did you know?

The genus includes more than 800 trees, shrubs, and vines native to the tropics and subtropics. Many, such as the weeping fig the rubber tree and the fiddle-leaf fig make excellent houseplants.

general maintenance:

Groom plants by removing yellowed foliage. Mist occasionally, or set pots on a pebble-lined tray filled with water for extra humidity. Repot when plant becomes root bound, about every 2 years. Occasionally dust leaves with a clean, soft cloth.

pests/diseases:

Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects may occur. Phomopsis (a fungus) dieback can be a problem with weeping fig.

controls:

Control mealybugs and spider mites with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, following label directions. To deter spider mites, mist frequently to increase humidity. To control scale, remove with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, remove infested leaves or branches, or spray horticultural oil, following label directions.

how to sow/plant:

Start with established plants or divisions in well-drained potting mix. If repotting, set plants at same depth they grew in previous pot. The soil level should be 1/2 to 1 inch below rim of pot to provide a water reservoir when watering.

water and fertilize:

In spring to fall, water thoroughly when soil surface is dry to touch. During growing season, regularly apply fertilizer formulated for houseplants, following label directions. Stop fertilizing in winter, when the plant is resting, and resume in spring as days lengthen.

garden hint:

When handling weeping fig, beware of its milky sap, which can irritate skin.

features:

• Shade Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Indoors

other uses: