Troubleshooting
Ficus microcarpa problems — and how to fix them
Ficus microcarpa (Ficus microcarpa) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Sudden leaf drop
Usually a reaction to a move, draught, or a swing in light, temperature or watering. Stabilise its location and conditions; it typically re-foliates once settled.
Latex bleeding from cuts
Pruning wounds ooze sticky white latex. Seal larger cuts and keep the irritant sap off skin, eyes and pets.
Scale and mealybugs
Sap-sucking pests hide on leaf undersides and in leaf axils, leaving sticky honeydew and sooty mould. Wipe off and treat with horticultural soap or oil.
Pale, oversized leaves
A sign of too little light; growth stretches and internodes lengthen. Move to a brighter position to restore compact, dark foliage.
Prevent ficus microcarpa problems before they start
Most ficus microcarpa issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for ficus microcarpa in general rather than its problems? Read the full ficus microcarpa care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Ficus microcarpa problems — FAQ
Why is my ficus microcarpa sudden leaf drop?
Usually a reaction to a move, draught, or a swing in light, temperature or watering. Stabilise its location and conditions; it typically re-foliates once settled.
Why is my ficus microcarpa latex bleeding from cuts?
Pruning wounds ooze sticky white latex. Seal larger cuts and keep the irritant sap off skin, eyes and pets.
Why is my ficus microcarpa scale and mealybugs?
Sap-sucking pests hide on leaf undersides and in leaf axils, leaving sticky honeydew and sooty mould. Wipe off and treat with horticultural soap or oil.
Why is my ficus microcarpa pale, oversized leaves?
A sign of too little light; growth stretches and internodes lengthen. Move to a brighter position to restore compact, dark foliage.