Question
Hi,
I have a Ficus. lately I have observed that it has shed all its leaves. The branches also look dry. I have been taking good care of it but I don't understand why it shed all its leaves. Is it alive or dead and how can I regain its health.thanks

Answer
Kelly,
Water your rubber plant ( Ficus ) in the following manner. I water most of my plants this way.

Check how much the plant weighs when thoroughly watered VS its' weight when it is ready to be watered again. Sometimes it helps to put a saucer under the pot and let the plant sit in water for 10-15 minutes. After that pour off the excess water. Pick the pot up ( or lean it if it a large pot ) and feel how heavy it is after watering it thoroughly. Don't water it again until it feels considerably lighter and the top of the soil is light in color. Mother Nature doesn't water once a week...Depending on plant types, sunlight exposure and pot size plants will need water at many different rates from once a day to once a month or more. You should turn the plant a 1/4 turn once per week to keep the growth even.
They do not like direct sunlite unless it is morning sun...Moving a plant from a bright area to a less light situation usually will cause leaf yellowing and leaf drop...They are grown in the shade in FL...

Remove yellow leaves when they become unsightly...
Hope this helps. Do let me know either way if you like the advice or not.
Rick in Southern NJ