Ficus Benjamina - Why They Lose Leaves

Now you can learn the Secrets of Ficus Care Here.

Almost everyone that has ever purchased a Ficus tree (benjamina that is) has had to drag out the rake, broom or whatever to clean up the leaves that have dropped. 

Generally, when you ask a plant professional "Why" this happens you'll receive a short but simple answer - "It's acclimating". This is true, but a more complete answer will help you understand what is happening. 

Acclimating is normally pigeon holed as a matter of going from high light to lower light or vice-versa. With Ficus you need to know about it's background. Ficus is truly a creature of habit. 

Just as birds migrate south for the winter season, the benjamina comes from an area that has very distinct seasons. The exception is that the seasons are wet and dry.

How does a Ficus prepare for the dry season?

It sheds its leaves. It reduces the amount of leaves to survive because it will not have enough water to support them during the dry season. When the rains return, new growth comes out and the canopy returns.

The survival mechanism for benjamina is leaf drop. It doesn't like changes, it is a creature of habit. Once you have decided where you are going to place your Ficus (the more light the better), give it the same lighting, same amount of water and stay on the same schedule.

In case I didn't mention it, if you throw on some fertilizer you can also expect some leave drop.

Learn more about Ficus and their care with our "Ficus Care Guide."