Ficus is a stylish yet demanding houseplant that can enhance any interior with its bright green leaves. However, many owners face the issue of their ficus not growing or its development significantly slowing down. In this article, we will explore the main reasons why a ficus may not grow (or not stretch upwards as expected) and share effective tips for its care and solutions to potential problems.
Why the ficus is not growing: main factors
1. Lack of light
Ficuses love bright but diffused sunlight. Placing the pot in a too dark corner or, conversely, under direct sunlight leads to slowed growth, pale leaves, or the appearance of burns.
- Signs: leaves become smaller or lose their vibrant color, the stem stretches.
- Solution: choose a well-lit place with diffused light, avoiding direct sunlight during midday. Periodically rotate the pot so that the ficus develops evenly from all sides.
2. Improper watering
Too much water or, conversely, drying out the soil can cause serious root problems, which immediately affects growth.
- Signs: yellow or brown spots on the leaves, root rot, leaf drop.
- Solution: check the soil moisture at a depth of 2-3 cm; water the ficus when the top layer dries out. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering.
3. Inappropriate temperature
Ficus originates from tropical regions, so it loves warmth and stable conditions without sharp fluctuations.
- Signs: leaves turn yellow and drop, or the plant “freezes” (does not grow but does not die).
- Solution: maintain a temperature between 18–24°C. Avoid drafts and proximity to air conditioners or heating devices.
4. Lack of nutrients
A deficiency of fertilizers (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.) leads to weak growth and a dull appearance.
- Signs: leaves lose color, light streaks or even small spots appear.
- Solution: regularly apply complex fertilizers (special for ficuses or universal for houseplants) during the active growing season (spring-summer) every 2-3 weeks.
5. Inappropriate pot or soil
A pot that is too small hinders root development, while unsuitable soil can retain water and cause stagnation.
- Signs: roots come out of drainage holes, slow growth, frequent drying out or, conversely, excessive moisture.
- Solution: choose a pot that is 2-5 cm larger in diameter than the previous one, and use well-drained soil.
Below is a useful table that will help quickly identify the reasons for poor ficus growth and ways to resolve them:
| Reason | Signs | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Insufficient light | Small, pale leaves, elongated stem | Move to a brighter place, avoiding direct scorching rays |
| Watering regime violation | Yellow/brown spots, leaf drop, root rot | Monitor soil moisture, ensure drainage |
| Low/unsteady temperature | Growth stagnation, yellowing and dropping leaves | Keep within 18–24°C, avoid drafts |
| Lack of nutrients | Dull leaves, slow growth, chlorosis (light spots) | Fertilize with specialized or universal fertilizers |
| Unsuitable pot or soil | Roots “coming out” outside, water stagnation in the pot, rot | Choose a pot 2–5 cm larger, use a light, well-drained substrate |
Improper watering: the main threat to roots
Watering the ficus is not just a routine, but one of the most important aspects of care. Excess moisture leads to root rot, while a lack of it results in a wilting appearance and leaf drop.
Main rules for watering the ficus:
- Soil check
Insert your finger or use a moisture meter to determine the state of the top layer (2-3 cm). If it is dry, it’s time to water. - Seasonal dependence
- In summer, the ficus actively grows, so its water needs are higher.
- In winter, growth slows down, so water less frequently.
- Water quality
Ideally, use settled or filtered water at room temperature. Cold or chlorinated water can damage the root system. - Drainage
The pot must have holes at the bottom, and a layer of expanded clay or gravel should be placed at the bottom to avoid water stagnation.
Choosing a pot and soil: comfort for the roots
A properly selected pot and quality substrate are the key to active ficus growth.
- Pot size. If the roots have taken up all the space, the ficus stops growing or suffers from crowding. The optimal increase is 2–5 cm larger in diameter compared to the previous one.
- Pot material. Clay and ceramic pots allow air to pass through better but evaporate moisture faster. Plastic pots are cheaper and lighter, but they can retain excess water, so you need to monitor watering more carefully.
- Soil. Ficus prefers light and well-drained soil. You can mix sandy soil, leaf soil, perlite, and expanded clay.
Here is an example of a simple mixture option:
| Component | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Sandy soil | 40% |
| Perlite or vermiculite | 20% |
| Leaf soil | 30% |
| Expanded clay (small) | 10% |
This mixture will provide an optimal balance of moisture and air in the root zone.
Lighting: one of the most important factors
In conditions of insufficient lighting, the ficus may stretch, become fragile, and its leaves may become smaller and yellow. On the other hand, direct sunlight (especially in hot summer) can cause burns on the leaves.
