Binomial name: Ficus religiosa
Family: Moraceae
Characteristics: Also known as the sacred fig, Ficus religiosa is a species of fig plant and one of the most popular choices for indoor bonsai trees.
Seeds per packet: 80
Description: Seed can be sown throughout the year indoors in a mini glasshouse.
Planting medium: Seed raising mix (preferably organic).
Optimum germination temperature: 23°C.
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Place Fig seeds in some water and leave for 24 hours to help break seed dormancy.
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Fill a small pot with a mix of roughly 50% seed raising mix, 25% vermiculite and 25% sand. Sow each seed in the centre of a small pot or 2 inches apart if using a tray and cover lightly with sand. Cover pot/s or tray with plastic wrap or glass to keep in moisture and humidity (open a corner to allow air circulation once sprouting begins and remove a little more each day until removed completely). Use a mist spray to moisten so seed is not disturbed and to avoid over wetting the medium.
- Leave in a warm, sunny location if temperatures are ideal (23°C) if not a heat mat may be necessary. Seeds can germinate as early as 2-3 weeks but average more often around 10-12 weeks so if some sprout early; don't give up on the others!
- Seeds can be transplanted carefully once at least 2 true leaves are present. Keep in a small-medium pot until after first winter so plant can be moved to avoid frost. Transplant to final position after last frost. Once established, will survive some cold if mulched well at the base. Additional water advised when fruiting. Fig Trees usually take between 3-6 years to fully mature.