Ficus Care Guide

Light Requirements

  • Ideal: Bright, indirect light
  • Tolerates: Medium light (for F. elastica, F. benjamina), but growth slows
  • Avoid: Low light (causes leaf drop), and direct sun on delicate-leaved species (F. lyrata, F. triangularis)

Fiddle Leaf Figs and Ficus audrey prefer being near large windows with sheer curtains, while Rubber Trees can handle slightly less light.

Watering

  • Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry before watering.
  • Water deeply until water drains out the bottom—then discard excess.
  • Consistency is key: avoid letting the plant completely dry out or stay soggy.

Leaf drop is often a response to:

  • Overwatering
  • Underwatering
  • Sudden environmental changes

Always check moisture with your finger or a moisture meter before watering. Ficus hate extremes.

Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining soil mix: standard potting soil with added perlite or orchid bark works well.

  • Repot every 1–2 years or when rootbound.
  • Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent rot.

For large trees, add a few handfuls of horticultural charcoal or pine bark to improve airflow around roots.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Ideal temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)
  • Avoid: Cold drafts, sudden temperature swings, or heat vents
  • Prefers moderate to high humidity—especially F. lyrata and F. triangularis

If leaf edges are crisping or browning, bump up humidity or mist regularly.

Fertilizer

  • Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer (diluted to ½ strength).
  • Skip or reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.

F. lyrata and F. elastica benefit from fertilizers with a touch more nitrogen to support lush foliage.

Pruning & Maintenance

  • Prune to shape, reduce leggy growth, or encourage branching.
  • Clean leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust.
  • Rotate the plant every 1–2 weeks to encourage even growth.

Pinching tips encourages branching, especially on Ficus lyrata and benjamina.

Pests & Problems

Ficus can be prone to:

  • Spider mites (especially in dry air)
  • Mealybugs
  • Scale
  • Fungus gnats (in overwatered or compact soil)

Treat with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or systemic treatments. Maintain airflow and avoid overwatering to reduce pest pressure.

Toxicity

All common Ficus species are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Sap can also be a skin irritant for some people.

Propagation

  • F. elastica, audrey, lyrata: Stem cuttings, ideally with nodes and a leaf; root in water, moss, or soil.
  • F. benjamina, triangularis: Propagation is trickier but possible via air layering or semi-hardwood cuttings.

Use rooting hormone and high humidity for best success.