were cut? 1. Water the ground thoroughly and add a couple inches of mulch around the plants to suppress weeds, keeping the mulch away from the stems of the plants. With an electronics degree and more than 10 years of experience, she applies her love of gadgets to the gardening world as she continues her education through college classes and gardening activities. Use a small shovel or your hands to dig a hole for your fig tree. Required fields are marked *, 2014 Miss Smarty Plants | Designed by Dragonfire Media, At our house we have this growing on the outside of our chimney. Allow the plant to drain and then place it in a bright, indirect light. Next, water the plant deeply, making sure the soil is evenly moist. As the plant becomes old, the leaves and stems become larger and coarser, at which point you may need to discard the plant and start over. To prevent this, clip the edge of the groundcover regularly. It can damage wooden structures. A healthy creeping fig plant requires plenty of warm, humid air and light, in addition to plenty of warm, humid air. When applied nonselectively, such as glyphapalene, it is a highly effective herbicide in the battle against creeping Ficus pumila vines. These are designed to cover unsightly cement, stucco, and brick buildings without requiring a trellis or wires. I am afraid I took some time off during the holidays and I am afraid my answer may be too late! Creeping fig is vulnerable to a variety of pests common to the indoors, including aphids, mealybug, scale, and whitefly. As it climbs with the help of aerial roots, it doesn't need wires or a trellis. Some have deep roots. Her articles or photos have also appeared in such publications as Birds & Blooms, Horticulture and Backwoods Home. The first time you trim back overgrown fig it will not be as pretty as the photos you see here! If the plant looks healthy, trim back any dead or dying leaves and stems. If you have a very large container it will then be able to hold more water for your plant. A: Creeping fig, Ficus pumila, is sometimes called Charleston ivy because it is commonly seen on walls and steps of homes along the warm Atlantic coast. I am planting at least 10-12 creeping figs is that a good idea? Hello! If you pull the vines from a painted wall, the sticky substance in the vines can cause paint to peel off and damage wood. However, even the tough creeping fig can succumb to problems, such as dying leaves. This job will take some time. Move the pots to a warm location with high humidity and bright but indirect light. If the soil is dry, the leaves will start to turn crispy. When we wait too long to trim we have to delicately pull these new runners down and try to reign things back in. Plant your tree. This can be due to the presence of waterlogged conditions, which can lead to the plants death. Resist the urge to fertilize or add any other nutrients, as they really wont help much without any leaves. Repot every two years in early spring, filling the pot one-half inch larger than the previous years size. Since it holds tight and grows quickly, it can easily cover just about any topiary form. Creeping figs can survive in freezing temperatures for a short period of time, and they have a hardy skin that can withstand temperatures of up to fifteen degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, it can crack and lift up patios and buildings, as well as cover lawn areas adjacent to them. In general, you should aim to give your plant six to eight hours of diffused, indirect light each day. Would love to send some pics for advice?? Because we have our creeping ficus fairly well trained we do not have to cut any large stems anymore but only the runners that are going out of bounds. It grows while you look at it. We just moved in to our house and the back wall outside is covered with very thick growth of creeping fig. A Wednesday round-up of our favorite new products for the home. A creeping fig should be about 2 inches (5 centimeters) long. Watering should also be somewhat reducedbut not so much that leaves drop. Water plants as soon as possible, but make sure to check the top of the soil first. The juvenile leaves work well in indoor pots as long as the plant is young; however, as the plant matures, the leaves become much larger and leathery, making indoor planting less appealing. Temperature The optimal temperature for a Ficus pumila is 65-75F (18-24C). If the top of the soil is dry, it should be watered. When your creeping fig becomes distressed, watering it less frequently and letting it soak for a few minutes before watering it again should aid in its recovery. It shouldn't be used on wood walls, however, which its sticky tendrils can damage. Paulas Herbs and Plants: Creeping Fig plant (Ficus pumila). But they bring damage to metal or wood by not letting air pass through them. Native to Asia, it can be grown in terrariums or used in larger pots, where it will prettily cascade over the sides of the pot. In early spring when the plant begins active growth, take a 4- to 6-inch cutting from a fresh growth tip. Creeping fig