- Ideal place: a bright room with diffused rays (for example, behind a curtain).
- Rotating the pot: to ensure the ficus crown develops evenly, rotate the pot 90° every 1-2 weeks.
- Artificial lighting: in dark months, use phytolamps or LED lamps with a wide spectrum, placed 30-45 cm away from the plant.
Temperature and humidity: balance for health
Optimal temperature range: from 18°C to 24°C.
- Low temperature: leads to slowed growth, yellowing, and leaf drop.
- Too high temperature (from 27-30°C and above) can dry out the air and soil, stressing the plant.
Avoid sharp fluctuations and drafts – they can cause serious harm to the plant. In winter, when heating is on, the air becomes too dry, so:
- Regularly mist the leaves with room temperature water.
- Use a humidifier or place a tray with water or moist expanded clay under the pot.
Nutrients: feeding for active growth
If the ficus does not receive enough micro- and macroelements, it either does not grow at all or develops very slowly and looks “stressed.”
- Nitrogen (N): responsible for lush green leaves.
- Phosphorus (P): strengthens the root system and helps in flower formation.
- Potassium (K): improves the plant’s immunity, making leaves more resistant to diseases.
- Microelements (Fe, Mg, Mn, Zn, B, etc.): participate in photosynthesis and other vital processes.
Feeding schedule:
- Spring-summer: every 2-3 weeks apply liquid fertilizers.
- Autumn-winter: once every 1-2 months or completely refrain from feeding if the ficus is “resting.”
The main thing is to not overdo it. Excess fertilizers lead to soil salinization and harm the roots.
Care tips for ficus
- Monitor watering
Check the dryness of the soil, considering seasonality and room temperature. - Ensure proper lighting
Bright, diffused light is the ideal option. Avoid direct sunlight at noon. - Control temperature and humidity
Make sure there are no drafts and sharp fluctuations from heaters or air conditioners. - Regularly fertilize
Use specialized fertilizers with the appropriate content of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). - Repot as needed
If the roots are cramped, the ficus stops its growth. Choose a new pot with drainage holes and use quality soil. - Mist the leaves
Maintain proper humidity, especially during the heating season. - Watch for changes
Any sudden leaf loss, spots, or pests are signals for your reaction.
When to consult a specialist
- If the ficus is sick: spots appear, leaves drop, and home remedies do not help.
- If you suspect the plant is affected by pests (spider mites, scale insects, etc.).
- If the plant has been “frozen” for a long time and no changes in care yield results.
- If you wish for professional diagnostics: an agronomist or a specialist in a flower shop can recommend more specific fertilizers or remedies for diseases.
FAQ: frequently asked questions
- Why does the ficus not grow upwards, but only produces new shoots from the side?
The most common reason is insufficient lighting at the top or a lack of nutrients. Try moving the ficus to a place with better lighting and adding fertilizers that contain more nitrogen. - Where does the ficus grow better: in a sunny or shaded room?
The ficus thrives best in a bright room with diffused lighting. In deep shade, it grows slowly and loses its decorative appeal, while in scorching sun, burns may appear. - How often should the ficus be repotted?
Usually once every 2-3 years or if the roots start coming out through the drainage holes. When repotting, choose a pot that is 2-5 cm larger in diameter and ensure drainage. - Why does the ficus drop leaves after purchase or rearrangement?
This is a normal reaction to changing conditions. The ficus is a plant sensitive to movement, changes in lighting, and humidity. Provide stable care, and over time it will recover. - Can I prune the ficus to help it grow better?
Yes, shaping pruning stimulates the growth of new shoots and makes the crown denser. It is best to do this during the active growth period (late winter – early spring). - Is it necessary to mist the ficus leaves?
While it is not always necessary, misting helps maintain humidity, especially during the heating season. This promotes leaf health and prevents it from drying out. - How quickly does the ficus grow under normal conditions?
In favorable conditions, the ficus can add several centimeters in height each year, and some varieties even more. The growth rate depends on the species, care, and surrounding conditions.
In summary, the ficus is a wonderful houseplant that can turn into a true “green tree” in your home. But for this, it is necessary to properly select the conditions: light, humidity, temperature, and nutrients. If you take care of the plant comprehensively – ensure drainage, balanced watering, regular feeding, and avoid stressful situations, your ficus will generously reward you with lush and healthy growth.
We wish you success in growing your “capricious” but undoubtedly beautiful ficus!