How to Care for Your Ficus religiosa (Sacred Fig)

The Ficus religiosa, commonly known as Sacred Fig, is an elegant indoor tree recognized for its heart shaped leaves and gently drooping growth habit. It has a graceful, airy presence and develops more character as its trunk and branching mature. With bright interior conditions, steady care, and a consistent location, this species grows into a refined, meaningful statement plant with a long cultural history and a timeless silhouette.

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright interior light with steady daily illumination
• Strong light supports fuller leaf production and balanced branching
• Keep the plant in one stable location so it can adjust and settle comfortably

Watering Schedule

• Allow the soil to dry at least halfway down before watering again
• Drying speed varies with seasonal changes and indoor conditions
• Water slowly and evenly so the soil hydrates without becoming overly heavy
• Always check below the surface with your finger or a moisture meter rather than watering on a schedule

How to Understand Watering Needs

• Sacred Fig appreciates a predictable rhythm of drying between waterings
• Slight leaf drooping or reduced firmness signals the soil has fully dried
• Yellowing leaves may indicate watering too frequently
• Steady dry periods support strong roots and healthy long term growth

Fertilizer Tips

• Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pause fertilizing during fall and winter when growth slows
• Gentle, consistent feeding maintains leaf vibrancy and branching strength

Trimming and Pruning

• Prune to refine shape or keep the tree at a manageable size
• Make clean cuts above a node to encourage branching
• Remove aging or damaged leaves to maintain a polished canopy
• Light grooming keeps the structure airy, balanced, and elegant

Pest Control and Identifying Issues

• Inspect regularly for spider mites, scale, and mealybugs
• Spider mites appear as fine webbing or tiny moving dots
• Mealybugs show as white cottony clusters in leaf joints
• Scale looks like small rounded bumps attached to stems
• Treat pests using neem oil or insecticidal soap until fully resolved
• Support recovery with clean foliage, stable watering rhythms, and good airflow
• Early detection prevents spread and keeps foliage healthy

Common Issues

• Leaf drop: Often caused by relocation or environmental changes
• Yellowing leaves: Typically linked to watering too frequently
• Crispy leaf edges: Can result from low humidity or prolonged dryness
• Dust buildup: Wipe leaves gently to support photosynthesis

Repotting Notes

• Repot every two to three years or once roots fill the vessel
• Use a structured indoor potting mix with balanced aeration
• Repot in spring so the plant can adjust during active growth

Lifespan and Growth

Ficus religiosa grows steadily indoors, developing its signature heart shaped leaves and graceful branching pattern over time. With patience and consistency, it becomes a long lived, symbolic indoor tree that brings height, movement, and meaning to bright interior spaces.

Quick Tips at a Glance

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