Ficus Tree

Common Problems Encountered With The Ficus Tree And How You Can Remedy Them

You've heard what many say: a ficus tree is one of the best, if not the best indoor plant you can ever have.  So, you've decided to purchase one for your home, believing what other people likewise say about this plant type, that once it matures, it'll need very little maintenance.

The operative phrase there, of course is "once it matures."  While the ficus is still young, it is susceptible to a slew of possible problems.

Common Concern No. 1:  Help! My Ficus Tree Is Rapidly Shedding Its Leaves!

You have to bear in mind that these trees are originally outdoor plants.  They love sunlight.  They savor the fresh air.  They bask in the humidity of midday.  They adore soaking themselves in rainwater.  But in the United States and the United Kingdom, they have rapidly become popular indoor plants, given their smaller size and beautiful foliage. 

If your ficus is shedding more than it should, up to 70% of its foliage, chances are it is adapting to the new environment.  Ask yourself: how long has it been since you moved the ficus inside your home?  Did you move the same from one area of the house to another?

The ficus is quite sensitive to being transported.  A few feet of displacement and they will adjust all over again.  The stress will make them lose their leaves.

What should be done?  If shedding is already transpiring, try to avoid moving the ficus.  Allow it to fully adjust to the new surroundings.

If you're just contemplating on moving the ficus, make sure that you'll place it in an area where there is adequate amount of sunlight, and preferably, where open air can breeze through its leaves.

Common Concern No. 2:  Help!  My Ficus Tree Isn't Growing As Much As It Should!

You do know that ficus don't grow as much as other trees, right?  But if your ficus is showing signs of stunted growth, chances are, he's nit being watered well enough.  Ficus plants need lots of water, and preferably, moist soil (which can be quite smelly in an indoor environment). 

The solution?  Make sure that the holes beneath your pot are smaller than usual.  Allow the soil to retain as much water as possible.  Your ficus won't drown.

Common Concern No. 3:  Help!  My Ficus Tree Is Having Yellow Leaves!

There are two possible causes for yellowing leaves.  First would be dehydration, which is the obvious choice.  To remedy this, follow the solution provided in the preceding section of this article.

The second possible cause is insect infestation.  Meal bugs and spider mites are the usual culprit.  Get yourself some plant-safe insecticides and get rid of the insects that plague your ficus.