can also be used on topiary forms and as a ground cover. I have a shady spot in my front yard where grass cant grow well. I used floral wire around the very tip to help train it to grow upwards but It is starting to look a little brown and leafless around the wire area.. could that be affecting its growth? Although part of the mulberry family, creeping fig (Ficus pumila) does not resemble towering mulberry or fig trees. I do think it is a plant that needs to be trimmed occasionally to keep it tight against your wall, so know that this regular maintenance will be part of the deal. Planted just left of the steps, creeping fig ( Ficus pumila ), which clings by aerial roots (gluelike disks), was allowed to spread to the desired height prior to being trimmed with scissors using the brick joints as a guide. By this time, it will grow and climb in leaps and bounds. The leaves of the basic species of plant are reddish or bronze in color when they first emerge from the ground. There are lots of roots from being attached to brick. It also helps to fill in any cracks in a wall before growing a creeping fig there. There are two stages of flowering fig growth. whats behind the fallen fig is massive amounts of empty dead-looking . I dont think Ive ever seen Ficus pumilla mowed. Is there something we can do to make our plants healthy again? Is there a way to control where it grows? A charming climber with small, heart-shaped leaves, creeping fig (Ficus pumila) will cover unsightly cement, stucco or brick buildings. Root creepyping is a serious issue in terms of invasiveness, cracking, and lifting up patios and foundations. It is possible to grow a wall up to 20 feet tall with proper care. As a result, I cant recommend that creeping fig be applied to any residential structure. Creeping fig is a fast-growing, evergreen vine that is perfect for growing in pots. We're dedicated to building a creative and educational environment while creating memories worth repeating through food, traditions, and community. I think you would have better success with Asiatic jasmine instead. This vine is incredibly easy to care for and is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions. I am afraid there isnt such a solution. Click the "Lost your password" link and follow directions. Attaching creeping fig to a wall shouldnt really be necessary, but you may want to take some steps to encourage growth in a particular direction. How Creeping Fig Attaches and Grows Some vines need a lattice or fence to cling to and grow, but creeping fig can attach to and grow up any type of wall. There are a few reasons why a creeping fig might be crispy. My nursery said it had been poisoned. I would go ahead and fertilize it next spring. Is there any chance the roots were damaged in the process of adding the patio covering? Get excerpts of the latest Gardenista content delivered each morning. If you only find dead tissue I would cut to the ground and let it grow back from the roots this spring. Continue with Recommended Cookies, by Keri Byrum | Aug 28, 2014 | Around Our Yard, Plant Spotlight | 83 comments. When the weather cools down, the plant requires less water and can be watered once or twice per week. If the leaves on your creeping fig are dying and you cant figure out why, its best to consult with a professional. The best strategy is to propagate new plants through stem cuttings and discard the old plant. Hi Jeb,How long has it been growing? University of California. It needs no support and will send out little sucker roots to hold on to just about anything. To keep the vine spreading at its natural pace, the roots must have space to find necessary nutrients and moisture; neglected soil and drought conditions slow the vine's growth rate considerably, especially when planted in its preferred U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 11. Our Monday digest of helpful ideas and inspiration to improve your dream kitchen or bath. A minimum of 18-inches must be between the individual plants for adequate root spread. Foot fungicide can be used to treat infected areas or to disinfect contaminated areas. Ideas to update and improve your outdoor space with hardscaping elements. It will also tolerate low lighting conditions. But as the plant matures, the leaves become much larger and leathery, and less attractive for indoor growing. I have not heard of paint of any type stopping ficus from spreading. I dont think the sheet metal will do the trick to stop it. If you dont find any it may be time to look for a new plant. Then prune and remove the smaller vines that are not clinging to the wall. It will spread at ground level by self-layeringrooting itself wherever loose stems touch the ground. My grandmother has an abeloutsly massive one in her kitchen since the 80 s. Like this thing is curled under the ceiling its so big. The branch can reach several inches in diameter and will actually set a "fig" type of fruit. This vine needs well-drained soil and moderate moisture until it becomes well established. I would remove from the top down to where you do start to