How to Remove Fungus From Ficus Benjamina

If your ficus develops powdery mildew on the leaves, here is a non-toxic home remedy that will take care of the problem.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Gravel
• Spray Bottles
• Baking Soda

1. Make a solution of 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon oil, mixed in 1 quart of warm water. Use horticultural oil or even cooking oil.

2. Spray the tree every 10 - 12 days with the solution until there is no longer any sign of the powdery mildew.

3. Place the tree outside in a protected, shady location and give it a shower. Do not leave it out overnight unless all danger of frost is past.

Tips & Warnings

• Provide plenty of air circulation for ficus trees. Avoid crowding them with other plants unless they can tower above them. Ficus plants need plenty of air moving through the leaves to prevent fungus disease.

• A ficus tree wants to live in a tropical jungle, not the dry climate inside your home. The closer you can come to imitating the jungle climate, the less trouble you will have with your tree.

• Ficus appreciate a summer vacation outdoors in a protected spot. Bring them back in long before cold weather sets in.

• Do not allow ficus to sit in water. Remove the water from the saucer after watering or place gravel in the saucer to make a humidity tray.