Question
My ficus tree suffered a major loss of branches last year and has branches on
only one side.  I was able to revive the tree and it is doing beautifully, however
half the tree still has no branches.  How do you initiate branch growth from the
trunk of a ficus?

Answer
Hi Shari,
   I have a 'Silver Cloud' Ficus Benjamina that was the exact same way. The first growing season the one side leafed out beautifully but nothing on the other side. The second growing season is when it started growing branches on the previously branch-less side.
Just take good care of it and be patient. Next summer the plant will likely start growing branches on the side that it is currently branch-less.

I hope this helps. If you have any questions or need additional information please don't hesitate to ask.
          Thanks
              Tracy