Ficus Benjamina Leaf Curl: Aphids in New Growth

Ficus benjamina top leaves won't open, are yellow-green, bugs inside when opened. Plant otherwise healthy.

Diagnosis: Aphids in Terminal Buds

• Feed on emerging leaves → curling, distortion
• Yellow-green color from sap loss
• Visible inside curled leaves

Treatment

1. Insecticidal soap spray on new growth (repeat 3–4 days)
2. Or systemic: Imidacloprid granules in soil
3. Prune heavily infested tips

Ficus recovers fast once aphids controlled.