Growing Ficus (Houseplants)

Latin Name Pronunciation: fie' kus

Ficus is an ancient, large, and diverse genus of evergreen trees, shrubs, and vines growing mostly throughout the tropics, inhabiting warm, temperate regions. The genus includes numerous species grown as houseplants, all containing toxic sap; site plants out of the reach of children and pets and wear gloves when pruning.

Light: Ficus is an adaptable houseplant, thriving in rooms with moderate to bright filtered light such as that from an east or west window with sheer curtains or partially opened blinds. In a light-flooded room, place your plant toward the interior, away from strong direct sunshine. Ficus plants will tolerate low light but grow very slowly. Choose the right spot and give your plant time to adjust to light levels; plants may drop some leaves when moved into new light conditions.

Watering: Water when the top 1" of the potting mix is dry to the touch.

Temperature: Ficus plants find typical household or office temperatures agreeable, 70-80°F during the daytime, 60-70°F at night are ideal. Avoid cold drafts.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced (18-18-18), water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (generally April into September). Do not fertilize in winter.

Humidity: Moderate humidity is beneficial. Keep away from radiators and vents that blow dry air from heating or air conditioning systems. Mist a few times a week to increase humidity, set plants on top of pebbles in a tray with water (don’t let water touch the pot) or run a humidifier nearby. Occasionally wiping leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust is recommended.

Please Note: Due to its toxic sap, site this plant out of the reach of children and pets and wear gloves when pruning.