The weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is a low-maintenance, attractive plant that is popular for use indoors. Occasionally, the several trunks of a weeping fig are braided while they are young and pliable. As the tree grows, the braided trunks grow together into a permanent braid that appears as a single large trunk. While braided ficus are most commonly grown as houseplants, they can be grown outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 12. In nature, weeping figs can grow up to 50 feet tall, but braided ficus houseplants are 2 to 10 feet tall.
Water the ficus every four to seven days, when the top of the soil starts to feel dry. Let the water run until it drains out the bottom of the pot. Do not allow the soil to dry out.
Place the ficus in a window that gets bright, indirect sunlight at least six hours a day. Turn the plant occasionally to keep the side nearest the window from having an excess of growth.
Fertilize once a month with general-purpose fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Only fertilize during times when the ficus is actively growing. Growing periods will be noticeable, as new leaves will appear and branches will get longer.
Prune the tree as needed to shape the canopy or remove dead branches. Cut dead branches back the the branch collar. Make pruning cuts for shape just above a bud or leaf node to promote new growth.
Watch for yellowing or falling leaves. These may indicate too much water, too little water, or too much or too little sunlight. Check the soil for watering needs. Try placing the plant in a new window for a couple weeks to see if the leaf drop stops. Ficus are also prone to dropping leaves when they are moved to a new environment.
Things You Will Need
- General-purpose fertilizer
- Pruning shears
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