How to Grow Ficus Plant Indoors

Ficus plants are a popular choice for indoor greenery due to their attractive leaves and ease of care. They are also known as fig trees and come in many different varieties, including the weeping fig, rubber plant, and fiddle-leaf fig. If you’re thinking about adding a ficus plant to your indoor space, here are some tips on how to care for it.

Light and Temperature

Ficus plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn their leaves, while low light can stunt their growth. Place your ficus near a window that receives plenty of light but is shaded by a sheer curtain or blinds.

Ficus plants thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F. Keep them away from drafts and air conditioning vents, as sudden temperature changes can cause leaf drop.

Watering

Water your ficus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure to let the soil dry out before watering again. If your ficus is in a pot with drainage holes, water it until water comes out of the bottom of the pot. If it’s in a decorative pot without drainage holes, be careful not to let water sit in the bottom of the pot.

Soil and Fertilizer

Ficus plants prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss or perlite for better drainage. Fertilize your ficus once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the fall and winter when growth slows down.

Pruning

Regular pruning will help keep your ficus plant healthy and looking its best. Trim back any yellow or brown leaves as soon as you notice them. You can also prune back any branches that are getting too long or leggy. Ficus plants can also be trained to grow in a certain direction by using stakes or wire.

Common Problems

Ficus plants are generally easy to care for, but they can be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some issues to watch out for:

• Leaf drop: Ficus plants can drop leaves if they’re overwatered, underwatered, or exposed to sudden temperature changes. If you notice yellowing or dropping leaves, check the soil moisture and temperature around your ficus.

• Pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can all infest ficus plants. Regularly inspect your plant for any signs of pests and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

• Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of your ficus plant to rot. If you notice soggy soil or a foul smell coming from your pot, your plant may have root rot. Repot it in fresh soil and trim back any rotted roots.

FAQ

How often should I water my ficus plant?

Water your ficus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This may be once a week or less depending on the humidity in your home.

Can I keep my ficus plant outside?

Ficus plants are tropical plants and will not tolerate temperatures below 60°F. If you live in a climate with mild winters, you can keep your ficus plant outside during the summer months.

How big do ficus plants get?

Ficus plants can grow up to 10 feet tall if given enough space and proper care. However, they can also be pruned to stay smaller and more compact.

Why do my ficus leaves turn yellow?

Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or underwatering, as well as pest infestations or sudden temperature changes. Check the soil moisture and temperature around your ficus to diagnose the problem.

Can I propagate my ficus plant?

Yes, ficus plants can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil. Cut a 6-inch stem from the tip of your ficus plant and place it in water or soil until roots form.