Ficus Lyrata - how to make the trunk woody

8 years ago

Hi,

I have purchased a lyrata which seats in a 21cm pot. The height of the trunk is about 70cm. What do I have to do to make the trunk woody. How long does it take for the trunk to become woody and thicker?

Do I have to cut it back?

If I notch it to get a branches or two, does it slow the trunk becoming woody.

Hopefully, somebody will come back to me.

Any advice for UK climate for this ficus would be welcome.

I have to say, I really like that plant and I am thinking buying another one for the sitting room. Sadly, I dod not want to spend a vast amount of money on it. I might have to be patient.

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Comments (4)

Jean
8 years ago
Woody stems normally come from age. Woody stems on some young plants may follow stress.

Show us what you are concerned about.
francoise bencke
Original Author
8 years ago
Hi Jean,

thank you for your response. I am not concerned. I am new to Ficus Lyrata. May I ask a question? Shall I wait for pruning/pinching once the trunk is woody or not? If yes, Shall I do this in May? My Lyrata is about 110m which would be a good height to start branching and work in my space. However, I do not want to damage it. Thanks
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ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
8 years ago
its a tree .. and trees mature in tree time .... which is usually years or decades ... and imo ... there is nothing you can do to speed up maturity ...

so.. even though it is a common houseplant ... you will have to think about it in tree time ...

if you want pruning ideas... it is imperative that you post a pic or 2 ... use the camera icon below the box you type in... to add them to your replies ...

proper pruning is never a problem ... e.g. topiary .... or pruning for a certain effect ...

but again.. its hard to help you without a pic ...

ken
francoise bencke
Original Author
8 years ago
Hi Ken, thank you for taking the time to respond to me. Here is my tree. We live in England and it is the reason why it is by the window.
I have also noticed some brown under a few leaves. I am worried. I have attached two pics.
I just want to make it bushier and I think it is a great of size.

Looking forward to hearing from you.
F