Ficus Tree Winter Damage: Check for Life, Bring Indoors

Assess Viability

Maria's ficus dropped leaves, then endured snow. Nick bark with knife: green inside = alive.

If Alive

1. Bring indoors immediately.
2. Warm, sunny spot.
3. No outdoors until nights consistently >65°F.
4. Water when top dry; mist for humidity.

Ficus Nature

Leaf drop is normal (20–30% in fall). They rebound in spring if roots survive. Cold shock kills roots, not just leaves.