Question
Hi...
 We are moving to a much smaller place, and would like to know if I can
place a fichus tree, approximately 4 feet high, in a finished basement area
which has excellent florescent lighting.  It may be the only place for this
large plant.  Also, I have a number of cactus, and wonder what kind of
lighting they require.

Thanks

Answer
Jeff,

Your ficus tree will only survive and stay healthy in the basememnt under flourescent lighting if it is directly under a 4 tube light fixture that is on for 14 hours a day and off for 10 hours 7 days a week. With less light than that it will start loosing a lot of leaves.

Cactus is a desert plant and loves the sun. They require a lot of light. They do best sitting next to a south facing window with no drapes or outside in full sun. In the basement they would need a 4 tube flourescent light fixture hanging no more than 12 inches above them. You can hang it from a sawhorse or from the ceiling but it needs to be close to the plants and it needs to also be on for 14 hours a day and off for 10 hours 7 days a week. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene