Ficus Tree Care Guide – How To Keep Your Ficus Green & Healthy | The Plant Factory
Introduction
There’s something effortlessly elegant about a Ficus tree. With its slender trunk and full canopy of glossy leaves, this tropical plant brings a lush, polished vibe to interiors — from minimalist living rooms to cozy reading nooks. But like many houseplants, a Ficus tree has its quirks. If you’ve ever struggled to keep one happy, you're not alone.
In this Ficus tree care guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know to help your Ficus thrive indoors. From watering schedules to lighting tips and preventing that dreaded leaf drop, this guide has you covered.
Choosing the Right Spot: Light for Your Ficus Tree
Ficus tree care starts with choosing the perfect spot. Ficus trees love bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may cause the plant to become leggy or drop its leaves.
Place your Ficus near a large window with sheer curtains, where it can enjoy filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it near drafty windows or vents — sudden changes in temperature can shock the plant.
Watering: Striking the Right Balance
Watering is one of the trickiest parts of Ficus tree care. These plants prefer a consistent watering routine, but they hate soggy soil. Aim to water your Ficus when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always use pots with drainage holes to avoid root rot.
In warmer months, your Ficus may need water once a week. During winter, cut back slightly as growth slows.
Pruning: Keeping Your Ficus Tree In Shape
Pruning is essential for maintaining your Ficus tree’s appearance and encouraging new growth. Trim back any dead, damaged, or leggy branches using clean, sharp shears. This not only helps the plant look fuller but also redirects energy to healthier areas.
If your Ficus is getting too tall or wide for its space, don't be afraid to shape it. Pruning regularly will keep it lush and balanced.
Preventing Leaf Drop: The Ficus Drama
Let’s be honest — Ficus trees can be drama queens. A common complaint is leaf drop, often caused by stress. This can happen when you move the plant, change its watering routine, or expose it to fluctuating temperatures.
To minimise leaf drop:
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Keep your plant in a stable environment
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Avoid moving it around too much
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Maintain consistent watering and lighting
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Check for pests like spider mites or scale
Fertilising Your Ficus Tree
Feed your Ficus with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
This will help maintain vibrant green foliage and encourage new leaf development — a crucial step in good Ficus tree care.
Repotting Your Ficus Tree
As your Ficus grows, it may outgrow its current pot. If you notice roots growing through the drainage holes or the soil drying out too quickly, it’s time to repot.
Choose a pot that’s one size larger and use a high-quality potting mix that drains well. Repotting is best done in spring, giving the plant time to adjust and grow into its new space.
Love the Look But Not the Upkeep?
Let’s be real — not everyone has the time (or the patience) for real plant care. Ficus trees are known to be a little moody indoors — which is why so many people are making the switch to our designer artificial ficus trees. Same visual impact, zero plant stress.
Style them in your living room, office, or entryway and enjoy lush greenery year-round without the worry.
Explore our best-selling styles here:
Final Thoughts
Ficus tree care doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right spot, a consistent watering routine, and some thoughtful pruning, your Ficus can flourish for years to come. Whether you’re an experienced plant parent or a total beginner, the Ficus adds elegance and calm to any room.
And if real plants aren’t your thing — you’ve got gorgeous, lifelike options waiting at The Plant Factory.
