Ficus trees are one of the most popular houseplants, but do they have deep roots? According to tree expert Tom De Cordova, ficus trees actually have shallow roots that spread out wide. This is good news for those of us who want to keep our ficus trees healthy and looking great, as it’s relatively easy to do. Keep reading to learn more about how to care for your ficus tree!
Does ficus have deep roots?
A common sight in many homes, Ficus is a type of indoor plant with glossy leaves, making it a popular choice for interior decor. But beyond its beauty, this plant offers much more; interestingly enough, the Ficus has some of the deepest roots among houseplants!
These substantial underground systems allow the Ficus to soak up vital nutrients from deep within the soil and process it accordingly to give oxygen back into its surroundings. Ultimately, these deep-rooted plants can make an otherwise dull space come alive with their beauty and their beneficial qualities.
Do ficus roots grow deep or wide?
The size of the root system in a ficus tree can vary greatly depending on numerous factors, such as the species and the soil composition. Generally, however, ficus trees have roots that are shallow surface feeders and lateral spreaders.
Though they do penetrate deeper than similarly sized plants with their large volume of feeder roots, they rarely grow to an impressive depth or width. This is something you must take into consideration if planting this type of tree near your house or other structures as the shallow roots may cause potential foundation damage or sidewalk cracking due to their expansive nature.
Are ficus roots shallow?
Ficus roots are incredibly diverse and can vary greatly based on the type of plant. Generally speaking, their roots get fairly deep and often spread wider than their canopy – however, some ficus varieties have very shallow root systems.
These are generally plants that have been cultivated for indoor use, or species that live in shady, moist conditions where soil layers may be thin and waterlogged, preventing them from digging too deeply into the ground. Regardless of what type of ficus tree it is, watering to the proper levels and protecting its root system from harm is essential for good health and development.
How do you control ficus roots?
Controlling ficus roots is a common challenge for indoor gardeners. To keep the root system of a ficus tree in check, gardeners can use a combination of regular container pruning and soil reinforcement. Pruning regularly will prevent vigorous root proliferation while incorporating strengthening materials such as gravel or coco coir into the soil mix will help to contain the roots within the planter’s boundaries.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the potting mix is able to hold sufficient water and to avoid over-watering—too much moisture can cause accelerated root growth. Offering your ficus enough light and paying careful attention to watering habits are also key components of effective root control. With maintenance and regular monitoring, controlling ficus roots indoors is possible.
Ficus tree root system diagram
A Ficus tree root system diagram shows how the shallow but expansive roots of this hardy species work to anchor firmly into the ground and draw up water and nutrients. The intricate network of roots often spreads far beyond the visible canopy, making them resilient enough to withstand the most challenging weather conditions.
Not only are the impressive roots effective for stabilizing the tree when faced with intense weather, but they also help maintain moisture in environments facing extended heat or drought. For those looking to add a hardy species of tree to their garden, Ficus trees may just be what you need.
Ficus tree root damage
Ficus trees can be a beautiful and vibrant addition to any landscape, but their aggressive root systems can cause unexpected damage. Ficus trees are known to spread roots up to several feet from the trunk in all directions, often entering sewer pipes or tearing through foundations.
If planted too close to buildings, the cost of repairing the damage can easily outweigh the benefits of adding this showy species. Fortunately, by careful planning and planting at least 10-20 feet away from structures, a healthy plant can safely be enjoyed for years to come.
The Bottom Line
Although ficus trees have deep roots, they are not the best choice for planting near homes. The roots of these trees can grow up to six feet long and three inches wide, which can damage your foundation. If you’re looking for a tree to plant near your home, consider one with shallow roots.
