For the last few months, you may well have been glancing at your fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata), hoping it managed to make it through the dry, dark indoor months. Now we’ve made it to the other side, your prized ficus is probably going to be a little dusty, weary and limp. Take heart! These gorgeous tropical giants wake up with a dramatic burst of energy in May, which makes it a lovely time to give your plant a little TLC.

Right now, your fig is begging for a spring refresh to help it develop fresh growth. That said, it is a creature of habit that loathes swift transitions. Because it is sensitive to environmental shifts, ignoring its needs at the start of the growing season is the fastest route to a sad display of dropping leaves. Now is a time for smart fiddle leaf fig care. Leaving it trapped in compacted winter soil or suffocating under a thick layer of dust risks sabotaging all that summer potential. So whatever you do, don’t let this vital window of active growth slip away.

Fiddle leaf fig care in May doesn't require hours of labor. In fact, giving your fiddle leaf fig what it craves is very straightforward and (dare I say?) a lot of fun. These simple steps can help you treat your plant both above and below soil level in clear, quick stages. So, let’s dive into the essential fiddle leaf fig care tips that will keep your leafy favorite happy, healthy, and stunningly vibrant all summer long.

Why May Matters for Fiddle Leaf Figs

After months of stagnant air and close confinement, your fiddle leaf fig is likely suffering from a bit of a winter hangover. Stuck with dry, artificial heating and miserable light levels for extended periods, many fig plants in living rooms and other interior spaces will enter spring feeling cranky. You might notice a few lower leaves yellowing, or the top growth looking limp. But in May, there is a surge in ambient room temperature and longer, high-quality daylight, which triggers an awakening, signaling to the plant that it is time to break dormancy and start building new tissue.

Because this shift happens so rapidly, fiddle leaf fig plant care in May is all about managing the transition smoothly. If you live in a warm southern USDA zone (10-11) where nighttime temperatures are holding above 55°F (13°C), you can harden off your fig to spend summer on a shaded patio. For those of us in cooler climates, figs will remain indoors. But whether you’re managing a huge fiddle leaf fig tree or a petite 'Bambino' variety, the basic needs are the same. They are all breaking out of survival mode and need a gentle hand to navigate this sudden spring growth spurt.

Before starting our steps, just run a quick health check. It’s wise to check moisture levels and inspect the undersides of the leaves for hidden winter pests. That way, you ensure you don’t stress a vulnerable root system or wave through a spider mite infestation. Take the guesswork out of soil health with a simple diagnostic tool, like the Sonkir 3-in-1 Soil Moisture and Light Meter from Amazon, to assess soil moisture levels ahead of these May plant refreshers.

Treat May as the seasonal wellness window that lets you quickly carry out some very easy (but very important) fiddle leaf fig tree care. You can buy powerful magnifying glasses and loupes, like the TekcoPlus 10x Foldable Pocket Loupe from Amazon, to inspect leaves up close to see what might be hitching a ride on the leaves. This helps you to catch problems early, so you can safely start these easy care steps.

1. The Deep Dust-Off and Spring Shower

Chances are there’s a thick, dull layer of household grime on your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves. If left, that accumulated dust will block out sunlight, choking the pores the plant uses to breathe and drastically reducing its ability to photosynthesize. This will lead to stalled spring growth, pale foliage, and spider mites that thrive in dust. This first May job is all about spring cleaning, and it’s both simple and satisfying. Just this one timely act of houseplant care will dramatically amplify energy levels, so your plant can maximize every single ray of that glorious, intensifying May sunlight.

It all comes down to careful handling. If you are managing a compact, dwarf or young fig, carry it to the bathroom for a lukewarm shower. Just wrap a plastic bag around the base of the pot to prevent soil washing away or waterlogging the roots. For massive or multi-stemmed houseplant trees, go for a hands-on sponge bath. Use lukewarm, filtered water and support the underside of each leaf with one hand while gently wiping the top with a soft microfiber cloth. Don't use harsh dish soaps or rub aggressively, as you can scar tender leaf cuticles. Do this early in the morning, so any water drops have time to evaporate, eliminating the risk of fungal leaf spots.

While a basic damp cloth is fine, some targeted pest-prevention adds a level of added squeaky clean care. If you suspect there might be winter pests lingering along leaf veins, replacing plain water with an organic neem oil wash. Use a neem oil spray like Captain Jack's Ready-to-Use Neem Oil Spray from Lowe’s to act as a highly effective cleaner, insecticide, and fungicide all at once. This ensures that those newly cleaned leaves are protected against the dry indoor air of the coming summer months, whether or not you subsequently move your fiddle leaf fig outside.

2. The Spring Awakening Feed

Once your indoor figgy’s leaves are clean, May is the time to reinstate a regular fertilizing routine to help your plant push out that heavy flush of new growth. To sustain those massive leaves, the plant requires plenty of fuel. This needs to be a nitrogen-rich formula, with a 3-1-2 NPK ratio. If you don't feed it now, any new spring leaves will emerge stunted, pale, and paper-thin. Worse, your hungry plant will begin cannibalizing its own lower foliage nutrients, causing old leaves to turn yellow and drop. Feeding now rewards you with robust foliage that can support its own weight.

This high-impact task takes only a few minutes of your time. Just make sure the soil is thoroughly damp before applying any liquid fertilizer, or else you risk scorching the delicate root hairs. Don't over-fertilize your indoor plants in a misguided attempt to force faster growth. Always feed your fig in the early morning, when its roots are actively absorbing moisture, and ensure it sits in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight so it can instantly convert those minerals into pure growing energy. Use a special 3-1-2 NPK formula like Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food (3-1-2 NPK Ratio) from Walmart every couple of weeks through summer to keep foliage strong and resilient.

While liquid concentrates mixed into a watering can are great for precision feeding, you can also buy slow-release organic spikes like Jobe’s Organics Houseplant Fertilizer Spikes from Amazon. These are helpful if you are worried about being forgetful as spring rushes towards summer and other plants start demanding more of your attention. These spikes keep your plant nourished for 6-8 weeks, and are great for established indoor trees. Whichever method you choose, feed and hydrate regularly through spring so your fiddle leaf fig has the structural integrity and deep-tissue health it needs to thrive all summer long.

