Ficus Losing Deep Green Color: Light, Water, or pH?

Possible Causes

• New growth is naturally lighter—no issue.
• Hard tap water → alkaline soil → nutrient lockout. Flush with distilled/filtered water.
• Excess direct sun → bleached, thinner leaves (not harmful).
• Incomplete fertilizer – bonemeal only supplies phosphorus. Use balanced formula with higher nitrogen (e.g., 30‑10‑10).

Pruning Clarified

Cut any stem just above a node (leaf attachment). New growth emerges below the cut. Prune to shape—like a haircut.

Request articles on Ficus care, fertilizers, pruning at wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.