Question
Hi,I have had this tree 28 yrs.never been transplanted.I have cut some branches because of its size it is now over8ft high.How and when can i trim it?It is spreading all over the place. It is getting to big for my living room can you please help me      Thank you  

Answer
Hi Norma,

Healthy ficus trees are wonderful to prune, once you overcome your initial hesitancy, because you really can't go wrong. They put out new growth soon enough that they quickly cover over any mistaken cuts. Just trust that the new growth will come in after you do your pruning. With experience you can learn to shape them as you see fit.

Generally, ficus trees respond well to regular and even heavy pruning. You should routinely prune out all of the dead twigs and weak growth in the center of the tree and also prune some outer growth as well. Keep in mind that new growth always emerges at the ends of healthy stems and branches.

Here are three pruning approaches to use.

1.Remove up to one third of the outer growth on all the stems and branches. This will shrink the overall canopy of the tree by one third. This approach will yield a smaller and fuller ficus tree. It is great for ficus trees that have outgrown their space.

2.Selectively prune back up to one third of the longest individual stems and branches into the center of the tree. This will open up the center portion to more light. The cut back stems will now produce new growth and fill in the sparse center area. When done regularly, this technique will maintain the existing size of the tree without making the pruning obvious.

3.Combine the first two.

Pruning ficus trees is as much art as it is science - like cutting hair. Try to visualize how your tree will look with certain branches cut back and also how it will look as the new growth comes in. I have successfully pruned back ficus trees enough that there was not a single leaf remaining. In time I had a beautiful tree with all new growth. Plunge in and have fun!

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
  
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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