🍃 How to Fix Dropping Leaves on Your Ficus
- 💧 Overwatering causes leaf drop; ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- 🌡️ Maintain humidity levels between 40-60% to avoid leaf curling and dropping.
- 🐛 Check for pests like spider mites; they can significantly impact leaf health.
Causes of Leaf Drop
💧 Overwatering and Its Effects
Overwatering is a common culprit behind leaf drop in Ficus plants. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and root rot, which can be detrimental to your plant's health.
To prevent these issues, ensure your Ficus is planted in well-draining soil. Watering frequency should typically be every 1-2 weeks, but always adjust based on environmental conditions.
🚰 Underwatering and Its Effects
On the flip side, underwatering can also lead to leaf drop. Look for crispy, brown leaf edges and drooping leaves as signs of stress.
Older leaves are often the first to drop when your plant is thirsty. Adjust your watering schedule based on humidity and temperature to keep your Ficus thriving.
🌡️ Environmental Stress Factors
Temperature
Ficus plants thrive in a temperature range of 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Extreme temperatures can cause stress, leading to leaf drop from cold drafts or excessive heat.
💨 Humidity
Maintaining humidity levels between 40-60% is crucial for your Ficus. Low humidity can result in leaf curling and dropping, which is a clear sign your plant needs more moisture.
To boost humidity, consider using pebble trays, humidifiers, or regular misting. These methods can significantly enhance your plant's overall health.
🐛 Pest Infestations
Common Pests
Pests can wreak havoc on your Ficus, leading to leaf drop. Spider mites are often indicated by webbing and stippled leaves, while aphids leave a sticky residue and cause distorted new growth.
Regular monitoring is essential for early detection. Catching these pests early can save your plant from significant damage.
🛠️ Treatment Solutions
Understanding the causes of leaf drop is the first step. Next, let's explore effective treatment solutions to restore your Ficus to its former glory.
Keep your Ficus thriving and leaf-drop free 🌱 by using Greg's tailored watering and humidity alerts to create the perfect environment for your plant!
