Grow Light for Creeping Fig: Ficus Pumila on Walls and in Terrariums
A grow light for creeping fig gives Ficus pumila the bright indirect light it wants on a wall or in a terrarium. NC State Extension notes the plant is native to China plus is often grown as a houseplant or in a greenhouse.
The short answer
NC State advises bright, indirect light or part shade indoors, out of afternoon sun. Iowa State Extension advises medium to bright indirect light for terrariums plus notes heat builds quickly when light is too intense. A grow light on a timer, run up to 16 hours a day, suits both setups.
What is creeping fig?
NC State notes creeping fig climbs 8 to 15 feet, like English ivy, by attaching to walls or supports with clusters of short roots. It rarely flowers or fruits indoors but thrives in high humidity.
How much light does creeping fig need?
NC State advises bright, indirect light or part shade plus shelter from afternoon sun. Illinois Extension rates medium light at about 150 footcandles plus bright light at about 300 footcandles. Illinois advises 14 to 16 hours a day in low light plus no more than 16.
| Factor | Target | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor light | Bright indirect or part shade | NC State |
| Terrarium light | Medium to bright indirect | Iowa State |
| Medium light | About 150 footcandles | Illinois |
| Hours in low light | 14 to 16 a day | Illinois |
| Upper limit | 16 hours a day | Illinois |
Source: NC State Extension, Iowa State University Extension plus Illinois Extension.
How do you light a terrarium with creeping fig?
Iowa State advises medium to bright, indirect sunlight for terrariums plus advises against spots in direct sun since heat builds quickly. A grow light above the glass adds steady light. Iowa State notes closed terrariums often need water only every 3 to 6 months, plus advises pruning as needed.
How to: step by step
- Pick a wall support or terrarium.
- Use a soil based mix.
- Set the light so it is bright but indirect.
- Run it up to 16 hours a day.
- Water regularly in the growing season.
- Prune as needed.
Troubleshooting
Fogged hot glass: light too bright. Iowa State notes heat builds quickly.
Leggy runners: too little light. Maryland notes low light makes plants spindly.
Dry crisp leaves: low humidity. NC State notes it likes high humidity.
For more on lights see grow lights for cannabis plus led light distance cannabis. Read grow light timers to set hours. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Ficus pumila (creeping fig), NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Lighting for indoor plants, University of Maryland Extension
- How to create and care for a terrarium, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
- Lighting, houseplants, Illinois Extension
FAQ
Does creeping fig need a terrarium?
No. NC State Extension notes it is grown as a houseplant plus climbs walls or supports. Iowa State notes terrariums suit plants that want higher humidity.
How does creeping fig climb?
NC State Extension notes it climbs like English ivy, attaching itself to walls or supports through clusters of short roots.
How often should creeping fig be pruned?
NC State Extension advises pruning as needed. Iowa State advises pruning terrarium plants as needed to hold their shape.
Can creeping fig grow in low light?
NC State Extension advises bright, indirect light or part shade. Maryland Extension notes too little light makes plants spindly.
What pests affect creeping fig?
NC State Extension lists scale, aphids, mealybugs, thrips plus spider mites.
