Diseases in Weeping Fig Houseplants

Fungal Root Rot

• Over-watering weeping fig trees, or providing insufficient drainage, can put them at risk for diseases. A rogue's gallery of fungus -- including pythium, phytophthera, rhizoctonia and fusarium pathogens -- can infect weeping fig trees; all cause similar symptoms of wilting, yellowing and browning leaves. Clemson Cooperative Extension advises gently removing the plant from the pot to examine the roots, trying to keep the root ball and soil as intact as possible. While healthy roots are creamy white, firm and flexible, diseased roots are dark brown with a mushy texture. You may also detect a foul odor. If the weeping fig still has some white, vigorous roots, you may be able to save the plant by trimming the affected roots away with a clean, sharp scissors. Discard the soil and re-pot the plant in a new container with sterilized potting soil.

Bacterial Leaf Spot

• Although bacterial diseases are not common in weeping figs, they may strike if you keep your tree in excessively humid conditions or mist it too frequently. North Dakota State University reports that both Erwinia and Xanthomonas bacteria can cause disfiguring, dark brown, irregularly-shaped spots on leaves. Sometimes, the spots are encircled by a bright yellow ring, or halo. Promptly trim away all the diseased leaves, disinfecting the scissors between cuts to avoid spreading infection. There are no chemical treatments available for bacterial diseases in houseplants; severely infected plants may have to be discarded.

Leaf Drop

• Although not technically a disease, leaf drop -- the classic reaction of weeping figs to stresses both minor and major -- can make your tree look sick. Moving the tree to a new location, under- and over-watering, exposing the tree to drafts and providing insufficient light can all cause leaves to drop off. Nitrogen deficiencies and root rot can also cause leaf drop. Some leaf drop is normal, especially with changing of the seasons.

Prevention

• The best way to protect your weeping fig from disease is to offer it proper growing conditions. Weeping figs must have plenty of bright, indirect light; sunlight that is filtered by gauzy curtains or taller houseplants is ideal. Night temperatures should be between 65 and 70 degrees; daytime temperatures should range between 75 and 85 degrees. Providing the right amount of water is essential. According to Clemson Cooperative Extension, a good rule of thumb is to keep the soil evenly moist during the tree's growing period. In winter, allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and irrigate thoroughly until the water runs out the drainage holes. Empty the overflow saucer promptly.