Ficus Audrey

Best Soil for Ficus Audrey

Ficus Benghalensis is not picky when it comes to soil. Any quality standard potting soil should do fine for growing these plants as long as the soil has ample drainage and aeration. Drainage may be improved by incorporating perlite and/or bark mix into the potting mixture you select. Ficus Audrey prefers soil that is slightly alkaline but will tolerate the higher acidity of standard potting mix. If you need to buy a potting mix, look for one that is slightly alkaline.

Ficus Audrey Fertilizer

Ficus Audrey will enjoy regular, light fertilizing during the growing season in warm-weather months. A light liquid fertilizer that is high in nitrogen is preferred to improve root and leaf production within the plant. Do not fertilize in winter during dormancy for the best ficus Audrey care.

Ficus Audrey Watering

The Ficus Audrey prefers to have slightly moist soil, but like with many other indoor houseplants, be careful to avoid overwatering. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry completely before rewatering. The leaves of Ficus Benghalensis also give us indicators as to when the plant needs a drink. The leaves will tend to curl inward when thirsty and will droop when there is an excess of moisture. 

Ficus Audrey Light Requirements

Ficus Audrey prefers bright indirect light. However, giving too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. A southern-facing window will suit Ficus Benghalensis quite nicely. If the plant’s colors begin to fade and the leaves start to wilt, you will know that the plant requires more sunlight. 

Ficus Audrey Temperature & Humidity

Ficus Audrey will appreciate being kept in a normal, room-temperature environment, between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit will result in leaf dropping. Humidity levels should be kept between 30 to 60 percent. If the air lacks sufficient humidity, Ficus Audrey will often lose leaves. This can be remedied by adding a pebble tray or a humidifier near the tree. Keep the Ficus away from drafts, air conditioners, and heaters. 

Repotting Ficus Audrey

Ficus Benghalensis does not require repotting frequently. Every two years is a good rule of thumb for repotting Ficus Audrey in a larger pot. When roots become visible through drainage holes, it has become root bound, and you may repot your Ficus right away. Select a container that is only slightly larger to prevent root shock. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting indoor plants.

Ficus Audrey Maintenance & Pruning

To maintain size and shape, trim the Ficus during winter dormancy. There is a higher rate of injury if pruned during the months where the plant is actively growing, so pruning in winter is best with Ficuses. Using sharp, clean shears, cut off the top of the plant which encourages branching, giving it a bushy appearance. You will want to wipe the dust off the leaves of this plant every so often so the plant can absorb all of the sunlight and nutrients it needs.

Propagating Ficus Audrey

Propagating of Ficus Benghalensis is easy and may be done by stem-tip cutting. Propagate during active growing months. To take a cutting, take clean, sharp shears and select a branch that is at least eight inches long with several leaves. Remove the branch by cutting at a 45-degree angle beneath the leaf node. Place this cutting in jar filled with clean water, ensuring that no leaves are submerged but the stem cuttings is touching the water. Rooting hormone may be used, but is not necessary. Place it in a low-lit indirect sunlight spot. In several weeks, the roots will have appeared and will have grown to be a couple of inches long. Transfer to a well-drained potting mix for establishment. Be aware that the sap excretions can cause allergic reactions if it comes in contact with your skin. Wearing gloves when you are propagating ficus Audrey is suggested. 

Ficus Audrey Toxicity

Ficuses leak a milky white sap from their stems. This sap, and therefore, Ficus Audrey is toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation. Exercise caution when handling this plant and keep it away from children and household pets.

Toxicity to Humans

Like most plants in the Ficus family, Ficus Benghalensis is considered toxic to humans and should never be ingested. The sap can cause allergic reactions when coming into contact with the skin. Utilize caution when handling the plant. Wear gloves and always wash hands after touching the plant.

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

Ficus Audrey is very toxic to pets. Ingestion may induce indigestion, vomiting, oral irritation, and other complications. If you suspect that your pet has ingested the plant, contact your veterinarian or call animal poison control. 

Ficus Audrey Problems

Ficus Audrey Leaves Turning Yellow

Yellow leaves is a common indicator that you are overwatering your Ficus. Ensure that your plant is not sitting in water and that the Ficus has adequate drainage holes in the pot and is planted in a well-draining soil mix.

Ficus Audrey Leaves Turning Brown

Leaves of Ficus Audrey will turn brown when the plant is not getting enough water or when the humidity level is too low. Additionally, a location that is too close to a heat source may cause brown edges. Brown leaves could also be an indicator of bacterial or fungal infection. Be sure the plant is getting enough water and moisture and lives in a spot where it can grow to its fullest potential.

Ficus Audrey Diseases

Ficus Audrey is known to suffer from fusarium wilt and root rot. These diseases can be treated with a fungicide.

Ficus Audrey Pests

The most common pests to affect Ficus Audrey are soil gnats and spider mites. A key to the prevention of pests is to not overwater the plant. If the plant is holding too much moisture, it becomes a breeding ground for pests. Using neem oil on affected areas of the ficus plant is a good way to get rid of these pests.

OTHER FICUS RESOURCES:

• Ficus Guides
• Other Ficus Plants
• Ficus Elastica Plant Guide
• Ficus Lyrata Plant Guide
• Ficus Alii Plant Guide