3. The Root Check and Repot

Your fiddle leaf fig’s long-term vitality relies on a healthy root system. Over the course of a year, these tall plants can easily outgrow their containers. If your fig has roots circling tightly around the bottom of the pot or poking out of the drainage holes, or if water seems to run straight through the soil without absorbing, it is probably root-bound. Ignoring this issue will result in compressed, stunted growth and chronic leaf drop. May is the safest time to repot your plant, because the roots can heal and establish in fresh soil with astonishing speed, mitigating any risk of transplant shock and giving the plant the room it needs to burgeon in size and glossy goodness.

The key to repotting your fiddle leaf fig plant successfully comes down to support and leverage. Enlist a helper if your fig is over 4 feet (1.2m) tall, and gently lay the pot on its side on some tarp. You can also use a fold-up planting mat, like the Fiskars Repotting Mat from Amazon, to keep things super-tidy with its handy raised edges. Slide the root ball out horizontally rather than pulling violently on the main trunk. Use your fingers to gently massage and loosen tightly bound outer roots. Aim for a new container that is 2 inches (5cm) larger in diameter and which has drain holes. Repot during a mild and overcast afternoon. Return the plant to its original spot, so it doesn't have to adjust to new light levels while healing its roots.

Where a full pot upgrade is physically impossible, top-dressing serves as a brilliant, minimal-needs alternative. Simply scrape away the top 2-3 inches (5-8cm) of old, exhausted winter soil and replace it with a rich, fast-draining tropical potting mix to deliver a fresh wave of organic matter to the upper root zone. For a chunky, airy potting mix, the Perfect Plants Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil blend from Amazon stays loose and oxygenated. Alternatively, grab some Miracle-Gro Tropical Potting Mix, also available from Amazon, for optimal drainage and structural integrity. This 3-step rejuvenation will give your figgy friend the structural anchor and hydration balance required to stand proud, beautiful, and vibrant all summer long.

Shop Fiddle Leaf Fig Essentials

Giving your fiddle leaf fig the star treatment this spring deserves some key care essentials to supplement plant health with vital organic nutrients, tonics, and leaf health. This curated trio of fiddle leaf fig treats will help you nurture your favorite green giant toward a summer of spectacular growth and vibrant, bushy leaves.

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Fiddle leaf figs dropping leaves can look dramatic – big glossy leaves suddenly yellowing or tumbling to the floor – but this common problem is rarely game over. Your plant is signaling stress, so figuring out the reason why gives you the upper hand for fixing it.

Having a good grasp of the basics of fiddle leaf fig care may cover the essentials, but when leaves start falling, zeroing in on the trigger makes all the difference. These tropical beauties are sensitive to change, so even small shifts can trigger leaf loss.

Each underlying issue shows slightly different signs, which makes identifying and solving the problem easier. Let’s take a look at the most common causes of a fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves and how to get your plant back on track.

Why Is My Fiddle Leaf Fig Dropping Leaves?

Fiddle leaf figs react fast to changes – a new location, draft, or watering slip-up – and these picky houseplants drop their leaves. It’s their way of saying something’s wrong, but catching it early usually means a full comeback. Lower leaves tend to go first in most cases, but sudden upper leaf drop points to shock or pests.

The most common culprits of fiddle leaf fig leaves falling off are overwatering, underwatering, low light, temperature swings, or shock from moving. Each shows slightly different signs, so matching symptoms to causes will help you save time. Once the issue is fixed, new growth often appears within a few weeks as your plant recovers.

1. Overwatering

Overwatering tops the list of causes for fiddle leaf fid leaves dropping. Soggy roots from too much water can suffocate. Leaves turn yellow from the bottom up, then drop as rot sets in. If soil stays wet too long, it invites root rot that spreads fast and smells bad when you check on your plants.

Always inspect soil moisture before watering. Stick a finger about 1 inch (2.5 cm) down into the soil. If it’s damp, wait and don’t water. Use a well-draining potting mix, like this one from Miracle-Gro that’s made specifically for houseplants, and always plant in pots with drainage holes.

Fix an overwatered fiddle leaf fig by letting it dry out completely. Then if the roots are mushy, repot your plant and trim away any rotted roots with sterile scissors. To prevent future problems from overwatering, invest in a 4-in-1 moisture meter like this one from Amazon.

2. Underwatering

Underwatering dries out roots, makes leaves curl and turn brown at edges, and eventually makes fiddle leaf figs drop their leaves to save energy. You can spot this issue easily when you see soil pull away from the sides of your pot. Check the roots to see if they’re shriveled and feel brittle.

To fix an underwatered fiddle leaf fig, water your plant thoroughly until it drains out bottom. You can also soak the entire pot in the sink if the soil is totally dried out and hydrophobic, or won’t take in any water.

Prevent underwatering with weekly checks by lifting the pot – a light pot means that your plant is probably thirsty. A consistent plant watering routine keeps roots happy and leaves lush.

3. Low Light

Low light slows photosynthesis, leaving lower leaves yellow and eventually making them drop. Another sign of low light is when stems become leggy and stretch toward the window. Also, when growth slows, this could be a sign of a lack of sufficient sunlight.

Move your fiddle leaf fig to a sunnier spot with bright, indirect light. South or west-facing windows are ideal. Rotate your plant for even exposure to avoid leaning. If your house doesn’t have enough natural light, supplement with a grow light. I like this full-spectrum LED from Amazon.

3. Temperature Swings & Drafts

Temperature swings and cold drafts stress plants. Leaves may drop suddenly, often after turning brown or black around the edges. Heating vents or AC blasts can cause similar issues with crispy edges.

Keep indoor temperatures stable at around 65-85°F (18-29°C) and place plants away from drafts, heaters, and windows. If you want to move your houseplants, acclimate them slowly to their new spot.

Prevent leaf drop by providing consistent room temperatures and checking new locations have the ideal growing conditions for your fiddle leaf fig. Even small fluctuations can add up over time and cause problems.

4. Transplant Shock

Transplant shock often hits after repotting or moving and can make a fiddle leaf fig drop leaves as the plant adjusts to its new soil or light conditions. After the roots have been disturbed, uptake of nutrients and water slows temporarily. This is especially likely if you repot or transplant your plant in winter.

