Ficus Leaf Spot (Cercospora): Fungus Management Indoors

A 4-foot indoor ficus in Florida has small, round, light brown spots with dark centers on nearly all leaves, even new growth. Scrapable with a fingernail. Some leaves yellow and drop. The expert identifies Cercospora leaf spot and recommends removing diseased leaves, avoiding misting, and spraying with Benlate (a fungicide). For an organic alternative, Atomic Grow is suggested to remove fungus and boost health.

Care Routine

• Bright, indirect light; no direct sun.
• Water when top inch of soil is dry.
• No misting—wet leaves spread fungus.
• Remove spotted leaves promptly.
• Apply organic or chemical fungicide per label.

Consistency stops the spread.