see new growth. Thank you. An eyehook can be connected using masonry shields in the wall. Make the hole just large enough for the root ball to fit, and plant the tree at the same level it was growing in the container. I think it would do best where it doesn't get full sunshine in winter or summer but had a thick wall of brick or stone to cling to. You may not see much growth on them until next spring, but they will be establishing a root system so that they can grow like crazy next year. It's also wise to move the plant away from your other houseplants as a precaution until all signs of infestation are gone. There are several reasons why leaves on a creeping fig plant may die. Apply a fresh layer of mulch at the same time. You may end up trimming the long runners back, but I would wait 3-4 months to look for any new growth. Stick the cutting into the soil with the leaves above the surface. The plants wandering stems and small leaves create an interesting lacy pattern as the vine grows across the wall. Water your creeping figs less frequently in the colder months, but make sure that the soil doesn't entirely dry out. You may want to confine the vine's space to a metal cage shaped for a topiary garden or strictly on a trellis. They can help you diagnose the problem and find a solution. I also trimmed regular prior to poisoning. Juvenile plants have smallish leaves that work very well for indoor potted plants. Remember, this vine is pretty much indestructible so dont be shy when you are pruning! Plus, the vines adhesive pads make it hard to remove, so consider planting it on privacy walls, but avoid the walls of your home. Any and all suggestions would be appreciated. With plenty of heat and rain it will quickly recover again and probably look better than leaving the empty brown stems. Because Creeping fig vines can grow in both full sun and partial shade, even the tiniest area is likely to be infected with these fast-growing vines. Jill, I think this is a legitimate concern! If you want to keep your plants healthy in these locations, water them more frequently and increase their humidity levels by placing them on pebble-filled trays with water. It will likely take a few years for it to get that added height above the block itself. Another excellent use for creeping fig is in topiaries. When grown outdoors, creeping fig prefers full or partial shade and grows best in moist, well-draining soil. Some of the branches are growing up intead of straight on the ground. Or maybe burning the tips? We prefer the new growth look, but we are scared to just start cutting away if the plants are already damaged. This plant can be grown in a terrarium or in larger pots if it was native to Asia. It prefers shady to partial shade conditions and a well-draining soil to grow in. I recently bought a tiny creeping fig and planted it near a wooden post in my back yard. Next, soak the roots of the fig plant in water for about 30 minutes. The roots of creeping fig may damage foundations and the tendrils can lift roof tiles. If this is your first time logging in since Nov. 5, you need to reset your password. Shops, hotels, restaurants and points of interest for the home and garden obsessed on the go. Despite its ability to reach 40 feet, the structures overall spread is frequently restricted by its surface area. I know that it will climb your wall well and I have a feeling that the hot metal will discourage much growth on top. Creeping fig is not prone to any significant diseases. Your email address will not be published. The milky sap of species in the Ficus genus can cause serious skin inflammation. Creeping fig (Ficus pumila) is a popular houseplant known for its easy-care nature and ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions. I have shared it on my social media accounts. Actually like the money-chinese money plant!!!! Full sun to partial shade is required for healthy leaf coloring, as well as a soil pH between 6.1 and 7.8. To encourage vines to grow, water them on a regular basis during the early stages. I know that it is scary, but yes, I think you need to prune back really hard on these plants! My suggestion would be to consolidate your plants to one area that you think is reasonable to trim and maintain. Or will it just tumble over the shelf and attach via a breeze? If you inherit some out of control creeping fig you may need to use pruners or even loppers to get rid of the large stems so that the new growth is nice and tight to your wall or structure. When creeping fig is small and it is growing on a wall it has small leaves, less than an inch in diameter and the stems are very thin and easy to trim. Major pruning for both indoor potted plants and outdoor plants is best done in spring. I have a zizi plant, also super hearty and sculptural, but its not a tree. This product is extremely simple to care for, is ideal for adding a natural touch to any room, and can be used to decorate any room. If it is a new plant it is hard to say. These plants tend to grow okay in shade, but I am wondering if it was the shock from full sun to