Water well after repotting a fiddle leaf fig and avoid fertilizing immediately. Give your plant some time and maintain proper plant care as you wait for new growth, which signals recovery.

To prevent leaf drop from transplant shock, handle roots gently and provide the same light conditions in the new location as the previous spot where you kept your plant. The best time to repot houseplants is in the spring when they begin actively growing again.

5. Pests & Diseases

Spider mites, which are a common houseplant pest, suck the sap out of foliage, leaving behind spots, yellowing leaves, and eventually making leaves drop. Check the undersides of leaves for webs or tiny bugs weekly. Fungal houseplant diseases caused by overwatering also make brown spots appear and spread.

Inspect plants often if you suspect issues starting. Wipe off mites with soapy water. This insecticidal soap from Amazon is perfect for cleaning pests off of houseplant leaves. It also helps to increase air flow and reduce moisture.

Prevent pests and diseases by putting new plants in quarantine before adding new ones to your collection or when moving plants back inside for winter. Always clean your tools to stop the spread of pests and diseases.

6. Nutrient Deficiencies

Nutrient deficiency often shows up as yellowing between the veins – also known as chlorosis – or pale, lackluster leaves dropping from the lower parts first. The plant pulls what it can from older foliage to keep new growth going.

Old soil depletes key elements over time, leaving the whole thing starved and more prone to shedding leaves that look tired and thin. A number of different nutrient deficiencies can cause fiddle leaf figs to drop leaves.

Here are some of the deficiencies that may be the cause of your plant losing foliage:

• Nitrogen Deficiency: A nitrogen shortage leaves plants looking pale or yellowish overall, especially older ones. Slowing growth and new leaves that stay small and weak are signs of nitrogen deficiency. This happens when soil runs low on a key element that aids in chlorophyll production, making the plant look faded and sluggish.
• Iron Deficiency: Iron deficiency, also known as iron chlorosis, causes bright yellowing between veins on younger leaves, but the veins stay green. This is common in alkaline soil that locks iron away. New growth suffers most, turning pale and spindly without enough to keep that healthy green going.

• Magnesium Deficiency: Magnesium deficiency shows yellowing between veins on older leaves with brown edges or spots because the plant pulls this element to new parts first. A lack of magnesium leads to curling or brittle foliage, especially in overwatered or compacted pots that hold too much dampness.
• Potassium Deficiency: Potassium deficiency brings brown, scorched margins and weak stems that bend easily, and lots of leaf drop. A lack of potassium weakens the overall structure, making the plant prone to disease in nutrient-poor or sandy soils that drain fast.
• Calcium Deficiency: Calcium deficiency appears as distorted new growth, brown tips, or spots on leaves. Roots struggle to take up calcium in cold or acidic conditions that mess with absorption. It hits tips and young parts of plants first, stunting growth and leaving leaf edges looking rough.

Fertilize with a balanced liquid houseplant food, like this one from Miracle-Gro, monthly during spring and fall. Mix it with water to half-strength to avoid fertilizer burn. Flush soil occasionally with plain water to clear salts.

Prevent nutrient deficiencies by replacing pots with fresh soil every one to two years. Test soil if yellowing lingers. pH issues often lock elements away and a soil test can tell you exactly what your plant needs.

The fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a tricky houseplant with huge payoff. Known for its massive fiddle-shaped leaves and dramatic stature, this West African native can grow to enormous heights even indoors. (I have a family member whose fiddle leaf fig is 9 feet (2.7 m) tall and still growing!) If you want yours to get that big, or just want to avoid the dreaded leaf drop, you need to master the art of repotting.

When Should You Repot Your Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Experts are all over the map when it comes to repotting a fiddle leaf fig. Some suggest doing it once a year, while others say every other year. Then there are those who say to wait until the plant tells you it's time.

I'm in the latter camp. Fiddle leaf figs like to be a bit root-bound, and also don't like their roots to be disturbed too much, so repotting more than necessary could lead to big problems. Here are some signs your plant is actually ready for a bigger home:

• Visible Roots: Roots are crawling out of the drainage holes or circling the top of the soil.
• Stunted Growth: The plant has stopped producing new leaves during the spring and summer.
• Water Issues: Water runs straight through the pot without being absorbed, or the plant wilts just a day or two after watering.

While it's impossible to predict when your fig will start giving you hints, you should try to repot in spring if at all possible. This is the start of the active growing season, and repotting now gives the plant the most energy and time to recover from transplant shock.

Step-by Step Repotting Guide

1. Choose the Right Container

Fiddle leaf figs are very prone to root rot, so keeping the container free from moisture is crucial. That means the pot you choose should only be one size larger than its current one. Too big a pot means too much excess soil that can hold moisture and drown the plant's roots.

It's also essential that you pick a pot with drainage holes. If you have your heart set on a beautiful container with no holes, you can still use it as a cachepot. That means you plant your fig in a well-draining plastic container, then slip that inside your decorative pot. To keep your fig from sitting in standing water, place a few wine corks in the bottom of the cachepot first – your actual container will ride high and dry on top of them.

2. Prepare the Plant

Water your fiddle leaf fig 24-48 hours before repotting. Moist roots are more flexible and less likely to snap during the move.

3. Remove and Inspect

Turn the pot on its side and gently slide the root ball of the plant out. If it’s stuck, run a butter knife around the inside edge.

Check for mushy or black roots – these are signs of root rot and need to be dealt with. Cut them away, making the cut well above where the root starts to look healthy again. Large pruning shears can be unwieldy and may nick nearby roots. Instead try a set of small pruning snips like these from Amazon.

4. Move to the New Pot

Fill the bottom of your new pot with well-draining potting soil. If you want to be safe, you can get soilless potting mix specifically designed for fiddle leaf figs on Amazon. Otherwise, you can use regular well-draining houseplant potting soil like this from Amazon with some perlite mixed in.

Add enough soil to the pot so that when you set the root ball on it, the top of the root ball reaches about 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the rim of the container.

5. Fill and Water

Fill the empty space of the pot with more soil, trying to keep the plant as centered as possible. Do not bury the stem of the plant any higher than the top of the root ball!

Tamp down the soil lightly, and water thoroughly until it flows freely from the drainage holes. If you're going to put it in a cachepot, let the water drain thoroughly first.

