Question
My weeping fig tree (Ficus benjamina) was moved for the second time in July and is in a bad way. What can I do to help it acclimatize and regain its vigor? What’s more, it’s about 1.5 m (5 feet) from a west-facing window. Is this enough light?
Answer
It’s never too late to help a weeping fig tree acclimatize after a move! When a Ficus benjamina changes location, it often undergoes stress, causing many of its leaves to fall off. To minimize this reaction, a simple solution is to create a mini greenhouse around the plant to maintain high humidity. You can place a large transparent plastic bag around the tree, taking care not to squeeze the bag too tightly to let the plant breathe. In this increased humidity, the plant will retain more leaves and be able to concentrate on adapting to its new light environment.
Once new leaves start to appear, this indicates that the fig tree has adapted well to the change in light. To gradually acclimatize it to the room’s ambient humidity, poke a small hole in the bag every day, for example with a pencil. By slowly enlarging the openings, you’ll allow the plant to acclimatize to lower humidity levels. Once the bag is sufficiently perforated or tears on its own, you can remove it completely.
Location
As for the location 1.5 m (5 feet) from a west-facing window, this should be sufficient to meet your fig tree’s light requirements. Ficus benjamina is an adaptable plant, able to tolerate moderate to high light levels, so it should adjust well to this exposure. However, be sure to maintain regular watering, especially during its acclimatization period, and watch for any signs of stress to adjust care as necessary.
Larry Hodgson published thousands of articles and 65 books over the course of his career, in both French and English. His son, Mathieu, has made it his mission to make his father’s writings accessible to the public. This text was originally published in Le Soleil.
I have an outdoor fig. Doing pretty well, about 10 ft tall. Wondering if it will likely cause problems in the next few-who knows years with roots as it is quite close to foundation, Stupid place to put it I know. Also, since it is well established do I still need to water it ? I live in so cal, so figure only occ in summer? Been watering it more, but wondering if it’s necessary and water expensive!
Gee, I think I would rather just let the tree partially defoliate and then refoliate than contend with it wrapped in plastic for much of that time.
I miss Larry. His suggestion to create a “Mini Greenhouse” with a plastic bag is brilliant. It has helped a number of my Rex begonias live through very dry indoor NH winters in order to enjoy their summers again outside.