How can I rescue a dying ficus tree and feed it correctly?

1. 61

   Kelly Eatonposted 11 years ago

   How can I rescue a dying ficus tree and feed it correctly?
   
   The leaves have fallen off but the limbs are all green stick to nearly the end of each, and there are many on this 2 foot sad looking Charlie Brown sort of ficus tree. It's in a appropriately sized 12" pot but if it gets to live a while longer (with YOUR help!) I will have to repot it. I think the biggest problem has been a lack of food in the correct proportions for nitrogen,  phosphorus, etc. And I also need to know how to prune it correctly for optimal growth, then maintain it so it thrives and reaches it full beautiful potential.

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2. 72

   Kathleen Cochranposted 11 years ago

   Put it in a slightly bigger pot with fresh soil.  It may have picked up a disease.  Only water it once a week with liquid fertilizer mixed into the water. Prune it sparingly (about once a year) to keep it nicely shaped and to force new growth.   Make sure it is not in a warm or cold draft.  These plants are cranky!  Good luck!

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   1. 61

      Kelly Eatonposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you so much! And cranky is for sure! :-)

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3. 62

   cat on a soapboxposted 11 years ago

   Ficus will drop its leaves whenever it is subject to change of any kind.. This could be a change in light or temperature ie. A/C or closing curtains or being moved to a different area of the house/patio. As long as the tips are green, it will fully recover. Water deeply once a week, fertilize with a slow release pellet food like osmocote 14-14-14. This will feed for 4 mos. Never let the plant sit in a saucer of water and make sure it gets good air circulation. Pruning need is minimal- just cutting old spindly twigs from the trunk. Be patient.  All the best!
   Cat:)

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