And that's it! You've successfully repotted a fiddle leaf fig. Keep a close eye on it and watch for signs of shock.

Repotting Essentials

Ficus is a popular house plant for its dramatic size and elegant look. Most of the ficus sold as house plants are Ficus benjamina, or weeping fig. If you grow a weeping fig, you may want to share with friends or just keep its growth under control with propagation. Ficus benjamina propagation can be done two ways: cuttings or air layering. 

About Ficus Tree Propagation

The main reason people propagate house plants is to create new plants. You can share them with friends or add another plant to your home. Another reason is to control growth. 

Weeping ficus is a large tree. In the wild it grows up to 50 feet (15 m.) tall. Indoors in a container it won’t grow so big, but you still may want to control its height and shape through propagation. 

How to Propagate Ficus by Air Layering

The most effective and quickest method for ficus propagation is air layering. The process encourages the growth of new roots on a branch while it’s still attached to the tree. Air layering occurs naturally in some situations. To propagate a ficus by air layering, follow these steps: 

1. Choose a branch you want to cut back. 
2. Use a sharp knife to make a slanted incision about one-third or one-half of the way into the branch. Make this cut about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm.) from the tip. 
3. Remove leaves from the area around the incision. 
4. You can dust the cut with rooting hormone to speed the process, but this isn’t necessary. 
5. Pack the cut with moist sphagnum moss and wrap more moss around the cut section of the branch to produce a ball. 
6. Wrap the moss with plastic and secure with tape or twist ties so that it doesn’t lose moisture. 

You will begin to see roots forming in the moss. How long it takes varies but could be a few weeks to months. When you have a good root system, cut off the branch just below and replant in a new container. The cut branch on the original plant will grow new leaves. 

Ficus Cutting Propagation 

You can also propagate a ficus from cuttings, but this takes longer and is not the most desirable option. For ficus, take tip cuttings rather than sections. Remove leaves from the bottom of the cutting and use a moist medium to grow roots. Rooting hormone will help speed the process. 

For the best results, provide the cutting with humidity and warm temperatures. You may need to use a heating pad underneath to get good root growth.

Ficus tree size and lifespan are important considerations when choosing to grow this popular houseplant. In the wild, these are tall trees. Indoors, you can restrict growth by growing them in containers. 

Growing Ficus Indoors 

Ficus is infamously finicky. Outside its native range, confined to a pot indoors, it can be difficult to grow. Ficus trees need bright light. They like regular watering but will struggle if the soil stays damp all the time. They also don’t like to be moved, so find the best spot and stick with it. 

If you want to attempt growing a ficus inside, understand its needs first. You’ll want to consider how long it will grow and as well as how big it could get in order to provide it with the best conditions. 

How Tall Do Ficus Trees Grow? 

The natural height and the houseplant height of a ficus are two different things. Height also varies depending on which ficus you grow. 

• Ficus benjamina is the most common houseplant ficus. Also known as weeping fig, it’s native to southeast Asia and can grow up to 40 feet (12 m.) there. As a houseplant, it is usually about 10 feet (3 m.) tall. 
• Ficus elastica is also popular for its attractive foliage. Also known as rubber tree, this plant is native to South Asia and can grow up to 100 feet (30.5 m.) tall. In a container, you can reasonably keep F. elastica 6 to 10 feet (2-3 m.) tall. 
• Ficus lyrata, also known as fiddle-leaf fig, this African native grows to 100 feet (30.5 m.) in its home range. Indoors, you can cap it at 10 feet (3 m.). 

Growing it in a container will naturally keep a tall ficus tree smaller. To maintain a reasonable size, don’t replant into a larger pot until it is very root bound. Give it a new container that is only a little bit bigger. 

How Long Do Ficus Trees Live? 

The ficus lifespan is long compared to some other houseplants. These are large trees in their native ranges, so they have lifespans comparable to trees. 

How long a ficus tree lives indoors depends on its care and growing conditions. If you do everything right, it can live for decades. Some people have grown the same tree in a container for 40 plus years. 

That a ficus can grow tall and live for many years is a great reason to consider it as a houseplant. The care you put into growing a ficus will reward you with years of plant companionship. 

Ficus trees are frequently used as houseplants and grown in containers indoors. Often two or more ficus are sold in the same pot. It’s all too easy for these potted trees to become rootbound, a condition that slows or stops the plant’s growth. When this happens it’s time to think about ficus tree division. Splitting a ficus tree isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Read on to learn how and when to split a big ficus. 

Ficus Tree Division

You need to divide a large ficus if the plant has become rootbound. If you aren’t familiar with that term, it’s when the tree roots get heavily tangled and compacted. Rootbound plants cannot grow since the roots are not able to deliver water and nutrients to the canopy. When to split a big ficus? Ficus tree division becomes necessary when the roots outgrow container space and cause the vigor and health of the plants to suffer. 

Splitting a Ficus Tree 

Many times, several ficus trees will be combined in one pot to make the plant look fuller. The roots grow together, tangle, and fill up the pot. When you are splitting a ficus tree, you’ll need to get the tangled root ball out of the pot in a cool, shaded area to keep the roots cool. Tip the container and work the tree out of the container carefully. 

Once the root ball is out, pull soil off the root ball with your hands. Then soak the root ball in a bucket to remove the remainder of the soil. Untangle the roots by hand until you can pull the trees apart. Repot each tree in a new container filled with well-draining potting soil.

Divide a Big Ficus

If you have a truly big ficus tree that is actually two trees grown in one pot, you may need to consider root pruning. Root pruning is a technique often used by gardeners when it is necessary to transplant a large tree outdoors. 

Essentially, root pruning involves cutting a trench around (or in this case, through) the root ball to encourage small, feeder roots to grow. These roots will transplant with the tree making the transplant less traumatic for the plant. 

To root prune a large ficus, use a sharp knife to cut a trench through the root ball between the two ficus plants. Fill the trench with potting mix, water the plant, and leave it alone for a few months. Root pruning causes each tree to grow brand new feeder roots along the trench. When you go to separate and repot the trees, each will have the roots they need to supply food and water.

