Bengal fig care guide

Pets and children

How often to water Bengal fig

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 5 days

Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, and empty the saucer afterward.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 7 days

The soil dries more slowly, so as a guide wait a day or two after it dries before watering.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 10 days

Water sparingly about three to four days after the soil dries, and mist the leaves if heating dries the air.

Light and placement for Bengal fig

Generally happiest in bright light by a window softened by a sheer curtain; too little light means small leaves and leggy growth, and harsh midsummer sun can scorch the leaves.

Overwintering Bengal fig

Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above

As a guide, bring it indoors to a bright spot once nights fall below about 10°C; it tolerates around 5°C, but keep it off cold windowsills and away from heater drafts, and water sparingly.

Fertilizing and repotting Bengal fig

Fertilizer

While the big leaves are growing, from May to September, slow-release fertilizer about every two months or a diluted liquid feed roughly every two weeks; taper off in autumn and give none in winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Bengal fig

• Moving it around or exposing it to cold drafts makes it drop leaves.
• Overwatering rots the roots; the leaves yellow and fall.
• Kept in a dim spot, the leaves shrink and the branches stretch.

Tips for growing Bengal fig

• Turning the pot now and then keeps the plant growing evenly instead of leaning to the light.
• The broad leaves collect dust; wiping them with a damp cloth lets them take in more light.
• Prune in May or June, wearing gloves because the sap stains and irritates skin.

More foliage plant care guides

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• Boston fernNephrolepis exaltata
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