Peepal Tree (Ficus religiosa): How to Plant and Care for It in Jaipur
Ficus religiosa
The peepal, or sacred fig, is a long-lived shade tree that feeds birds and bats and is revered across India. Here is how to plant it in Jaipur, care for it in its first three years, and why it needs plenty of space.
Care in the first three years
These are practical tips that work well for most sites.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep). In year 1, plant, build the basin, fix the guard and weed. In year 2, weed, repair the basin and top up the mulch. By year 3, widen the basin to about 2 m.
Post-monsoon (Oct–Nov). Lay 8–10 cm of mulch (dry leaves or straw), keeping it off the stem. Water weekly in year 1, every 10 days in year 2, and every 2–3 weeks in year 3 if it is dry.
Winter (Dec–Jan). Jaipur's winter nights are usually 4–9 °C, but frost is possible (the record low is −2.2 °C). On frost-warning nights in the first winter, cover the sapling with jute or a straw "jhompri" left open to the south. By year 3, protection is usually not needed.
Spring (Feb–Mar). New pinkish-copper leaves appear. Check for scale insects and mealybugs, which affect fig trees. In year 2, prune only to remove crossing or damaged shoots. In year 3, start raising the canopy slowly by removing the lowest branches.
Summer (Apr–Jun). Water twice a week in year 1 and renew the mulch. If leaves scorch, put a shade-net on the south-west side. Water weekly in year 2 and every two weeks in year 3.
All year. Watch for termites at the base and keep the guard intact. Remove the guard once the stem is out of reach of goats.
This article was prepared with AI assistance. Please check important details against the sources shown in each section.
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