Ficus bonsai needs a position suited to its light and temperature requirements, with watering adjusted to a small root space. Check the tree after moving it, because a new position changes both growth and drying.
Ficus bonsai is a living tree in limited soil
A small container restricts water and root space; it does not remove the tree's need for light. Give an indoor tropical ficus a suitably bright position and protect it from cold drafts. Outdoor changes should be gradual.
Inspect moisture frequently
Water when the actual bonsai medium requires it, wetting the root ball and letting drainage escape. Shallow pots can dry quickly, but a dense, deteriorated medium can remain wet. The appearance of the top moss layer is not enough to decide.
Separate pruning from root work
Shape healthy growth selectively and allow recovery after major work. Repot because of the roots and medium, using appropriate bonsai guidance, rather than cutting roots every time leaves are trimmed.
Watch branches and wire
Training wire can tighten as stems thicken. Inspect it and adjust before it cuts into bark. Leaf fall after a move calls for a review of conditions and roots; it is not automatically a reason for drastic pruning or stronger fertilizer.
