Live to Plant

Why Is My Ficus Audrey Plant Falling Over

Updated: April 5, 2022

Ficus Audrey, also known as the Banyan tree or Indian fig tree, is a popular houseplant that is loved for its beautiful glossy leaves and easy-to-care-for nature. However, one of the most common problems that Ficus Audrey owners face is when their plant starts falling over.

If you are experiencing this issue with your Ficus Audrey, don’t worry. This article will cover the reasons why this might be happening and what you can do to fix it.

Reasons for Ficus Audrey Falling Over

  1. Overwatering: One of the most common reasons why a Ficus Audrey plant falls over is due to overwatering. When the soil is constantly wet, the roots become weak and can no longer support the weight of the plant.

  2. Lack of Light: Another reason why a Ficus Audrey might fall over is due to lack of light. The plant needs bright, indirect light to thrive. If it’s not getting enough light, it will start to lean towards the light source which can cause it to become unbalanced and fall over.

  3. Pest Infestation: Pests like mealybugs and spider mites can cause damage to the plant’s leaves and roots which can weaken the plant’s structure and cause it to fall over.

  4. Pot Bound: If your Ficus Audrey has been in the same pot for a long time, it could be pot bound. This means that the roots have grown so much that they have nowhere else to go, causing the plant to become unstable and fall over.

  5. Diseases: Diseases like root rot or fungal infections can weaken the roots of the plant and make it more prone to falling over.

How to Fix a Falling Over Ficus Audrey Plant

  1. Repotting: If your Ficus Audrey is pot-bound, it’s time to repot it. Choose a pot that is one size bigger than your current pot with good drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its current pot and loosen the roots before placing it in the new pot. Fill the new pot with fresh soil and water it well.

  2. Reduce Watering: If you suspect that overwatering is the cause of the problem, reduce watering frequency. Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.

  3. Prune Your Plant: If your plant is leaning towards the light source, consider pruning it to encourage new growth that will be more balanced.

  4. Move Your Plant: If your Ficus Audrey is not getting enough light, move it to a brighter location or consider investing in grow lights.

  5. Treat Pests and Diseases: If pests or diseases are causing your plant to fall over, treat them immediately. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat pests and fungicides to treat fungal infections.

FAQ

My Ficus Audrey plant is still falling over even after trying all of these solutions. What should I do?

If none of these solutions work, it’s best to seek help from a professional gardener or horticulturist. They will be able to assess the situation and provide tailored advice on how to fix the problem.

How often should I water my Ficus Audrey plant?

Ficus Audrey plants prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not wet. Water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I propagate my Ficus Audrey plant?

Yes, you can propagate your Ficus Audrey plant using stem cuttings. Make sure the cutting has at least two leaves and place it in a pot filled with moist soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light.

In conclusion, Ficus Audrey plants are easy to care for but can fall over for a variety of reasons. By following the solutions outlined in this article, you can help your plant regain its balance and thrive once again.