Ficus Ruby Care Instructions
A note from Joey
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Your plant may show some stress after shipping. Unbox it promptly and place it in bright, indirect light. Check the soil before watering. If it is still moist anywhere in the pot, wait. Once the soil has dried out completely, water thoroughly and let excess drain. Give your Ficus Ruby 1–2 weeks to settle into its new home.
Quick Care Summary
Give Ficus Ruby plenty of bright, indirect light to keep its pink and cream variegation vibrant. Let the soil dry out completely before giving it any more water. Then water thoroughly and let excess drain. Keep it warm and away from drafts.
Light
Bright, indirect light is best. Gentle morning sun is welcome, but strong afternoon sun may scorch the leaves. Move the plant into stronger light gradually.
- South-facing window: Set the plant a few feet back or filter the light with a sheer curtain.
- East-facing window: This is an excellent spot for gentle morning sun.
- West-facing window: Filter strong afternoon sun or move the plant back from the glass.
- North-facing window: This may be too dim; a large, unobstructed window or grow light may help.
Rotate the pot occasionally for even growth.
Water
Let the soil dry out completely before giving your Ficus Ruby any more water. Check several inches deep and near the bottom of the pot; if you feel any moisture, wait. Once the soil is fully dry, soak it thoroughly until excess runs from the drainage holes, then empty the saucer.
Do not follow a strict schedule. Light, season, temperature, pot size, and soil all affect drying time. Always check the soil first, especially when growth slows in winter.
Soil
Use a well-draining houseplant mix in a pot with drainage holes. Rosy Soil or FoxFarm Happy Frog can work well; add perlite or pumice if the mix stays wet too long.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is optional. If desired, use Jack’s Classic Houseplant Special about once a month while the plant is actively growing. Wait until your plant has settled in, and introduce fertilizer gradually:
- First application: Half the recommended amount
- Second application: Three-quarters of the recommended amount
- Third application and beyond: Full recommended amount
Never exceed the package directions. Skip fertilizer when the plant is stressed or growth has slowed.
Repotting
Repot when roots fill the current pot, into a container only 1–2 inches wider. A drainage hole is essential. Avoid an oversized pot, which holds extra moisture.
Humidity & Temperature
Average household humidity is usually sufficient. Keep your Ficus Ruby above 60°F and away from cold drafts, air-conditioning vents, and heating vents. If moving it outdoors in warm weather, introduce brighter light gradually.
Pet Safety
Ficus Ruby is not pet safe if chewed or ingested. Its milky sap may irritate skin. Keep it away from pets and children, and wash your hands after contact with sap.
Accessories
The following instructions apply if your order included a plant stand or water meter.
Plant Stand
Assemble the stand by connecting the two pieces at their center points, then place it on a stable, level surface. Pull the ends apart to open the stand as wide as possible. Carefully place the plant in the center, holding it securely so it does not fall while the stand is still open. Gently push the ends inward until they fit snugly around the pot and hold it securely in place.
Water Meter
Insert the probe into the soil until the tip reaches approximately two inches above the bottom of the pot. Be careful not to force the probe through any roots. Check several areas of the soil for an accurate reading. Wait until the soil reads completely dry before giving the plant a full, thorough watering. Wipe the probe clean after each use, and do not leave it in the soil permanently.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns about your plant, please reach out to support@joeyshouseplants.com. Thank you for supporting Joey’s Houseplants. Enjoy your new Ficus Ruby!
