Weeping Fig
The Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) is an evergreen, ornamental tree with a compact, rounded crown and ascending branches, known for its attractive dark green, oval leaves. It grows up to 10-12 feet in height, and has slender pendulous branches that vigorously re-sprout from the main stem if pruned. Weeping Figs are very popular houseplants, and make a beautiful addition to any home due to their attractive foliage and easy maintenance. They can be kept pruned to a small size or trained and shaped into a shrub with multiple branches.
Water your Weeping Fig thoroughly during the growing season, and let the soil dry out in between waterings. During the winter months water it less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water the soil until it just begins to feel moist.
The Weeping Fig thrives in bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight. Place it in an area away from direct sunlight, and rotate the plant every few weeks. Too little light will cause yellowing of leaves, and too much direct sun can cause leaf burn. Moderate light intensity is ideal to keep it healthy.
Weeping Figs thrive best when the temperature is between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27 degrees Celsius). Do not put them in a drafty or overly cold location or they may become damaged from the cold. Keep them away from heaters during the winter as this can also damage the plant.
These trees prefer humid environments. To increase humidity you can mist the leaves with a spray bottle or put the pot on a tray with pebbles and water. Increase humidity anytime the leaves start to look dry or dull.
Weeping Figs prefer a fertile, well-draining potting soil. A good mix for this type of tree is a combination of loam, peat moss, and perlite. The soil should be slightly acidic and kept moist, not soggy. It is important to ensure that the soil has good drainage.
Weeping Fig can be fertilized in the spring and summer months. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer and dilute it to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to keep the plant healthy and growing.
Weeping Fig plants are prone to scale, aphids, mealybugs, whitefly, and caterpillars. Inspect the foliage and stems regularly for any signs of infestation: black or brown spotting on leaves, stunted or yellowed foliage, small webs, sticky substances, and very small bugs. To get rid of these pests you can use a homemade insecticidal soap mix or a commercial insecticide. Make sure to thoroughly cover the foliage and stems, and spray all sides of leaves and stems 3-4 times with a ten-minute interval. Repeat this process until you are sure that the pests have gone.
Repot your Weeping Fig every two to three years in the winter months. Use a fertile, loamy, well-draining potting soil. The pot should have drainage holes and be slightly larger than the root ball of your tree. After planting, water thoroughly and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Weeping Figs should only be pruned to shape occasionally as they put out vigorous new growth if pruned. Avoid over-pruning as this can cause damage to the trunk and roots. Trim weak or damaged branches to maintain the health of the tree and to promote new growth.
Mulch can be used to help retain moisture in the soil, and also to improve the health of the root system. Use an organic mulch such as wood chips, bark, or shredded leaves around the base of the tree to help keep the soil moist. Make sure not to cover the trunk of the tree with mulch.
Weeping Fig can be propagated through stem cutting. Cut a 4-6 inch stem from a healthy branch in the late spring or early summer and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a pot filled with soil and perlite mix and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and warm in indirect light. Soon you will see new roots forming and then you can transplant the cutting into a new pot.
Weeping Fig's branches are thin and can occasionally break with sudden or heavy movement. It is recommended to use a stick or pole to support the branches when they become too heavy.
Weeping Fig does not have a specific rest period. It is important to reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing. The plant should still receive its usual amounts of light and humidity in the winter months.
Yes, Weeping Fig is toxic to pets if ingested. The sap of the tree can also cause skin irritation and rashes. It is best to keep pets away from the plant or use caution with cats or dogs who may be tempted to chew or lick the plant.
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