If growing and caring for a bonsai tree seems too difficult, consider diving into the miniature tree world with a ginseng ficus. It’s unique looking, with aerial roots, and is considered to be very forgiving for beginners. Growing ginseng ficus as a bonsai tree is a great idea for a hobby to try or as a gift for a fellow gardener.

Ginseng Ficus as a Bonsai

Ginseng ficus (Ficus retusa) is one variety of this large group of fig trees. Native to southeast Asia, the ginseng ficus is also called banyan fig, Taiwan ficus, and laurel fig. It is most striking in appearance because it grows thick roots that stay exposed above the surface of the ground. As a bonsai, the effect is of a small tree standing on legs.

The tree grows oval-shaped, dark green leaves. The trunk of the ginseng ficus is thick and bulbous, reddish gray, and has tiger-like stripes. The leaves grow densely, giving you a thick canopy. The best part of growing ginseng ficus as a bonsai tree is that it requires little maintenance.

How to Grow a Ficus Ginseng Bonsai

Ginseng ficus bonsai care is simple and minimal, making this a perfect choice for anyone who is new to bonsai. First, find a good place for your tree. Ginseng ficus naturally grows in warm, moist climates. Place it somewhere that won’t get too cold and out of any drafts that could suck moisture from its leaves. Make sure it will get a lot of indirect light and avoid a spot with direct, bright light.

Your little ginseng ficus will grow well indoors with warmth and light, but it also appreciates trips outside. Set it outdoors in the summer months in a spot that is bright with indirect sunlight, unless you live in an arid climate, in which case the air will be too dry.

A ginseng ficus will tolerate some over or underwatering but aim to keep soil moderately moist throughout the summer and back off a little in the winter. To make the air more humid, set the tree on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Just make sure the roots aren’t sitting in water.

Ginseng ficus pruning isn’t difficult. The art of bonsai is to trim and shape the tree with your own aesthetic in mind. In terms of how much to trim, the general rule is to take off two to three leaves for every six new leaves that grow and develop. Always leave two or three leaves on a branch at least.

With just a little simple care, growing and maintaining a ginseng ficus as a bonsai tree is easy. It’s a creative project for a gardener or any plant lover that can last for years to come.

What is a ficus ginseng tree? It is native to south and eastern Asian countries. It is in the Ficus genus but has a chubby trunk, which is similar to ginseng roots – hence this common name. Keep reading for more ficus ginseng tree info.

What is a Ficus Ginseng Tree?

A quick scan of ficus ginseng tree info reveals that its botanical name is Ficus microcarpa. The tree is the result of a graft where the rootstock is developed into the characteristic “potbelly” trunk, and a scion of a variety of small-leaved ficus is grafted to the top.

The tree is also known as a potbelly fig as well as Taiwan ficus, Indian laurel fig, or banyan fig. Ficus trees grow very quickly and make excellent indoor plants. They have white, milky sap and they can be poisonous to cats or dogs who like to graze. The trunks of these trees are interesting with smooth, gray bark marked with tiger stripes and sometimes vertical aerial roots.

Ficus Ginseng Care

This is a tropical tree, so it needs to be indoors where temperatures are 60 to 75 Fahrenheit (15-25 C.), or outside of its 9-11 growing zones. In fact, ficus ginseng is often recommended for beginning bonsai growers. This is because it is such an easy tree to grow.

The tree needs plenty of bright light but it should be indirect. Avoid the southern exposure where the sun may burn leaves. Outdoors, the tree requires sun to shady conditions.

Select the perfect spot for this tree and then try not to move it. Ficus are notoriously cranky when moved. It does, however, appreciate repotting every 2 to 3 years. Avoid placing the tree in any area where there are drafts or near heat, as one will freeze the tree and the other will dry out the soil.

Wipe the leaves when they get dusty and water only when the surface of the soil is dry to the touch. This plant prefers high humidity, if possible, which will encourage it to produce more aerial roots. Either mist the leaves frequently or place the pot on top of pebbles in a saucer of water.

Since the tree grows fairly quickly, an occasional ficus tree pruning now and then will help maintain an adequate indoor size, especially when grown as a bonsai plant. As with any pruning, use clean, sharp tools.

The addition of houseplants is a great way to brighten the interior of homes, offices, and other small spaces. While there are many smaller species of houseplants available, some growers choose to implement larger statement making plants into their décor, like ficus. When planted into containers, many tall plants create lush, dense foliage displays. The longleaf fig is just one example of a larger plant specimen which thrives when grown indoors. Keep reading for tips on growing longleaf figs in the home.

Longleaf Fig Info - What is a Longleaf Fig?

Longleaf fig, or Ficus binnendijkii, is a tropical, evergreen plant. Reaching up to 100 feet (30.5 m.) when grown in tropical conditions, many may not think it probable for use as a houseplant. In fact, despite its large stature in nature, this plant grows exceedingly well in container culture, though most container grown plants will not exceed 6 feet (2 m.) in height.

Another prominent feature of this plant – longleaf fig trees offer beautiful year-round foliage in the form of long and narrow leaves (hence the common name).

How to Grow a Longleaf Fig

Compared to some other houseplants, when growing longleaf fig, care is relatively simple. Those wishing to grow this plant will have the best chance of success by purchasing plants which are already established, rather than attempting to grow from seed.

First, one must select a properly sized container in which they plan to grow the tree. Since longleaf figs often get quite large, the pot selected should be at least twice as wide and twice as deep as the plant’s root mass. Gently transplant the tree, and move it into its final location indoors.

Longleaf fig plants should be placed near a bright window in order to receive high amounts of light. However, with this in mind, the plants should not receive direct sunlight through the window. Paying close attention to the leaves and growth habits of the plant will help better identify what adjustments may need to be made as to ensure that the plant receives optimal sunlight.

In addition to specific light requirements, these plants are especially sensitive to temperature changes and should not be exposed to those below 60 F. (16 C.). Even gusty drafts caused by the opening and closing of doors throughout the winter may cause the plants to drop some leaves.

As with many tropical houseplants, longleaf fig care will require weekly misting in order to ensure that adequate humidity is maintained.

