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SPEC Amongst the smallest of the ornamental fig family is Ficus pumila, the creeping fig, a small, much branched plant which makes a dense carpet of foliage, suitable for "ground cover", climbing up moss sticks, and for hanging baskets. 'White Sunny' has charming white edged leaves.
POSITION These appreciate a shady position, and should be kept out of direct sunlight. They are more tolerant of low winter temperatures than most ficus.
CARE These can be more difficult than their larger relatives as they need evenly moist compost and moist air. The thin leaves will quickly shrivel if they are allowed to dry out. Water regularly with tepid water, giving less in winter and mist the leaves occasionally. Remove any leaves that revert to plain green. In warm rooms, watch out for red spider mite.
SPEC The versatile ivies look just as good in hanging basket, as they do as climbers or ground cover. With variegated forms such as this, you get a splash of colour too. Put several plants in one container for a bushier effect.
POSITION Although they are tolerant of shade it is better to keep ivies in bright conditions in winter. This will prevent spindly growth and the loss of their bright variegation. A room that is unheated at night is ideal, as night temperatures above 16°C (60°F) can result in dry, brown leaves.
CARE Ivies have a reputation for being easy, but in the house they need extra attention as they can suffer in warm, centrally-heated rooms. Mist leaves occasionally to avoid brown leaf tips and water sparingly in winter but don't allow the compost to dry out completely. |
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