What fig is this

[hawkeyes]

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Hi, just a little help needed.
1. Is this a Benjamina
2. Has been in this pot for years. (was given to me, as owner was selling her house)
3. The top as was cut off and left a horrible knob.
4. Obviously this tree will have to be air-layered, any hints please.

I can't imagine what the roots are like in the pot.

Any help please.

[Andrew Legg]

Yip. It's a Benjamina.

[NAHamilton]

Hi Hawkeyes,

These layer really easily so no hints needed in that department. From memory I separated mine after about 1 month.

I cut off a branch around 5cm diameter last August, stuck it in a pot of potting mix and that quickly. I'd probably almost recommend that rather than a layer since its easier.

Cheers,
Nigel

[shibui]

4. Obviously this tree will have to be air-layered, any hints please.

Sorry Hawkeyes but that's not 'obvious' to me. layering is just one of a number of possible treatments but if you are determined to limit your options please go right ahead.

[dansai]

One of the problems with Ficus benjamina is their unpredictability with back budding. I've cut some back hard and they have popped buds everywhere whereas others have sulked and pushed a bud or 2. I have 1 that like yours was an old potbound plant that is still yet to push any new buds.

So first advice, never cut beyond green.

I like Shibui don't see layering as your only option.

Another thing with figs is to work on them in the warmer weather. So what I would suggest is;

- Remove any excess shoots where there is more than one originating from the same place.
- Liquid feed and water a plenty until wether warms up.
- When warm, late spring, remove from pot. You may need to cut pot off if you can't get it out.
- Cut back hard all thick roots and trim skinnier ones.
- Pot into a large pot/foam box/oversized bonsai pot in very free draining mix
- Trim back foliage, not leaving any bare branches.
- Gouge out the knob you have pictured and scar the edges of the live tissue that is forming the room over around it and cut back any other stumps.
- Water and feed well.
- By late summer you can start considering styling options. Re post then if you want help regarding style direction.

[hawkeyes]

Thank you Andrew, Nigel, Shibui and Dansai for your help. Without you people,( these forums, which I consider the best) do not work. Will keep you posted later in the year on it's progress.