Ficus Trunk Rot?

[Delius]

Hi,

I’ve had this Ficus Retusa for about 9 months, and in an effort to create more aerial roots I’ve kept it in a small greenhouse.

It’s working, but I think the bottom of the trunk is rotting now. Is this the case, and what should I do about it if it is?

I assume I should take it out of the greenhouse, but is there anything more I can do?

 

[Bonsai Nut]

I don't think your trunk is rotting now, but it looks like it had damage in the past. Note how the trunk is well-healed at the margins of the injury.

Rotting at the soil line is almost always a function of too much wetness at the soil line - which could be caused by over-watering, poor soil, not enough light - or a combination of all three. Put your tree in well-draining soil, do not over-water, and give it plenty of light, and most fungus issues are mitigated.

 

[Delius]

I don't think your trunk is rotting now, but it looks like it had damage in the past. Note how the trunk is well-healed at the margins of the injury.

Rotting at the soil line is almost always a function of too much wetness at the soil line - which could be caused by over-watering, poor soil, not enough light - or a combination of all three. Put your tree in well-draining soil, do not over-water, and give it plenty of light, and most fungus issues are mitigated.

Thanks for your reply!

On the side with the scar I agree it looks all right, the other side I’m less sure.

I’ll pay attention to the watering and I’ll try to get it a bit more light.