A few years ago, the fiddle leaf fig was the “it” plant and to some extent it still is. Many became enamored with its large, glossy, violin-shaped leaves which brought the wow factor to a home’s décor. Perhaps you now have this trendy plant in your home and are wondering how to keep your plant as “fit as a fiddle.” Fiddle leaf fig pruning is one good way to keep the plant in top form by giving it good form. So, let’s get a sharp pair of pruning shears in hand and learn how to prune fiddle leaf fig.

When to Trim a Fiddle Leaf Fig

The most ideal time for pruning fiddle leaf fig is when it is actively growing, which is typically spring or early summer.

How to Prune Fiddle Leaf Fig

While the thought of fiddle leaf fig pruning may seem intimidating, cutting back fiddle leaf figs is actually very easy. Be properly equipped when cutting back fiddle leaf figs. You will want to make nice clean cuts on your plant. This will only happen with a sharp clean pair of pruning shears, not a dull pair of scissors. When pruning fiddle leaf fig, it is also recommended to protect the area around your plant with a drop-cloth, as any cuts made may ooze a sticky sap on your floors and nobody wants that. If you are so inclined, consider saving the healthy clippings and root them in a jar of water to make more fiddle leaf fig plants. Your cuttings should develop good root systems within 1-2 months, at which point they can be planted into small pots. How you go about pruning fiddle leaf fig will largely depend on your personal preference. Don’t like the look of tattered or scorched leaves or diseased branches? Simply snip off any of these eyesores with your pruning shears. Fiddle leaf figs either have bare or leaf-covered stems or trunks. If you’re angling for a more tree-like look, your fiddle leaf fig pruning will involve removing the older lower leaves on the trunk, provided you have healthy growth happening on top of your plant. Are you satisfied with the current height of your fiddle leaf fig? At the top of your main stem is a growing tip from which new leaves will emerge. To keep the height of your plant in check, you will need to pinch out these tender leaves as they appear with your fingers. This may also help to deter lower leaf drop as well as encourage branching of your plant near the pinching points. Is your fiddle leaf fig plant too tall or leggy? Examine the nodes on the main stem (a node is where a leaf attaches to a branch) and make a cut slightly above one of those nodes at your desired height. Follow this same process for any horizontal or outward branches that may be too long for your liking. New growth may develop below the points where you were cutting back fiddle leaf figs.

You may have seen people growing fiddle-leaf figs in southern Florida or in containers in well-lit offices or homes. The huge green leaves on fiddle-leaf fig trees give the plant a definite tropical air. If you are thinking growing this plant yourself or want information on fiddle-leaf fig care, read on.

What is a Fiddle-Leaf Fig?

So exactly what is a fiddle-leaf fig? Fiddle-leaf fig trees (Ficus lyrata) are evergreen trees with enormous, fiddle-shaped, green leaves. They can get 15 inches (38 cm.) long and 10 inches (25.5 cm.) wide. Native to African rain forests, they only thrive outdoors in the warmest climates like U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10b and 11. The only places where you can start growing fiddle-leaf figs outdoors in the U.S. are coastal areas in southern Florida and southern California.

How to Grow a Fiddle-Leaf Fig Outside

Even if you live in a very warm zone, you may not want to start growing fiddle-leaf figs. The trees grow to 50 feet (15 m.) tall, with a spread just a little smaller. Trunks grow several feet (1 to 1.5 m.) thick. That may be too large for small gardens. If you decide to go ahead, plant your fiddle-leaf fig trees in a sunny location protected from the wind. This will increase the tree’s longevity. Another step you can take to keep the tree alive longer is to prune the tree early and often. Remove branches with tight branch crotches, since these can break off in storms and put the tree’s life at risk.

How to Grow a Fiddle-Leaf Fig Indoors

In cooler climates, you can start growing fiddle-leaf ferns as attractive container plants. Use a pot and potting soil that provide excellent drainage, since these trees won’t survive wet soil. Place it in a spot where it gets high, indirect light exposure. Fiddle-leaf fig care includes adequate water, but the worst thing you can do to fiddle-leaf fig trees is to overwater them. Don’t add water until the top inch (2.5 cm.) of soil is dry to the touch. If you start growing fiddle-leaf figs in containers, you’ll need to repot them every year. Move up one pot size when you see roots emerging from the pot.

If you’ve ever watched your favorite weeping fig drop its leaves like tears when the light changed a little, you may be ready to try banana leaf ficus tree (Ficus maclellandii sometimes labeled as F. binnendijkii). Banana leaf fig is much less temperamental than its cousin ficus species and adapts more readily to changing illumination in your home. Read on for information about growing banana leaf ficus.

Ficus Banana Leaf Plants

Ficus is the Latin word for fig and is also the genus name of about 800 fig species. Figs are woody trees, shrubs, or vines native to Asia, Australia, and Africa. Those species cultivated for home gardens or backyards either produce edible fruit or are grown for their ornamental value. Banana leaf ficus trees are shrubs or small trees with long, saber-shaped leaves. The leaves emerge red, but later turn dark green and become leathery. They droop gracefully from the tree, adding an exotic or tropical look to your home. Ficus banana leaf plants can be grown with one stem, multiple stems, or even braided stems. The crown is open and irregular.

Growing Banana Leaf Ficus

Like the weeping fig, the banana leaf ficus tree grows into a small tree, up to 12 feet (3.5 m.) tall, and is usually grown as a houseplant. As a tropical fig, it can only grow outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 11. Growing banana leaf ficus plants successfully is mostly a matter of finding the correct location for the shrub. The banana leaf fig needs an indoor location with bright filtered light that is protected from drafts. Use well-drained soilless potting mix for growing banana leaf ficus plants. When it comes to banana leaf ficus care, your temptation may be to overwater the tree. However, you must resist. Keep the soil slightly moist and avoid overwatering. If you apply an inch (2.5 cm.) of organic mulch, like wood chips, it helps keep that moisture in. Fertilizer is a part of banana leaf ficus care. Feed your ficus banana leaf plant with a general, water-soluble fertilizer every other month in spring, summer, and fall. Do not fertilize the plant in winter. You can prune the plant a little if you think it is necessary to shape it.

Weeping figs (Ficus benjamina) are elegant trees with slender gray trunks and a profusion of green leaves. Weeping fig tree care depends on whether you are growing them indoors or outdoors. Let’s learn more about outdoor care for weeping figs.