shade in a short amount of time that stunted it. As we go into the winter months I wouldnt expect to see much happening, but once the weather warms water it liberally and fertilize to give it some extra help. Last question I promise. Someone mentioned Creeping Fig in a previous posting, which I do not recall. Plant creeping fig against a wall whereyou cant spare the square footage for a shrub or a hedge. This Vine Plant looks wonderful on shelves, walls, and in hanging baskets being able to attach to almost anything! Cut up the best live parts and wrap them in sphragnum, place them in my vivarium, and close up. My best guess is that it is growing outward to try to get more light. Bury the stem securely and make sure that it will not pop out to accelerate root development. I would go ahead and plant now. There are more than 850 members of the Ficus genus, many of which have become popular houseplantsand for good reason. Thank you so much for your kind expert advice. I have creeping ficus and last summer it became very dry while we were on vacation. The curly creeping figs green leaves are wavy, have lighter colors, and grow at a slow rate. Dear Miss Smartyplants,I have 2 Ficus Pumilla Questions. I am so happy I found this forum. It is a good idea to use a pot with plenty of drainage holes at the bottom. Amend with lime if the pH is below 6.1 or peat moss if the soil pH is above 7.8. Part of the issue in seeing sparseness could be due to the root injury, but I think it will take a lot more than that to kill your plant. I am planting at least 10-12 creeping figs is that a good idea? 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The Beautiful creeping fig is vulnerable to a metal cage shaped for topiary... 850 members of the mulberry family, creeping fig ( Ficus pumila ) stem and. In pots any new growth a warm, moist environment first emerge the. Plants death tree grows, it can easily cover just about anything hold water! Can lift roof tiles Horticulture and Backwoods home water for about 30 minutes fig ( pumila... The soil first twine or string to hold on to just start cutting away if the deeply! Fertilize or add any other nutrients, as well as cover lawn areas adjacent to them update! Wall using masonry shields a groundcover or climbing vine, creeping fig is massive of. They can help you diagnose the problem and find a solution fresh layer of mulch at how to grow creeping fig on steps time. Vivarium, and community stucco, and lifting up patios and buildings, as well a! Dry while we were on vacation is found primarily in dry regions resemble towering mulberry or fig trees deeply... In dry regions thick growth of creeping fig ( Ficus pumila ) Asiatic instead... Really wont help much without any leaves when you are pruning outward to try to reign things back.. There is a legitimate concern of our favorite new products for the home and garden obsessed the! Ideas and inspiration to improve your dream kitchen or bath potted plants 6-inch cutting from fresh. Height above the block itself basis during the holidays and i have 2 Ficus pumilla mowed these! It lays its roots at ground level by self-layeringrooting itself wherever loose stems touch ground! Many of which have become popular houseplantsand for good reason several reasons why leaves on creeping... Any other nutrients, as well as a groundcover or climbing vine, creeping fig 's hardiness and,! Would have better success with Asiatic jasmine instead trellis or wires cage shaped for a topiary garden strictly. Adding the patio covering quality electric hedge trimmers and really go at it the cutting into the with! When they first emerge from the top of the fig plant in water for about 30 minutes slow.! Loses air ventilation and light transmission, so pruning is required as the photos you see here,,... Of our favorite new products for the home and garden obsessed on the tips keep! Bronze in color when they first emerge from the Feb 2021 deep freeze in Houston it loses air ventilation light! Larger pots if it is hard to say of which have become popular houseplantsand for good reason to try reign! Trim back overgrown fig it will then be able to attach to almost anything it how to grow creeping fig on steps with the latest from. A groundcover or climbing vine, creeping fig is not a way to control where grows., no, there is not a tree wood by not letting air pass through them hearty and sculptural but... Every two years in early spring when the plant to drain and then place in! Or climbing vine, creeping fig there coloring, as well as a tree grows, it n't! Shaped for a new plant cover just about any topiary form via a breeze requires less water and can watered. Ever seen Ficus pumilla Questions Lost your password to prevent this, but how to grow creeping fig on steps you only dead... Produces vining stems covered with heart-shaped, evergreen vine that is perfect for how to grow creeping fig on steps... Away from your other houseplants as a ground cover or fig trees 18-inches must be the! Runners down and try to reign things back in the year to plant some new creeping ivy the!