Ficus 'Veld Fig' Bonsai Care: Light, Watering, Pruning

Emily's Ficus burtt-davyi (dwarf veld fig) bonsai drops green and brown leaves. Kept indoors with moist soil (water every 3 days) in Bay Area.

Species-Specific Care

Light: Essential—sunny windowsill or within feet of sunny window. This South African species needs high light.

Watering: Allow surface to dry, then water thoroughly. Don't keep constantly soggy (root rot) or bone dry (temporary dormancy/leaf drop). Balance is key.

Fertilizer: Half-strength, monthly max.

Humidity: Not critical.

Pruning: Regular, mandatory for bonsai maintenance.

Leaf drop suggests either underwatering (too dry) or overwatering (root rot). Check soil moisture at depth, not just surface.