Weeping Fig / Benjamin Fig
Ficus benjamina
description
Weeping Fig is an elegant indoor tree with arching branches and many small glossy leaves.
benefits
- Suitable for containers
warnings
- Toxic to cats
- Toxic to dogs
How to care for Weeping Fig
sunlight
In its tropical forest habitat, Weeping Fig grows in bright, filtered light. Give it a spot near a bright window, with light softened by a sheer curtain if the sun is intense.
Bright indirect light
Place it a few feet from an east, west, or south-facing window, or directly beside a bright north-facing window. More light supports fuller growth and helps prevent leaf drop.
watering
Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Water thoroughly once the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry, then let excess drain away. Ficus benjamina dislikes both prolonged dryness and wet roots, especially when conditions change suddenly.
Spring - summer
In bright, warm conditions, this is often about every 5-10 days. Check the soil first: water when the upper layer is dry but the root ball still feels slightly moist below.
Autumn - winter
Growth slows in lower light, so watering is often needed roughly every 10-21 days. Wait for the top 2 inches to dry, then water well. A smaller pot, porous mix, warm room, or brighter window will make it dry faster.
humidity
Weeping Fig comes from humid tropical forests, so it is happiest with evenly moist indoor air rather than dry heating or air conditioning.
Preferred humidity
Average homes around 40% are usually fine, especially for established plants. Below about 40%, brown crispy leaf edges, curling, and increased leaf drop can signal dry air, though leaf drop also follows changes in light or temperature.
Acceptable household range
To raise humidity, group plants together or run a humidifier nearby. Check with a hygrometer and aim for steady conditions rather than frequent swings. Good airflow helps prevent damp, stagnant air around the leaves.
temperature
Preferred range
Winter minimum
Native to warm tropical forests, Weeping Fig prefers steady indoor warmth. Keep it away from chilly windows in winter and avoid placing it beside heaters, which can create sharp temperature swings.
nutrition
March - August
Feed about once a month while your Weeping Fig is making new leaves, using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the label strength. Apply it to already moist soil. Stop feeding in autumn and winter unless the plant is actively growing in bright, warm conditions.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen supports the dense, glossy foliage that gives this tree its graceful look. A regular balanced fertilizer provides enough without pushing soft, weak growth.
Potassium
Potassium supports sturdy growth and helps the plant cope with the changing indoor conditions that can otherwise trigger leaf drop.
soil
Rich, airy, well-draining soil
Weeping Fig needs moisture around its roots without staying wet. Use a quality indoor potting mix loosened with perlite or fine bark, and grow it in a pot with drainage holes.
pH 6,0 - 6,5
This is slightly acidic, which helps roots take up nutrients well. Most fresh indoor potting mixes fall close to this range, so no special adjustment is usually needed.