3 Main Reasons Why Ficus Leaves May Be Turning Brown

Ficus benjamina is a tropical shrub used to lots of sunshine and humidity. Naturally growing for up to 50 ft tall this plant is extremely unpretentious. Growing it at home is very easy. Although it will not grow as tall and it is not likely to have an aerial root system or any fruit you still get a beautiful natural decoration for the room and a natural air purifier.

Domestic potted ficusses might be smaller and thinner with less foliage but they are just as beautiful. Choose any breed you like as the variety of shapes, sizes and variegated leaves is really huge. It does not matter whether you pick the traditional ficus benjamina or its modern cultivar. The basic care principles are similar, all plants want water, sunshine and warmth. If you have noticed leaves turning brown on your shrub - take an immediate action as the more you wait the weaker the tree gets.  

Unfavorable Conditions for Growing Ficusses

No need to panic. Relax and concentrate on finding the main reason why the leaves are going brown and falling off. First of all remember that it is natural for the plant to shed a few leaves during the change of season when the active growth stops. But those leaves will be green and not brown. The further from the main plant’s waterways the leaf is the more chances of it dropping because of the lack of moisture.

Let us go over the main factors that can cause the tree to fade:

1. Check the watering scheme. Most likely the plant is feeling thirsty and the soil mix in the pot is completely dry. In that case fill the water tub with distilled lukewarm water and place the pot in it. Make sure the soil gets completely soaked in water. From now on water the plant every few days as the surface of the pot dries out.
2. Make sure the roots have enough space. If the roots are stifled together they are not able to soak in enough moisture. If you have not repotted if for more than two years perhaps it is time to? Prune the roots by up to one third to get rid of the root binds.
3. Saline soil is another indirect cause. If you are using tap water it can lead to the leaves fading. Can you see a white crust on the soil surface? Too much salt settles in the soil suffocating the roots. You will have to wash the soil through, take it out and water the pot well for a few times allowing the water to come out through the bottom hole. Use distilled water for rinsing and watering the plant.

So what is the problem with your ficus? Now that you can figure it out remember not to flood it with water. Make it a habit to check the soil every few days this way you will not forget to water it.

Preventing the Plant Diseases

But you have to carry out pruning once the issue is solved. Cut off the dry and damaged branches this way you will leave less boughs and more space to grow. But do not cut off more than a third of the tree. Cut next to the growth node so leaves will cover the cuts.

We really hope you will not have to deal with plants issues ever again and your ficus benjamina leaves will be as luscious as ever. Come back to us if you need any more plant care tips.