Ficus Care in the Desert
Ficus Plant Care in Phoenix
Ficus plants are statement-makers — from the glossy leaves of the Rubber Tree to the sculptural form of the Fiddle Leaf Fig. They can thrive in Phoenix homes with the right care, but light is key. Here’s how to help your ficus plants grow strong and healthy indoors (and even outdoors) in our desert climate.
Light
Ficus love bright, indirect light. A few hours of soft morning sun or filtered light near a bright window is ideal. In Phoenix, the biggest mistake people make is too little light indoors — ficus plants need much more brightness than most realize. If leaves start dropping or turning dull, move your plant closer to the light.
Cool fact: Some ficus varieties, like the Ficus Burgundy and Ficus Elastica, can actually be transitioned outdoors here in the Valley. Once acclimated slowly, they can handle our dry climate and even be planted directly in the ground in partial sun.
Water
In the heat of summer, water about once a week, letting the top few inches of soil dry out between waterings. In winter, slow it down — usually every 10–14 days. Ficus plants prefer consistent moisture, but soggy soil can quickly cause root rot. Always check the soil before watering.
Humidity & Cleaning
Phoenix air is dry, and ficus plants love humidity. Mist the leaves occasionally, or better yet, wipe them down with our house-made leaf cleaner to remove dust and add a natural shine. Clean leaves absorb more light, helping your plant photosynthesize better.
Repotting & Fertilizing
We recommend repotting your ficus every 1–2 years as it grows. At Maricopa Botanicals, we offer repotting services and can refresh your plant’s soil or move it into one of our handmade pots for a cleaner look.
Feed your ficus monthly during spring and summer with our house-made liquid fertilizer, designed to nourish roots and promote lush growth without harsh chemicals.
Common Issues
Leaf drop: Usually caused by changes in light or watering schedule.
Brown edges: Low humidity or underwatering.
Sticky leaves or webbing: Wipe down regularly to prevent pests.
If you notice tiny flying insects in the soil, try our homemade fungal gnat spray — safe and effective for indoor use.
In Summary
Ficus plants need lots of light, consistent watering, and clean leaves to thrive in Phoenix homes. Once you understand their light needs, they’re surprisingly resilient and can even adapt to our desert climate.
Visit Maricopa Botanicals for repotting help, natural plant care products, and local advice to keep your ficus happy year-round.
