Can I train a Ficus to grow straight?

[AlboDean]

Hi all,

I’ve recently bought a Ficus that is on a bit of a slant (it was the only one left). Is there any way I can train it to grow straight and not be on a slant?

Very sorry if this is an idiotic question!

I’ve attached a pic so you can see what I mean.

Thanks,

Alex

 

[Shibui]

Yes.
Either push it upright if the roots will permit. You may need to tie it somehow while it adjusts to the change. Tie to the side of the pot/ push a stick into the right side and tie trunk to it/ other????
OR. Repot so the trunk is upright.
This is also not difficult. Slip the whole rootball out of the pot. Add some potting mix to the left side. Place the tree back into the pot so that the trunk is vertical. scrape off the mound of soil on left side. Job done.

 

[AlboDean]

P

Yes.
Either push it upright if the roots will permit. You may need to tie it somehow while it adjusts to the change. Tie to the side of the pot/ push a stick into the right side and tie trunk to it/ other????
OR. Repot so the trunk is upright.
This is also not difficult. Slip the whole rootball out of the pot. Add some potting mix to the left side. Place the tree back into the pot so that the trunk is vertical. scrape off the mound of soil on left side. Job done.

Perfect, thank you.

Roughly how long would it take for the tree to be firm in the new position if I use your first technique?

Cheers,

Alex

 

[Forrestford]

P

Perfect, thank you.

Roughly how long would it take for the tree to be firm in the new position if I use your first technique?

Cheers,

Alex

I seldom use wire on my ficus, within a month its firm in the pot as long as your not yanking on it. You can always put some bigger rocks on top of the soil around the base of the tree to keep it from falling over. But if its inside you don't have to worry about wind or squirrels knocking it over.

 

[WesB]

Straight is in