Your Audrey fig tree care guide
This beauty is the national tree of India. And you’ll find that it goes by many names – like Ficus benghalensis, the bayan tree or the Bengal Fig. We know what you’re thinking, and yours likely won’t sprout lovely figs over time. But it will reward your care with lots of velvety leaves.
How to care for an Audrey fig tree
Make sure it gets plenty of sunlight
Audrey fig trees love bright, indirect light. So pop yours close to a sunny window. Avoid direct sunlight though – this may be too strong and scorch the leaves.
Water your fig tree thoroughly
Your plant will need a good drink when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. You can check this by sticking your finger directly into the soil. Water it thoroughly until water runs out of the bottom. Your choice of pot will need to have plenty of drainage holes, otherwise you’ll waterlog your plant.
Expose it to plenty of humidity
Audrey fig trees are native to India. So it’s no surprise they prefer moderate to high humidity. Give your plant the extra moisture it craves by misting the leaves regularly. Or, if the air is especially dry (i.e. during winter), use a humidifier.
Give it a monthly feed
Fertiliser will help your plant thrive. Give it a monthly feed during growing season (March to September) using a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser. Mix this into water and pour evenly over the soil.
Prune any wilted leaves
Pruning also helps to keep the plant’s shape. Grab some clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and trim back to just above a node (where a leaf meets the stem).
Keep away from curious hands and paws
These plants are toxic to humans and pets. So don’t let any kids or pets nibble on them as it will make them unwell.
What are the signs of an unhappy Audrey fig tree?
Dropped leaves
A few things could be causing this: over or underwatering, or shock. Have a look at how often you’re watering your plant. Only give it a drink when the top inches of soil feel dry. If you don’t think that’s the reason, it could be because you’ve moved it somewhere new recently. Make sure it’s not in a low-light spot or caught in any draughts.
Leggy branches or slow growth
Both are signs of a lack of light. Make sure your plant is somewhere it’ll get several hours of bright, indirect sunlight.
Yellowing leaves
Again, this may be caused by multiple things: overwatering or a lack of nutrients. Audrey fig trees only need water when their soil starts to feel dry. Remember to mix a few drops of fertiliser into its water monthly too.
Bugs
Watch out for spider mites, scale, and mealybugs. These pesky bugs love Audrey fig trees as much as we do. To get rid of them, grab some non-toxic insecticidal soap or neem oil and dilute it in a spray bottle with some water. Spray the mixture anywhere you notice the bugs, including the underside of the leaves (where they like to hide!).
Do I need to repot my Audrey fig tree?
You’ll only need to repot your Audrey fig tree every two to three years or so. If you notice its roots peeking out the bottom of the pot, that’s your sign.
The best time to repot your plant is during growing season (spring or early summer).
1. Choose a pot with drainage holes that’s slightly larger than the current one. Then fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of well-draining potting mix.
2. Remove your Audrey fig tree from its original pot by gently tipping it on its side and pulling it out by its trunk.
3. Pop your plant in the centre of the new pot and fill around its roots with the new potting mix, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.
4. Finish by lightly watering the soil.