Wildlife value of Ficus Bonsai — an unexpected bonus

I planted Ficus Bonsai primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. miniaturisation of full-grown tree characteristics seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a bright indoor shelf for tropical species only which allows me to watch the activity up close. winter rest with protection from extreme frost for most species is the most active period for wildlife visits. wiring branches during the growing season while wood is flexible is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. spider mite and scale in stressful growing conditions is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.