Quck answer
Caring for an indoor fig tree requires attention to its watering, lighting, temperature, and pruning needs. Water the tree regularly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Place the tree in a bright location with indirect sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Maintain a temperature between 60-75В°F (15-24В°C), avoiding extreme hot or cold conditions. Prune the tree to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Fertilize the tree every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Regularly check for pests and treat accordingly. With proper care, your indoor fig tree will thrive and beautify your space.
Indoor fig trees (Ficus carica) can be a challenge to care for all year round since they typically lose their leaves and go dormant during autumn. Most varieties, with hardiness ranging from U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 to 10, also become too big for indoor environments. The only exception is the ‘Petite Negra’ dwarf fig, which is capable of keeping its leaves during winter indoors, producing fruit while still maintaining a petite size.
Selecting a Fig Variety
The Ficus carica “Petite Negra,” a perennial plant that grows in USDA zones 8 to 10, may produce fruit when it is just one foot tall. Also known as “Black Jack” or “Petite Negri,” it can grow to be 8 to 10 feet tall but will not exceed 3 feet when raised as a houseplant. The self-pollinating plant produces medium to large dark purple fruits with red flesh, typically in early summer and early autumn.
Choosing the Right Growing Conditions
To keep your fig tree growing all year round, place it in a spot where it can receive at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day, preferably in front of a south-facing window. It should also be kept at a temperature of no less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. A mature tree will require a pot with drainage holes that is 18 inches in diameter, preferably filled with a slightly gritty mix, such as 2 parts organic potting soil and 1 part fine gravel. If your plant is not yet mature, start it off in a smaller pot and work your way up, as it fruits best when the roots are slightly constricted.
During the growing season, from spring to fall, water the fig tree whenever the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. Feed it every two weeks during that time period with a balanced plant food, such as 20-20-20, by combining 1/2 teaspoon of the crystals with 1 gallon of water. Do not feed the fig tree during winter and reduce watering somewhat during that time, but never let the soil dry out completely.
Pruning the Fig Tree
If your fig tree grows lanky during winter, you can prune it back in early spring before it starts producing new growth. However, keep in mind that such pruning might remove some of the small pea-sized fruits that may or may not have formed in the leaf axils during the previous autumn.
If you decide to proceed, clean your pruning shears with rubbing alcohol and cut the tree to the desired shape. For figs, it is better to thin an overlong shoot rather than trim it by pruning it back to within 2 inches of its base.
Although some of the smaller early summer crop, which is produced on old wood, may be lost, additional fruits will form on the new growth stimulated by the pruning. Those fruits should ripen in early autumn.
Getting Rid of Fig Tree Pests
When grown indoors, a fig tree may be infested by spider mites, which are tiny spider-like insects that are hard to see without a magnifying glass. They cause the foliage to have a mottled appearance and sometimes spin webs beneath it. Scale insects can create waxy brown bumps on the plant’s stems and the undersides of its leaves, along with a sticky substance often referred to as honeydew.
How to Get Rid of Spider Mites or Scale on Plants
If you are dealing with spider mites or scale on your plants, there is a natural solution that can help you get rid of them. All you need is pure neem oil, mild dish detergent, and water.
To create the mixture, mix 2 tablespoons of pure neem oil and 1 1/2 teaspoons of mild dish detergent with 1 gallon of water. Once you have the mixture, put on goggles and a respirator to protect yourself and then spray the plant thoroughly.
For spider mites, repeat the oil treatment one week later. For scale, apply the mixture once every two weeks for two months.
FAQ
1. How often should I water my indoor fig tree?
Indoor fig trees prefer to be kept evenly moist, so it is important to water them regularly. Check the moisture level of the soil by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. In general, water your indoor fig tree every 7-10 days, but adjust the frequency based on the humidity and temperature of your home.
2. Should I fertilize my indoor fig tree?
Yes, fertilizing your indoor fig tree is important to keep it healthy and promote growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct dosage. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the tree is dormant.
3. How much light does an indoor fig tree need?
Indoor fig trees thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your tree near a sunny window where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. If your home doesn’t have adequate natural light, you can supplement with artificial grow lights to ensure your fig tree gets the light it needs.
4. Can I prune my indoor fig tree?
Yes, pruning is beneficial for indoor fig trees to maintain their shape and promote new growth. Prune your tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any overgrown branches to maintain a compact shape. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the tree.
5. Does my indoor fig tree need humidity?
Indoor fig trees appreciate higher humidity levels, especially during the winter months when indoor air tends to be drier. You can increase humidity around your fig tree by placing a tray filled with water and pebbles near the tree. As the water evaporates, it will increase the moisture in the air. Alternatively, you can use a humidifier in the room where your tree is located.
6. What should I do if my indoor fig tree drops its leaves?
If your indoor fig tree drops its leaves, it may be a sign of stress or a change in its environment. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule if necessary. Ensure your tree is receiving adequate light and that the temperature is suitable. Avoid placing the tree near drafts or vents. With proper care and adjustments, your fig tree should recover and regrow its leaves.
7. Can I propagate my indoor fig tree?
Yes, you can propagate your indoor fig tree through stem cuttings. Take a 6-8 inch long cutting from a healthy branch and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting warm and moist, and roots should develop within a few weeks. Once rooted, you can transfer the cutting to a larger pot and care for it as you would a mature fig tree.