Ficus Leaf Curl/New Growth - Ask Extension
I have a broad leaf Ficus and for the last month or so have been getting leaf curl with all the new growth. What would be the cause for this? The tree...
Knowledgebase
Ficus Leaf Curl/New Growth #153161
Asked September 17, 2013, 6:40 PM EDT
I have a broad leaf Ficus and for the last month or so have been getting leaf curl with all the new growth. What would be the cause for this? The tree is looking a little weird right now. I have not noticed any insect infestation, like scale etc. Thank you!
Clark County Washington
Expert Response
Hard to tell from just your description. Bug problems would be the first guess as they will get scale insects or spider mites. They are also very sensitive to changes in air temperature or drafts. When it gets cool or if they have been moved they can exhibit several growth problems just from that.
http://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/weeping-fig-ficus-benjamina-leaf-drop
http://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/weeping-fig-ficus-benjamina-leaf-drop
Jay! Thanks for the response!! There is no leaf drop; no signs of scale or mites. It is just some of the new growth which are now a bit more mature are curled and green looking. Would drying of the soil cause this condition? I am always worried of root rot and don't want to over water especially when planted in a plastic container. Thanks again for your input!! Chris
Chris,
It would be nice to know the species of the Ficus you are growing. New growth distortions can be due to virus or deficiency in elements that are not mobile in the plant. Sometimes a simple re-potting with new potting soil can help indoor plants a lot. Knowing the conditions specific for your plant always helps too.
It would be nice to know the species of the Ficus you are growing. New growth distortions can be due to virus or deficiency in elements that are not mobile in the plant. Sometimes a simple re-potting with new potting soil can help indoor plants a lot. Knowing the conditions specific for your plant always helps too.
Hi Jay! I have uploaded 3 photos to show you the deformities of the new leaves. The tree was just repotted about 4 months ago and has new soil. I used Miracle Grow indoor potting soil. I have no idea what the species is. Maybe you can get an idea from the photos. Thanks again Jay!! Chris
Looks like a Ficus benjamina, but the downward curl of the leaf margins is not normal. It is also a bit unusual and does not point to any specific diagnosis. You can search the online forums for ideas about this problem as it is something others have run into. You will see everything from soil compaction to, watering too much or too little to soil pH. You know your plant best and what has happened to it in the last few months. When you think you want to try something, do it slowly and be patient for results before trying something else. Overall, I think your plant will be fine.