Ficus Pumila White Sunny

Ficus pumila ‘White Sunny’ (Climbing Fig/Creeping Fig) Care Guide

Light

• Ideal Conditions: Ficus pumila ‘White Sunny’ prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some shade, but the white variegation on its leaves will be more vibrant with ample indirect sunlight.
• Avoid: Direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate leaves, especially the variegated portions.

Watering

• Watering Frequency: Water when the soil dries out. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. It prefers consistent moisture but doesn’t like sitting in soggy soil.
• Winter Care: Reduce watering during winter when the plant’s growth slows down, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.

Humidity

• Preferred Level: High humidity is ideal for Ficus pumila ‘White Sunny.’ It thrives in humid environments, making it a great choice for bathrooms or kitchens.
• Adaptability: It can adapt to average household humidity levels but may require extra humidity in very dry air. Misting the plant or using a humidity tray will help.

Temperature

• Ideal Range: 18–24°C. It prefers a warm environment and should be kept away from cold drafts.
• Avoid: Temperatures below 10°C can stress the plant and cause leaf drop.

Soil

• Best Soil Type: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix, ideally one formulated for aroids or houseplants. Adding perlite can improve drainage.

Fertilising

• Feeding Schedule: Fertilise monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser. Cut back on feeding during autumn and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Pruning

• How To Prune: Regular pruning is essential to keep Ficus pumila ‘White Sunny’ manageable, as it is a vigorous climber. Trim back any overly long or unruly vines to encourage a compact growth habit.
• Encouraging Bushier Growth: Pinch off growing tips to encourage denser foliage and bushier growth.

Ficus pumila ‘White Sunny’ Troubleshooting

Yellowing Leaves

• Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage is a common cause of yellowing leaves. Ensure the soil dries out between waterings, and the pot has good drainage.
• Solution: Adjust the watering routine and make sure the plant isn’t sitting in excess water.

Brown Leaf Edges

• Cause: Low humidity or inconsistent watering can lead to brown edges on the leaves.
• Solution: Increase humidity around the plant by misting or using a humidifier. Make sure the plant is watered regularly but not overwatered.

Leggy Growth

• Cause: Insufficient light can cause leggy growth as the plant stretches toward the light.
• Solution: Move the plant to a brighter location, making sure it gets plenty of indirect sunlight.

Variegation Fading

• Cause: If the variegation starts to fade and the leaves turn solid green, this is often due to too little light.
• Solution: Move the plant to an area with brighter, indirect light to restore the white variegation.

Pests

• Common Pests: Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can sometimes infest Ficus pumila ‘White Sunny.’
• Solution: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Root Rot

• Cause: Overwatering and poor drainage can lead to root rot.
• Solution: If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from its pot, trim off any affected roots, and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.

You can use this plant for your terrarium or kokedama!