Bountiful Gardens

The Elegant Weeper: Ficus benjamina

Native to Asia and Australia, the Weeping Fig is a versatile plant that can be grown as a large tree, a bushy shrub, or even a braided ornamental. It is particularly valued for its ability to soften the hard lines of a room with its delicate, pointed leaves and graceful habit.

Suggested Placement in the Home

• The "Permanent" Spot: Choose your location carefully. This plant is notorious for dropping its leaves in protest if moved even a few feet. Find a spot and let it stay there.

• Large Entryways: Its vertical growth makes it perfect for filling empty corners or flanking a bright doorway where it won't be bumped into frequently.

• The Bright Office: It thrives in consistent temperatures, making it a great choice for well-lit workspaces away from direct air conditioning vents.

Care & Maintenance

• Managing "The Drop": If you bring a new F. benjamina home and it loses half its leaves, don't panic. This is its standard reaction to a change in light or humidity. Maintain consistent care, and new leaves will grow back quickly.

• Pruning: It takes very well to pruning! You can trim it at any time to maintain its shape or to keep it from getting too leggy. It is also a popular choice for bonsai.

• Leaf Cleaning: Its many small leaves can be hard to wipe individually. A gentle "shower" in the sink or bathtub every few months will wash away dust and hydrate the foliage.

• Consistent Moisture: It prefers a steady watering schedule. If the soil stays too dry for too long, it will drop leaves; if it stays too wet, the roots will rot.

The Essential Tip for Beginners

The "Finger Test" is Law: Because Ficus benjamina is so sensitive to watering, never water it just because it's "Thursday." Always stick your finger into the soil. If it feels damp, wait two more days. Only water when the top inch is dry to the touch. Consistency in soil moisture is the #1 way to prevent the dreaded leaf drop!