Caring for a Bengal Fig Tree (Ficus benghalensis 'Audrey') involves understanding its basic needs in terms of light, water, soil, humidity, and more. Here’s a detailed care guide to help keep your plant healthy:
1. Light Requirements
- Bright, indirect light is ideal. The Bengal Fig thrives in bright environments but doesn’t like direct sunlight for prolonged periods as it can burn the leaves. A spot near an east or west-facing window would be perfect.
- If it doesn’t get enough light, its growth may slow down, and it may become leggy.
2. Watering
- Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry. Use your finger to check the soil before watering.
- Be cautious of overwatering, as Ficus trees don’t like sitting in waterlogged soil. Always ensure that the pot has proper drainage.
- During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, but reduce watering in autumn and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
3. Soil
- The Bengal Fig prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can use a standard potting mix with added perlite or sand for improved drainage.
- A mix of potting soil, peat, and perlite is a good option to keep the roots healthy.
4. Humidity
- This plant prefers a humid environment. While it can tolerate average household humidity, it thrives better when the air is more humid.
- If the air is too dry, misting the leaves or using a humidifier can help, especially during the winter months.
5. Temperature
- It prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
- Protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause stress or leaf drop.
6. Fertilising
- During the growing season, you can fertilise every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser. A 10-10-10 formula works well.
- Skip fertilising in the autumn and winter when the plant is not actively growing.
7. Pruning
- Prune as necessary to maintain shape or remove leggy growth. Trim back any dead or yellowing leaves, and you can pinch off new growth to encourage a bushier shape.
- Always use clean, sharp pruning tools to prevent disease.
8. Repotting
- Repot the Ficus Audrey every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound, usually in spring. When repotting, choose a pot that is 3-5cm larger in diameter than the current one.
- Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
9. Pests
- Watch out for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. If detected, you can treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Regularly check the undersides of leaves for signs of infestation.
10. Toxicity
- Ficus Audrey is toxic to pets (cats and dogs), so it’s important to keep it out of reach of pets and children.