Weeping Fig Plant Information

Growing weeping fig trees indoors and growing weeping fig trees outdoors are two completely different endeavors. It is almost as if indoor and outdoor weeping figs are different species. Indoors, weeping figs are attractive container plants that rarely grow above 6 to 8 feet (2 m.). Outdoors, however, the trees grow into huge specimens, up to 100 feet (30 m.) tall and 50 feet (15 m.) wide and are often used for hedges. That being said, weeping figs only thrive outdoors in USDA plant hardiness zones 10 to 11. Therefore, most weeping figs are grown as indoor plants. If you are fortunate enough to live in one of these warm, tropical-like areas though, caring for weeping figs outdoors is something you need to know.

Weeping Fig Tree Care Outdoors

As indoor container plants, weeping figs grow quite slowly, but outside, it’s a different story. This plant can quickly become a monster of a tree if not kept pruned, which it tolerates well. In fact, with regard to weeping fig tree pruning, it readily accepts severe pruning, so don’t hesitate to remove any dead foliage when you see it. If you want to do weeping fig tree pruning to shape or reduce the size of the tree, you can take off up to one-third of the outer growth of the canopy at a time. Caring for weeping figs indoors is a matter of selecting an appropriate location. As its roots spread just as fast as it grows tall, the tree can potentially damage foundations. So, if choosing to grow outdoors, plant it well away from the home, at least 30 feet (9 m.). If you read up on weeping fig plant information, you find that the plant prefers well-drained, moist, loamy soil and thrives in a location with bright, indirect sunlight indoors. Outdoors is pretty much the same with a few exceptions. The tree can grow well in full sun to shade. Once established, weeping figs are fairly drought and heat tolerant. They are said to be hardy to 30 degrees F. (-1 C.), but just one hard frost can cause severe damage to the tree. However, when grown in areas with less harsh winters, most will rebound provided the roots are protected. Adding a 3 to 4 inch (8-10 cm.) layer of mulch can help. Outdoor problems with weeping figs include freezing temperatures, severe drought, high winds, and insect pests, especially thrips. Weeping fig tree care can be tricky since issues are often hard to diagnose. No matter what the problem the tree reacts the same way: it drops leaves. Most experts agree that the number one cause of leaf drop in weeping figs is overwatering (especially indoors). A good rule of thumb is to keep your tree’s soil moist but never wet, backing off the watering in the winter. You can provide the tree with liquid fertilizer about once a month during the growing season, but outdoors this isn’t usually necessary or advisable due to its faster growth.

Ficus are one of the most common and easy to grow houseplants. In fact, they are so easy to grow indoors that occasionally the plants outgrow their site. Ficus plants don't like to be moved, so the best option is to prune the plant to keep it manageable. 

Let's talk about how to prune a ficus tree and, more importantly for the plant's health, when should ficus be pruned? Ficus are not winter hardy and are generally grown as houseplants in the United States and other parts of the world. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions and are considered part of this type of exterior landscaping in warm zones. 

Indoor plants have slow, steady growth but can become heavy on the ends and lose their arching shape. Rejuvenation pruning will make the plant more compact and enhance proper branch formation.

When Should Ficus Be Pruned?

Obviously, trimming ficus trees is necessary if the plant has grown into a byway or is touching the ceiling. Trimming to diminish size is a common reason for pruning any woody plant. Timing is also an issue. 

Ficus tree pruning needs to take place when the plant is no longer actively growing. Most plants are vegetatively active in spring and summer, with growth dying down in fall. 

By winter, the plant has gone into dormancy and is less susceptible to injury. Therefore, winter is the best time for trimming ficus trees. You can prune out dead material at any time during the year.

How to Prune a Ficus Tree

Use a clean sharp pair of bypass pruners and don a pair of gloves. Ficus have a latex sap that may be irritating to skin. 

First, look at the tree overall and decide what areas need to be minimized. If the tree is too tall, this is clearly where you start, but if you need to create a better silhouette, you will have to make a plan before you start cutting. 

There are some cutting rules for ficus tree pruning in order to create a better appearance and keep cuts from looking obvious. Once you have decided which vegetation needs to go, the first step is to remove any dead or broken branches. This will give you an even better idea of the remaining necessary cuts.

Ficus Pruning Tips

Cut just before a growth node so that new growth will sprout there and cover the stump. Another tip is to remove a branch back to another branch that is one of its size. This will prevent unsightly stubs and restore the size and appearance of the ficus. Cut at a slant away from the node or secondary branch. 

If you have a damaged ficus with lots of dead growth, prune away no more than one-third of the material. You can cut more off later as the plant recovers. The best time to try this sort of pruning is after the plant has started re-sprouting so you can ensure that you are not removing recovered material. 

In the meantime, give the tree lots of TLC and cross your fingers.

The potted indoor ficus trees sold in garden stores are usually weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), but other Ficus species are also readily available like the fiddleleaf fig (Ficus lyrata). These popular plants have graceful spreading forms and dense canopies of dark leaves. Indoor ficus trees are much smaller than their wild cousins and have a wide range of form, height, and growth habits. Read on to learn general information on how to care for a ficus. 

How to Care For a Ficus Tree

Care for indoor ficus trees varies slightly among species. Since the majority are weeping figs, we will use these plants as the basis for our care instructions.

Weeping figs have a reputation for being finicky, but they are fairly easy to care for if given the appropriate light, water, and cultural care. Indoor ficus trees are considered delicate because of their light sensitivity; if they are moved to an area with more or less light, they often drop their leaves. In time, new ones grow.

Water and Light Requirements

Most ficus trees enjoy bright indirect or filtered light with variegated varieties happily able to take medium light. Bright, direct light may result in scalding of the leaves and leaf loss. Ficus trees also cannot tolerate low temperatures or drafts. They need to be kept in temperatures above 60 degrees F. (16 C) and actually prefer temperatures above 70 degrees F. (21 C). Cold drafts from windows or doors will harm them, so make sure to place them somewhere where drafts will not be an issue.

Soil and Fertilizer Needs

Like so many houseplants, weeping figs require soil with excellent drainage. Use a medium that is both porous and fibrous, or make your own mix from three parts fertile to one part coarse sand and one part peat. Many grow weeping figs without fertilizer, but it’s best to use a water-soluble fertilizer every month or so during the growth period. 

