In the spring, when all the plants wake up and begin to bloom and turn green, the Benjamin ficus suddenly decides to shed its leaves.
It is impossible to say that this happens by itself. The plant has at least 5 reasons for this, based on the reaction to the stress caused. Can this be stopped?
Why does a ficus tree shed its leaves?
In autumn and winter, what is happening can be called a natural process, but not in spring. If the leaves are not falling en masse, then you don’t have to worry. Otherwise, you need to look for the reasons.
1. Lack of light
A dark corner where the ficus grew and a sharp increase in daylight hours can provoke the same consequences. In addition, direct sunlight can cause burns. Therefore, the ideal place for a ficus is a small distance from a window facing the sunny side.
2. Air humidity
If it is low, which often happens in winter during the heating season, then it will not be easy for the ficus to survive in such conditions. As a result - spring leaf fall. Move the plant away from heating devices, place a humidifier closer to it or spray the crown with a spray bottle during the winter.
3. Change of places
Moving from one room to another is already stressful for the plant. Therefore, if the leaves do not stop falling within 2-3 weeks after the move, it is better to return the ficus to its old place.
4. Abundant watering
Abundant watering is considered correct only if it is not done often. It is advisable to water the ficus after the top layer of soil has dried out. Over-moistened soil is only harmful to it.
5. Top dressing
In winter, the ficus is dormant and therefore does not need additional feeding. But with the onset of warm weather, normal development and growth will not occur if the soil lacks something. Fertilizers for ficus, palms and dracaenas are used. In this case, it is better to refuse folk remedies.