Fiddle leaf fig can be pruned, and cuttings are capable of growing
Question: I have a fiddle leaf fig tree that is lopsided and getting too big for the space. How I can prune it, and is it possible to start new plants from the portion I remove?
Yes you can prune your fiddle leaf fig. I prefer to prune late winter as the days lengthen and light intensity increases. Make cuts back to a shorter adjoining branch. You can also pinch out the tip of branches that do not need to be shortened to encourage more compact growth.
Root the removed stems in a welldrained potting mix or vermiculite. Shorter pieces with fewer leaves will lose less moisture and root more readily. Cut the stem to the desired length and remove the lowest leaf. You may want to use a rooting hormone to help increase rooting success. Stick the cut end into the moist rooting media. Loosely cover with a plastic bag to increase humidity and place in a bright location out of direct sunlight. In a couple weeks it should be rooted.
Move the rooted cutting into a container with potting mix if needed. Encourage more even growth on your indoor plants by regularly turning them so each side faces the light source at some time.
Q: I have a magnolia tree that has now lost its leaves and has branches with little fuzzy things on it like pussy willows. The tree needs to be pruned because its branches are leaning over my patio walkway. When should it be pruned.?
You can prune the offending branches now through early spring before growth begins. Pruning after the worst of winter allows you to manage any winter damage while shaping the plant as needed. Early spring pruning allows wounds to close quickly, and pruning right after flowering maximizes your spring flower display.
The fuzzy growths may be flower buds if they appear at the end of branches. Magnolia scale appears as white, somewhat fuzzy bumps along the stems. This insect sucks plant juices and can weaken the tree. Controlling this pest can be challenging. Horticulture oil or insecticidal soap can be used to treat the immature scale in late August or early September. Make a second application 10 to 14 days later. Or apply a dormant oil spray in March before the buds open.
Make sure it is magnolia scale and not the flower buds before treating. As always, read and follow label directions when using any natural, organic or synthetic chemical.
Q: I purchased a spike moss plant for the holidays. It is already starting
to dry. How can I save this plant?
Spike moss (Selaginella kraussiana) can be challenging. It requires moist, not soggy soil, high humidity and bright indirect light. Your plant grows in normal room temperature but does not tolerate hot or cold temperature extremes.
Browning can result from overly dry soil, low humidity or direct sunlight. Move the plant, adjust watering and boost the humidity as needed. Make sure water is not collecting in the foil wrap or decorative container the potted plant may be displayed in. Remove the foil or decorative container, if needed, and place the pot on a saucer filled with pebbles.
Allow excess water to collect in the gravel tray. As this water evaporates it increases the humidity around the plant. You can also place pebbles in the foil wrap or decorative basket to accomplish the same results. Growing this plant in a terrarium can also increase your success.
Post questions at melindamyers. com, or write P.O. Box 798, Mukwonago, WI 53149