Creeping fig care guide
Ficus pumila
Also known as: Climbing fig, Ficus pumila
Pets and children
Caution advised
The white sap from cut stems can irritate skin and mouth; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Creeping fig
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 3 days
- Water thoroughly as soon as the topsoil dries, as a guide; small pots dry fast, and a dried-out plant crisps.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 5 days
- As the soil dries more slowly, wait about a day after the surface dries before watering.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Water roughly two to three days after the topsoil dries; misting helps in a dry heated room.
Light and placement for Creeping fig
Generally best in bright shade or light through a sheer curtain: strong direct sun scorches the small leaves, while a dark spot fades the variegation; it likes good air movement.
Overwintering Creeping fig
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Fairly cold-tolerant down to around 0°C; as a guide, move pots under the eaves out of frost or to a bright spot indoors, and keep variegated forms, which are more tender, inside.
Fertilizing and repotting Creeping fig
Fertilizer
From April to October, a diluted liquid feed about every two weeks or slow-release fertilizer roughly every two months; in a small pot strong fertilizer burns the roots, so keep it weak, and give none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Creeping fig
- Letting it dry out crisps the leaves, and those leaves do not recover.
- Midsummer sun scorches the leaves.
- In a stuffy spot spider mites move in and the leaves turn pale and speckled.
Tips for growing Creeping fig
- Cut back overlong runners in spring or summer to keep the plant bushy.
- Cut runners root easily in water or soil.
- In mild areas it can be grown up an outdoor wall, but it spreads widely.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
