Question
We have an older Ficus tree, about 2/3 is dead with a light sap droppings about the floor and furnishings.  It had reached a height of 8' but now it is only about 5'. My wife had saved it in 1986 when a client was tossing it out.  So it is now part of the family! The sap is colored milky or light chalk white and it is water soluble but how can we save the tree?  We see small nats or fruit flys about, much reduced from the summer.  What can we do?

Anna

Answer
Hi Anna,

I wouldn't be ready to give up yet.  Species of Ficus have a milky white sap sometimes referred to as latex.  The most widely known species is _Ficus elasticus_, the common "rubber plant" houseplant.  The "latex" is water-soluble, and it is nothing unusual or unhealthy.

The thing that concerns me is the "sap droppings".  This is not usual, and it sounds as though you may have a scale insect infestation.  The sap that you are talking about is probably the "honeydew" associated with those insects.  They are visible as 3mm to 5mm oval to circular (1/16 to 1/8 inch)discs.  These are variable in color from off-white to dark brown.  Inspect the branches and leaves very carefully.  In scale insect infestations, the leaves will first yellow, then fall.  If the infestation is severe the tips of branches will eventually die.

Ficus trees thrive in bright sun and relatively high humidity.  They will tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions which makes this species ideal for growing indoors.  When the weather is reliably warm, place the plant outdoors, first starting in a relatively shaded area, then moving it gradually into a bright sunny spot.  

One acclimated to the sunny spot, start feeding monthly with a 10-10-10 water soluble fertilizer.  Your plant should regain health.
The small insects you see are most likely fungus gnats.  They are usually found in the first few mm. of the soil, and when disturbed fly about for a few minutes near the soil.  These are usually harmless, but if the infestation becomes severe, the larvae can chew on the plant's roots.  Fungus gnats are most easily controlled by allowing the surface of the soil to dry out between waterings.  When placed outdoors, the natural predators will take care of the gnat population quite quickly.