Bengal Fig Tree, Ficus benghalensis 'Audrey'

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.