Ficus religiosa over wooden head project

[mango_kush]

so I'm planning on rooting these ficus over this wooden buddha head.

I figured I would just cover it with soil in the container and plant the trees on a flat part of his crown. I would cut circular pieces of the container from the top to remove the dirt when rooted.

I eventually want the tree to root completely around the head

I'm a total newb so any help would be greatly appreciated
[img]https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/twoflyasianguy/hhh030.jpg[/img]
[img]https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/twoflyasianguy/hhh031.jpg[/img]
[img]https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/twoflyasianguy/hhh032.jpg[/img]

[JTred]

I really have to get around to starting a root over rock one of these days. Anyhow it looks like you're off to a pretty good start. Are you planning on using regular potting soil or a proper bonsai mix. You will probably get better root growth with a free draining bonsai mix.

[bonsaiboy]

Here is a link to a site that should provide you with some information on this: https://www.bonsaihunk.us/cultural.html I would also suggest that you treat the Buddha head quite often with some sort of plant-safe fungicide, to prevent decay.

[manawa]

Hello mango_kush,
How's it going with this "root over buddha head" project?

Recently had the same idea (over a stone sculpture though), and seems pretty hard to find any info /pics / tips on the subject !

Would be nice to have some feedback.
Cheers

[froggy]

Check the bonsai gallery forum, there's a nice thread on a root over rock schefflera - ficus should behave similarly, except for pruning...

With the wood sculpture, I am pretty sure there's no way of avoiding water damage, rot even if you keep it too wet... A free draining mix might help a bit, but the aged look will happen sooner or later. (I assume that's what you are aiming for though)
If the wood is treated, it might stay in better shape, but end up poisoning the tree...

Good luck though it should end up quite interesting...

[mango_kush]

I put it in gritty mix, its still rooting. is ficus religiosa a strangler? how much should I expose the roots as it grows?

the wood is kinda hard and not very porous, it looks as if its holding up pretty well, no signs of rot. it was imported free trade so I'm not sure what it is made of. I'm hoping it holds up, its looking pretty promising.