AusBonsai

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.

Yip. It's a Benjamina.

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

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.

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.

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.