Repot just-received ficus?

[MSGhero]

I got a green island ficus from Wigert’s, and I’ve had it indoors (80-85 F, 60% RH) in the shade of some grow lights. However it’s in ~100% organic soil, and 4 days in I can still feel moisture below the surface. There was mildew on day 1 before I moved a fan to face the tree directly.

It’s now pushing new growth all over, so should I be worried about root rot? I’m used to mostly inorganic soil or small pots of organic, but I don’t want to repot if it’s not necessary or even harmful.

I’m restricted to indoor growing.

 

[LooselyWired]

Let it get used to the new digs. If it is already actively growing that is the most positive sign of all that things are good with its current situation. You can think about what substrate you would prefer when it is due for the next repot.

 

[Shibui]

Summer is a great time to repot ficus.
Active growth is a great time to repot ficus.
Indoor conditions means more warmth for ficus to recover from repotting.
Getting any tree into a soil type you are familiar with and comfortable caring for is always a bonus.

If you are convinced that new soil would be a good idea for your tree at your place I would still be comfortable with doing that now.

 

[MSGhero]

I was planning on repotting a month after receiving it, but the mildew on day 1 spooked me. I still have 1.5-2 months of these temps and I haven't watered it yet, so I'll decide after at least one watering once I get a feel for the soil. Any more mildew though means repot.

 

[Eckhoffw]

Might as well put it in soil you desire. Nice inorganic soil means drainage will be awesome. No fears of overwatering.

 

[Carol 83]

Wigert's grows their starter trees in soil conditioner (I asked them) I've repotted trees from them within a couple of days after receiving them. Never had a problem.