Ficus Benjamina Plant Care Tips

Ficus Benjamina Lighting & Position

Ficus Benjamina will do best in a well lit position with lots of bright indirect light. 

Ficus Benjamina Watering

It’s important to keep up a regular watering routine. In summer you want to keep the soil moist but let it dry out slightly between waterings. To monitor this, you can use your finger to poke into the top 5 cm of potting mix and feel the soil moisture level before watering. If it feels particularly wet, let it dry out for longer. Over watering can lead to fungal issues or root rot. Try watering a once a week, but always testing the soil first to see if watering is necessary. During winter, when the plant isn’t in an active growing phase you should reduce watering frequency and use tepid/room temperature water. 

As with all plants, drainage is essential. Ensure that whatever vessel your plant is in, there are sufficient holes in the bottom to allow excess water to freely drain from the pot and away from the plant’s roots. 

Ficus Benjamina Humidity

Ficus will appreciate a moderate level of humidity to prevent leaves from browning at the edges. Some tips for increasing humidity include grouping plants together, placing pots on a pebble tray or – if you want to go all out – buy a small humidifier online and place it in amongst your plant friends! 

Ficus Benjamina Fertiliser

Feed with liquid fertiliser fortnightly over the warm, growing period and not at all over the cooler winter months.

We recommend using our Plant Food available here. 

Ficus Benjamina Extra Tips

Once a month you can wipe down the plants leaves using a damp cloth to clean away any dust that has collected and may be preventing the leaves from breathing. It’s completely normal for older leaves, lower down on the stem of the plant, to fade in colour and brown off as they age. Prune off any damaged or dying leaves using a sharp pair of scissors or secateurs so that the plant can put more energy into the newer, healthier growth. 

Ficus Benjamina leaf drop: https://plantcaretoday.com/why-do-ficus-trees-lose-leaves.html

Ficus Benjamina Toxicity

The sap that is emitted from all parts of the Ficus benjamina is highly toxic. Contact with the sap can lead to both allergic and dermatitis reactions. As a result, the plants should be kept away from small children.

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