Why Are My Fig Tree Leaves Falling Off?
Fig trees are popular plants for homes and landscapes, but they can be a bit finicky. One common problem is leaf drop, which can be caused by a variety of factors.
Normal Leaf Drop
Fig trees are deciduous, which means they lose their leaves in the fall. This is a normal part of their life cycle and nothing to worry about. New leaves will emerge in the spring.
Environmental Changes
Figs are sensitive to changes in their environment, so if you move your tree to a new location, make sure to do so gradually. Start by exposing it to the new conditions for just an hour a day and gradually increase its time in the new spot over the course of about two weeks. This will help prevent shock and keep the leaves on your fig tree.
Watering
Fig trees need to be watered regularly, but not too much. Overwatering can cause leaf drop, as can underwatering. The best way to water a fig tree is to check the soil 1 inch below the surface. If it is dry to the touch, water the tree deeply until water comes out of the bottom of the pot. Discard the excess water when it finishes draining.
Pests
Scale insects and spider mites are common fig pests that can cause leaf drop. Scale insects look like small, brown bumps on the leaves and stems of the tree. Spider mites are too small to see with the naked eye, but you may notice fine silk threads on the leaves. Both pests can be treated with neem oil.
Other Causes of Leaf Drop
In addition to the factors listed above, other things that can cause fig tree leaf drop include:
- Nutrient deficiency: Fig trees need to be fertilized regularly to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need.
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can damage the roots of the tree and cause leaf drop.
- Diseases: There are a number of diseases that can affect fig trees, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust.
How to Prevent Fig Tree Leaf Drop
The best way to prevent fig tree leaf drop is to provide your tree with the proper care. This includes:
- Watering it regularly
- Fertilizing it regularly
- Protecting it from pests and diseases
- Avoiding sudden changes in its environment
If you follow these tips, you can help your fig tree stay healthy and prevent leaf drop.
Additional Tips
- If you are unsure what is causing the leaf drop on your fig tree, you can consult with a local nursery or arborist.
- If you have tried all of the above tips and your fig tree is still losing leaves, it may be time to call a professional.
