Pros And Cons Of Landscaping With Ficus
You may be familiar with a variety of small shrubs called "ficus," or "fig" trees, but those words actually describe a wide range of plants from southwest Asia and the Mediterranean In some parts of the country, such as California and in the southern United States, ficus trees, especially the benjamina and microcarpa varieties, are often planted in landscapes. There are many benefits if you decide to choose this type of tree for your landscaping, but there are some drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of the common ficus trees available for landscaping.
Pros
Commercially available ficus trees have several advantages that make them ideal for many landscaping applications.
They grow tall
Some ficus species, such as benjamina can grow several stories high without a lot of work. If you like or feel that your property needs a tall tree, the ficus may be a good choice for you. Be aware that compared to other trees, ficus are known for their fast growth if you provide the right conditions.
They are easy to care for
It doesn't take a whole lot to get this plant to grow, mostly water and direct sunshine. However, they do benefit from being fertilizer. Pruning the tree may not be as easy as other trees due to their dense foliage, but is necessary to prevent overgrowth problems.
Cons
Ficus trees do have their problems and their planting needs to be planned carefully to avoid damage to your home or garden.
They grow densely
Be aware that ficus canopies can get very thick and dense and sometimes grow out of control. While this may be a good thing when it comes to shade, it can become a nuisance. It's important to have the canopy trimmed properly to keep the tree under control.
They have extensive root systems
One common complaint about most types of ficus trees is that their roots get into everything. They are sometimes so extensive they can grow well into your neighbor's yard and even into the plumbing. When planting, be sure to have a root barrier surrounding the tree. Also, plant your tree away from your home, walkway or road.
Ficus trees are a beautiful addition to your landscaping as long as you understand and prepare for some of their quirks. They grow fast and provide a beautiful canopy and shade that is pleasing to the eye as well as practical. If you have an outdoor ficus tree that you feel needs a little work, or you wish to add them to your yard, then contact a landscaping company, like Greatland Tree Service, that specializes in trees to see if ficus, or some other type of tree, is right for you.
