Ficus Care Guide

🌿 Ficus (Rubber Tree) Care Guide

(Ficus elastica — Burgundy, Tineke, Ruby, etc.)

🌤️ Light

Prefers bright, indirect light.

Can tolerate medium light, but growth will slow.

Variegated types (Tineke, Ruby) need brighter light to maintain color.

Avoid harsh direct sun — can scorch leaves.

💧 Water

Water when the top 2–3 inches of soil are dry.

Likes a consistent routine but does not tolerate soggy soil.

Overwatering = yellowing, leaf drop, root rot.

Underwatering = drooping or curling leaves.

💨 Humidity

Average home humidity (40–60%) is fine.

Higher humidity helps with larger, glossier leaves.

🌡️ Temperature

Ideal range: 65–85°F.

Sensitive to cold drafts and sudden changes — can trigger leaf drop.

🪴 Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining mix:

potting soil

perlite or pumice

orchid bark (optional for airflow)

Repot every 1–2 years or when rootbound.

Ensure pots have proper drainage.

🌱 Growth & Structure

Upright, tree-like growth.

Can grow tall — prune to control height and encourage branching.

Rotate regularly to prevent leaning toward light.

⚠️ Troubleshooting

Leaf drop

Common with environmental changes (light, temp, location).

Also caused by overwatering or drafts.

Yellow leaves

Usually overwatering or poor drainage.

Brown spots or edges

Can be from inconsistent watering, low humidity, or water quality.

Leaves curling inward

Often underwatering or temperature stress.

✨ Quick Care Tips

Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and improve light absorption ✨

Keep in a stable environment — they don’t like to be moved often

Bright light = faster growth and larger leaves

Slightly forgiving, but thrives with consistency