Comparing Ficus Bonsai varieties — notes from growing several

I've grown several varieties within the Ficus Bonsai family and have some observations to share. living art form that reflects decades of patient cultivation varies noticeably between them, more than catalogue descriptions suggest. The care fundamentals are shared — wiring branches during the growing season while wood is flexible applies across all of them.

drying out and death from missing a day's watering in summer affects some more than others, particularly in adverse conditions. I grow mine in a purpose-built outdoor bonsai bench with correct height which works well for most varieties. winter rest with protection from extreme frost for most species is the clearest moment of differentiation between varieties — that's when the character of each comes through. Worth growing a few side by side if you have the space.