How to Care for a Trailing Ficus
The trailing ficus (Ficus sagittata) is a member of the fig family. Like its better-known cousin F. elastica, this plant features attractive, sometimes variegated foliage, and is commonly grown as a houseplant. The trailing ficus has long, drooping branches covered with small, delicate leaves and looks attractive when grown in a hanging basket. Care requirements for this plant are similar to other ficus species, according to Bonsai Clubs International, other than it is more sensitive to under-watering and over-watering due to its 2 to 3-inch-long, paper-thin leaves.
Plant your trailing ficus in well-draining soil. Commercial potting soil that includes peat moss and organic matter is a good choice. Use a container that has a drainage hole and a water-catch tray.
- The trailing ficus (Ficus sagittata) is a member of the fig family.
- Care requirements for this plant are similar to other ficus species, according to Bonsai Clubs International, other than it is more sensitive to under-watering and over-watering due to its 2 to 3-inch-long, paper-thin leaves.
Set the plant in a location where it will receive bright but indirect sunlight, such as near a curtained or south-facing window. Trailing ficus plants need to be exposed to at least six hours of sunlight each day.
Water carefully. The key is consistency, according to the University of Illinois Extension. Soil that alternates between very wet and very dry will fool the plant into thinking that it is entering periods of drought, which will cause it to drop its leaves. Keep the soil barely moist at all times. Other ficus plants can dry out a bit between each watering because they have thick leaves, but not so the trailing ficus.
- Set the plant in a location where it will receive bright but indirect sunlight, such as near a curtained or south-facing window.
- Other ficus plants can dry out a bit between each watering because they have thick leaves, but not so the trailing ficus.
Feed your trailing ficus every two weeks during the growing season (spring through summer) with a half-dose of fertilizer formulated for indoor foliage plants. Follow directions for application as suggested on the label for the size of your plant. Limit feedings to once a month in the winter.
Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp rag, rinse the plant with a hose. This will rid the foliage of dust and any insect pests, such as the common spider mite, that might be hiding under the leaves.