Humidity & Temperature

Weeping figs like warm temperatures, to 70 degrees F. at night and 85 (21 and 29 C.) during the day. For the best ficus plant care, provide high humidity, with 40% relative humidity set as the minimum for undisturbed growth. 

Note that the more light and the warmer the temperature, the more humidity and water the tree requires. Regular misting or setting the ficus tree on a pebble tray filled with water is a great way to increase humidity. Cold drafts from windows or doors will harm ficus plants, so be sure to place them where drafts are not an issue.

Ficus Pests, Diseases & Problems

Weeping ficus can attract a number of pests, including scale, aphids, mealybugs, thrips and spider mites. “Sap” dripping from a ficus houseplant is actually honeydew from an invading pest,and is a sure sign of an infestation. Treating the plant with neem oil is a good way to handle any of these pest issues. 

They are also subject to several diseases caused by bacteria, including leaf spots and crown gall, as well as some caused by fungus, like anthracnose and blight. As noted above, indoor ficus trees can drop foliage when the light or temperature in their environment changes. Leaf drop is a ficus tree’s standard reaction to stress, whether it’s from any of the following:

• Under or overwatering
• Low humidity
• Too little light
• Relocation or repotting
• Drafts
• Change in temperature (too hot or cold)
• Pests

Pruning, Repotting and Propagating Ficus Plants

Ficus plant care can include shaping or even hard pruning. The trees react well to this, but reduce water levels to severely pruned plants. 

Weeping figs like to be a little rootbound. If the indoor plant gets too rootbound, you will notice smaller leaves and slowing growth. In that case, ficus care required repotting the plant in late winter or early spring. Propagate ficus species by air layering or tip cuttings.  

Types of Ficus Trees

Weeping fig: Ficus benjamina. This graceful little tree has drooping branches. 

Indian rubber plant: Ficus elastica. A tough, shorter houseplant with an erect stem and large leathery leaves.  

Decora: Ficus elastica ‘Decora. The heavy leaves have prominent, depressed veins with ivory/red midribs. 

Fiddleleaf fig: Ficus lyrata. An easy-to-grow fig with deep green waxy fiddle-shaped leaves.

Ficus are notoriously finicky plants. They are sensitive to temperature changes, being moved, lighting, and other conditions. A ficus tree losing leaves is a common complaint. Why is my ficus dropping leaves? Almost any change in the plant’s environment will make it let its displeasure known by defoliating. Ficus leaves falling off for no discernible reason is one of the top searched questions for fig plant owners.

Why Is My Ficus Dropping Leaves?

A ficus dropping leaves can indicate several unfavorable situations. A ficus losing leaves might be due to the most minute environmental or cultural factor. As a houseplant, these are glorious plants, but they are also one of the more picky plants when it comes to care and situation. It might not be any aspect of ficus care you are doing wrong. It could just be the time of year or other uncontrollable factors. Keep reading for some possible causes and solutions to a ficus losing leaves.

1. It's Getting Too Much Water

Ficus are a little like Goldilocks. If they get a smidge too much water they are unhappy. A day late watering? They''ll express outrage. In the case of too much moisture, waterlogged roots will protest by sending out a signal to the leaves to abandon ship. In appropriate soil, it is best to let the tree dry out for a couple of days before giving it a little water with a small watering can, like this 1.8L watering can on Amazon. Manually check to see if the top inch ( 2.54 cm.) of soil is dry and then give it water.

2. It's Not Getting Enough Water

Fig trees appreciate even, moderate moisture. When the plant does not receive adequate water, it may react by dropping some leaves. In the winter, the ficus is not actively growing and should receive a bit less moisture. This may cause it to drop a few leaves but that is normal. If the plant is defoliating during the growing season, it may be underwatered. Keep the soil lightly moist during spring through fall. On average, water your ficus once per week.

3. It's Not Getting Enough Sun

Indoor fig trees like to be in a bright spot near a window. An eastern or western window will provide the right amount of light daily. In the winter, light levels normally drop and the number of day hours decrease. Such a natural phenomenon is a signal to plants like Ficus that they should drop leaves. Winter leaf drop due to lower light is not a concern provided it is just a few leaves and not a wide spread defoliation

4. You Moved It Recently

One of the biggest pieces of advice from seasoned Ficus owners is to never move the plant. l once had a magnificent Ficus tree but I had to move. I babied the Ficus in its new home but to no avail. These plant’s sensitivity to change is maddening. Even temporarily moving the plant to clean the area could cause it to drop a leaf or 2.

5. It's In A Drafty Area

Ficus prefers a temperature range of 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit ( 21-29 C.). In the home this is often a bit hot, but at the least the temperature should not drop below 60 F ( 15.56). Once a plant is acclimated to the interior temperature, do not change it. A draft will cause a leaf to drop. Summer heat blazing in through a window will make the plant lose leaves. At all costs, maintain an even temperature.

6. It Needs More Humidity

Ficus are tropical to subtropical plants. They like it warm and humid. Keep the plant away from blowing air conditioning or heating vents, which will dry out the ambient air. If you want to raise the humidity for houseplants, use a humidifier near the plant, spritz the leaves with water, or place it on a saucer of pebbles filled with water. Ficus need an indoor humidity of 60-80 percent.

7. It Has Sooty Mold

If you put your tree outside for the warm season it may get attacked by insects. Aphids and scale in particular can infest a tree. These insects secrete a substance called honeydew which coats the leaves. Honeydew can turn into sooty mold, a fungal disease. The mold coats the leaves and diminishes the amount of energy the plant can gather from the sun. Clean the leaves and spray the plant with horticultural oils or soaps to kill the insects.

8. It Has A Pest Problem

Insect feeding will diminish the health of the plant. Especially sap sucking insects like aphids. If the infestation is severe, the hoard of insects will deplete the plant of its energy, leading to defoliation. Check under leaves and on stems, and especially on new growth. If you spot any insects, begin treatment.

Will My Ficus Leaves Grow Back?

Unless the entire health of the tree is dire, in most cases the leaves will resprout. As long as no more than ½ of the tree has defoliated, correcting the situations and providing optimum care will see the tree back to health and filled with glossy leaves.