Ficus Microcarpa
Growth - Ficus are a fast growing tropical species that prefer full sun, but carry a very large tolerance to quantity of light received. Ficus are also very tolerant of water variance, as long as they are growing outdoors. One of the few species that can tolerate growing indoors, even though this is not recommended.
Fertilizer and pests - Ficus can be fertilized more or less year round, as long as temperatures are in the range to allow continued growth. Ficus do not require heavy fertilization. Ficus are susceptible to white fly, thrip, and other insects. Ficus are incredibly tolerant of pesticide and insecticide sprays. Start with organic products like neem or insecticidal soap, but can tolerate harsher chemicals without issue.
Pruning - Pruning can be conducted year round. Pruning back branches will often trigger many new buds at the cut site. Pruning branches will produce a white sap that can be irritating to the skin. Defoliation should be conducted only when necessary, however species is very tolerant to this procedure.
Repotting - Species can be repotted any time there is active growth, but the warm months of summer are best. Active root growth means that the canopy will recover quickly. Try to conserve some portion of the root mass when repotting. When doing a severe repot, balance the load by removing more leaves to match the amount of root removal.
Styling - Ficus are an incredibly flexible species. Conducive to wiring, ficus can be presented in nearly any style whether it be upright, cascade, literati, multi-trunk, etc.
Propagation - Ficus can easily be propagated from cuttings, even as thick as an inch or more. Best to take cuttings in the late spring and early summer when root growth is at its highest. can be placed directly into soil and rooted. Ficus can also easily be air layered.