How to Care for Ficus

Ficus spp.

ABOUT FICUS

Popular varieties:

Ficus are a collection of air-cleaning houseplants with a lot of variety, from low ground covers to tall trees. There are about 850 species, including figs and some of the most popular indoor plants available today.

They offer various textures, so there is one to fit every style. The Ficus ‘Audrey’ is gaining in popularity as it’s a bit more forgiving than the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

WATERING

When should I water my Ficus?

To see if your plant needs water, stick your finger about an inch down into the soil. If it feels dry, water. If the soil feels moist, do not water. If you are unsure, check again in a few days.

Never mist your foliage. Misting leaves causes fungal issues and disease. The only plants that are okay to mist are ferns and carnivorous plants.

LIGHT NEEDS

Most thrive in medium or bright indirect sunlight, depending on variety.

Illustration of a living room with labeled plants, including a Bird of Paradise. A chair, window, and table with plants (numbers 1 and 2) are in the center. A small cabinet with plant number 3 is to the right. Icons below indicate light levels: high, medium, and low.

GROWTH

Heights vary widely depending on the type.

SOIL NEEDS

Prefer a slightly moist but well-drained soil mix.

TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY

Grow best in regular household temperatures and humidity.

FERTILIZING

Prune anytime it starts to get too large. Fertilize March through October. To help the plant grow optimally and evenly, occasionally dust the leaves, and rotate the pot by a ¼ turn once a month.

IS FICUS PET SAFE?

According to the ASPCA, they are toxic to dogs and cats.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Some may drop leaves when experiencing a change in condition. New leaves will grow once the plant has adapted to its new environment. If you have not moved your plant, the cause of the leaf drop could be over- or under-watering.

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The Benefits of Houseplants

(…and why we love them)

A lush fern plant with long, slim fronds is displayed in a sleek white, modern pot, resembling the elegance youd seek when learning how to care for African violets. The plant takes center stage against a plain white background.

They purify & clean the air

A small tree with a thick trunk and glossy green Bird of Paradise leaves in a white geometric-patterned pot, surrounded by smooth, round stones.

Boost your mood, reducing stress & anxiety

A Bird of Paradise with lush green, long, pointed leaves sits elegantly in a white pot against a pristine white background.

Help you sleep better

A vibrant green fiddle leaf fig plant sits elegantly in a textured white pot against a plain white background, reminiscent of minimalistic spaces. Though different from cacti, its care brings a serene beauty to any room.

Act as natural humidifiers

A potted monstera plant with several large, glossy green leaves featuring natural holes and splits stands proudly in a plain black pot against a white background. Its exotic charm might remind one of a Bird of Paradise, adding an elegant touch to any space.

Enhance cognitive skills

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