We will show you some important Ficus plant care tips in this article including troubleshooting why ficus leaves falling off or yellowing. Ficus plants, commonly called figs are a group of about 900 species of trees and shrubs.
Popular Houseplant: Ficus Benjamina
The most popular houseplant is Ficus Benjamina, commonly known as the weeping fig or simply a ficus tree. There are several varieties of this plant that are grown as houseplants and as bonsais. Importantly, they are excellent air-purifying plants, as recommended by NASA.
Varieties of Ficus Benjamina
Weeping Fig (Ficus Benjamina)
Known for its drooping branchlets and glossy, oval leaves with a sharp pointed tip.
Starlight Ficus
A variegated version of the ficus tree with creamy-white margins on its leaves.
Ficus Safari
Similar to Starlight Ficus but with larger and thicker leaves.
Ficus Triangularis
A variegated variety with unique triangular leaves where the base of the triangle is the apex of the leaf.
Ficus Bengalensis
Also known as the Banyan tree, which is the national tree of India.
Ficus Elastica (Rubber Ficus)
Along with Ficus religiosa and other varieties, which you can explore in my video on Ficus bonsai collection at the bonsai museum. Check the link at the top right corner of the video.
Ficus Plant Care Tips (All Ficus Trees)
Sunlight
Most ficus trees thrive in bright, indirect sunlight or filtered sunlight, such as under a shade net. Variegated varieties can tolerate slightly more sunlight.
Avoid direct hot sunlight as it may cause leaf burning, browning, and drying. Leaf loss can result from various stresses including repotting, inadequate sunlight, or improper watering. Direct sunlight should be limited to early morning hours.
Soil Requirement
Ficus trees perform well in various soils, but the best growth is achieved in well-draining soil with ample compost and a nitrogen source like decomposed cow dung.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial to prevent leaf yellowing and drop. Check the top soil by dipping your finger; water only when it is completely dry to avoid overwatering.
Temperature and Humidity
Ficus trees cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and do best between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. They prefer higher humidity, so consider using a humidity tray made of pebbles and water in low-humidity areas.
Fertilizer
Feed your ficus once or twice a month during the growing season, excluding winter. Use a general-purpose NPK fertilizer or organic options like decomposed cow dung or horse dung.
Container Size and Repotting
For larger ficus plants, repot every 2 years into a larger container. For smaller containers, repot once a year. Perform root pruning if the plant is root-bound before repotting. After repotting, keep the plant in the shade for 1-2 weeks and water less frequently to mitigate transplant shock and leaf drops. Water once with a dilute Epsom salt solution (1 teaspoon per liter of water) if needed.
Please watch a video on Ficus Bonsai Collection at a Bonsai Museum with many beautiful fig bonsais and many are over hundred years old. You can watch this by clicking HERE.
Dr.Nazir, the green-thumbed visionary behind "Garden Tips" Youtube Channel, uniquely blends his medical expertise with a fervent passion for horticulture. As a practicing radiologist, Dr. Nazir has spent over a decade nurturing a love for gardening, mastering the art and science of fostering vibrant plants and plentiful harvests.
