Ficus Pumila Creeping Fig

Description

Ficus Pumila (Creeping Fig) Care Guide

Light: Creeping Fig thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. In brighter light, it will grow faster and remain more compact, while in lower light, it may grow more slowly and become leggy.

Water: This plant prefers consistently moist soil. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings, but avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as Ficus Pumila dislikes drought. Overwatering, however, should be avoided, as it can cause root rot.

Humidity: Ficus Pumila enjoys high humidity levels (60-70%). It will tolerate average indoor humidity but may benefit from occasional misting or placement near a humidifier, especially in drier environments.

Temperature: This plant prefers temperatures between 16-24°C. Avoid placing it in areas with drafts, cold air, or near air conditioning units, as it can suffer from temperature fluctuations.

Soil: Ficus Pumila can be grown in Highland Moss general houseplant mix or Maranta Calathea potting mix, both available on our website. These potting mixes offer the perfect balance of moisture retention and aeration, supporting healthy root growth.

Fertiliser: Feed Ficus Pumila with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in autumn and winter when growth slows.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot slightly larger than the previous one to support healthy growth.

Pruning: Prune regularly to control its size and shape. Ficus Pumila can grow quickly, so trimming helps maintain its desired appearance and prevents it from becoming too unruly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Yellowing Leaves:

• Cause: Overwatering or underwatering.
• Solution: Check the soil moisture. Adjust watering so the soil stays consistently moist but not soggy.

2. Leaf Drop:

• Cause: Sudden changes in temperature or drafts.
• Solution: Keep the plant in a stable environment with consistent temperatures and away from cold or hot drafts.

3. Browning Edges:

• Cause: Low humidity or underwatering.
• Solution: Increase humidity by misting the plant regularly or using a humidifier. Make sure to maintain consistent moisture in the soil.

4. Leggy Growth:

• Cause: Insufficient light.
• Solution: Move the plant to a brighter spot with indirect light to encourage more compact and dense growth.

5. Pests (Spider Mites, Mealybugs):

• Cause: Dry conditions or exposure to pests.
• Solution: Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap and inspect the plant regularly for early signs of pests.

Ficus Pumila (Creeping Fig) is an excellent choice for plant lovers looking for a fast-growing, air-purifying plant that adapts well to various indoor conditions. Whether cascading from a hanging basket or climbing a trellis, this versatile plant will thrive with minimal care, adding beauty and greenery to your space.