The weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is a popular indoor plant, known for its graceful branches and lush foliage. This article helps identify and resolve common problems with weeping figs.
Why Weeping Figs Are Sensitive
Weeping figs are sensitive to environmental changes, reacting to shifts in their surroundings. Factors like drafts, sudden temperature fluctuations, inconsistent light, or improper watering cause stress. They often respond by dropping leaves or developing other symptoms. Maintaining a stable environment is important for their well-being.
Common Leaf Issues
Weeping fig leaves often display symptoms indicating underlying problems.
Leaf Drop
Leaf drop is a common issue, signaling environmental stress. It occurs due to sudden changes in light, temperature, or inconsistent watering. Relocating the plant or seasonal light changes can trigger significant leaf loss. Provide consistent care and avoid frequent relocation. With improved conditions, the plant will stop shedding leaves and produce new growth.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves often point to improper watering, including overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Under-watering, insufficient light, or nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing. Ensure the top third of the soil dries out between waterings. Adjusting watering and providing bright, indirect light can help restore leaf color.
Browning Tips or Edges
Browning tips or edges frequently indicate low humidity, underwatering, or sensitivity to water components. Dry indoor air contributes to this issue. Increasing humidity through misting or a pebble tray can alleviate symptoms. Allowing tap water to sit for 24 hours before use can help if fluoride or chlorine are suspected.
Crispy Leaves
Crispy leaves usually result from severe underwatering or excessive direct sunlight. Extended dry soil causes leaves to shrivel. Intense direct sun can scorch foliage. Rehydrate the plant thoroughly by watering until drainage occurs. Adjust the plant’s location to ensure bright, indirect light, avoiding harsh afternoon sun.
Pest Problems
Weeping figs can suffer from various pest infestations. Regular inspection helps in early detection and treatment.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests causing speckled, yellowing leaves and fine webbing. They thrive in warm, dry conditions, often attacking leaf undersides. To treat, increase humidity and gently wash leaves with lukewarm water to remove mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be effective. Repeat treatments every few days.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are identifiable by white, cottony masses, found in leaf axils and on leaf undersides. They feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and sticky honeydew. For small infestations, use a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol to remove them. For larger issues, apply insecticidal soap to infested areas.
Scale
Scale insects appear as small, round, hard-shelled bumps on stems and leaves. They feed on plant sap, causing yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and sticky honeydew. Manual removal involves gently scraping off insects with a fingernail or soft brush. Horticultural oil can be applied to suffocate remaining pests.
Addressing Other Challenges
Weeping figs face other challenges requiring specific management.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, with sparse foliage and elongated stems, indicates insufficient light. Weeping figs require bright, indirect light for dense, bushy growth. To encourage a compact form, prune leggy stems in late winter or early spring. This stimulates new growth, promoting a fuller appearance.
Root Rot
Root rot results from persistent overwatering and poor drainage. Symptoms include wilting despite wet soil, yellowing leaves, and a mushy, foul-smelling base or roots. If suspected, remove the plant from its pot and inspect roots. Trim away any brown, mushy roots and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Stress from Repotting or Moving
Weeping figs are sensitive to changes, often exhibiting temporary leaf drop after repotting or moving. This “transplant shock” is a common reaction to root disturbance or environmental shifts. To minimize stress, handle roots gently during repotting. Place the plant in a consistent environment with bright, indirect light. Allow the plant time to adjust for recovery.