Caring for your Ficus

Caring for a Ficus plant (which includes varieties like Ficus elastica, Ficus benjamina, and Ficus lyrata) can be quite straightforward as long as you meet its basic needs. Here’s a guide to help you keep your Ficus healthy and thriving:

  1. Light
  • Bright, indirect light is ideal for most Ficus plants. They can tolerate some direct sunlight but prefer filtered light, as too much direct sun can scorch their leaves.
  • Ficus elastica (rubber plant) can tolerate lower light conditions, but it will grow faster with more light.
  • Ficus benjamina (weeping fig) needs bright light and will drop leaves if it doesn’t get enough.
  • If the plant’s leaves start to yellow, it may be a sign that it’s not getting enough light.
  1. Watering
  • Ficus plants like moderate watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake, so make sure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogged roots.
  • Check soil moisture: Stick your finger about 1-2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. During the winter months, you may need to water less frequently.
  • Water thoroughly, ensuring the water runs out of the drainage holes, but don’t let the plant sit in standing water.
  1. Temperature
  • Ficus plants prefer warm temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). They are sensitive to cold and should be kept away from drafts, air conditioners, and heaters.
  • Avoid sudden temperature changes; they can cause leaf drop.
  1. Humidity
  • Ficus plants like moderate to high humidity. If you live in a dry climate or winter months make your home dry, consider increasing humidity by:
    • Misting the leaves occasionally (especially in winter).
    • Using a humidifier.
    • Placing a tray with water and pebbles under the plant (this helps raise humidity around the plant).
  1. Soil
  • Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix for houseplants or a cactus/succulent mix works well for most Ficus species.
  • Good drainage is important to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the pot and causing root rot.
  1. Fertilizing
  • During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Ficus with a balanced, liquid fertilizer once a month. You can use a general-purpose houseplant fertilizer or one with a higher nitrogen content for faster growth.
  • In the fall and winter, the plant is in a dormant phase, so you can reduce or stop fertilizing.
  1. Repotting
  • Ficus plants can grow quickly, so they may need to be repotted every 1-2 years to provide more room for root growth.
  • When repotting, choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger than the current one, and make sure it has good drainage.
  • Repot in spring or early summer for the best results.
  1. Pruning
  • Ficus plants can get quite large, especially varieties like Ficus lyrata (fiddle-leaf fig). You can prune them to control their size and shape.
  • Trim any dead or damaged leaves regularly to keep the plant looking neat.
  • Ficus plants are sensitive to shock, so pruning too drastically at once can cause leaf drop. It’s best to prune in moderation.
  1. Pests
  • Ficus plants are generally not very prone to pests, but they can sometimes attract mealybugs, spider mites, or scale.
  • Regularly inspect your plant for pests, especially on the undersides of the leaves. If you find any, gently wipe the affected areas with a damp cloth or use insecticide.
  1. Leaf Drop
  • A common issue with Ficus plants, especially Ficus benjamina, is leaf drop. This can happen for various reasons:
    • Changes in environment: Moving the plant to a new location, sudden drafts, or temperature changes can cause leaves to drop.
    • Inconsistent watering: Letting the soil dry out too much or overwatering can also cause stress and leaf drop.
    • If you notice this happening, try to identify any recent changes in the plant’s environment or care routine.
  1. Toxicity
  • Ficus plants are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep them out of reach of curious pets and children. The sap can also cause skin irritation for some people, so wear gloves when handling or pruning the plant.