Ficus Hedge Troubles: Leaf Drop, Brown Patches, and Whitefly Solutions

Understanding Ficus Hedge Decline

A ficus hedge in Tampa is showing concerning symptoms: leaves are dropping from the lower levels, some have brown patches, and the top remains green and healthy. The issue appears localized and hasn't spread across the entire hedge. The owner discovered they had been overwatering—running a drip line for 30 minutes nightly—and have since reduced watering to once a week. Additionally, two large, slightly spongy brown balls have emerged from the trunks of some plants.

Diagnosis: Whitefly Infestation and Water Stress

The leaf drop and brown patches are likely due to a combination of overwatering and a whitefly infestation. Whiteflies are causing extensive damage to ficus hedges and trees in Dade County. Infested plants exhibit yellowing leaves and can become completely bare if untreated. The spongy brown balls on the trunks may be a secondary issue or a sign of stress.

Recommended Treatment

• Adjust Watering: Water deeply but infrequently—once a week is appropriate for established hedges.
• Control Whiteflies: Apply Organocide at weekly intervals for three weeks to gain control. Ficus benjamina is a favored host, but other ficus varieties are also susceptible.
• Monitor Recovery: Treated hedges typically regrow foliage.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on ficus hedge care, refer to the University of Florida IFAS Extension publication: Caulkins 30 Hedges PDF.