Question
I have a new Ficus tree about 24?tall in a plastic 6?pot (which it was in when I purchased it 4 weeks ago).
It lives with the chameleon in a 36" tall cage. It sits under 5.0 Reptisun UVB lighting for about 11 hrs a day and I mist the cage twice daily (usually). At least I have been very conscientious about doing that this last week...
Mozart seems to love his plant; he weighs 70 grams, so I don't think he's hurting the tree when he walks through it...
Leaf drop, why & what can I do? Leaves are still green & it looks as though there is new growth, but still the leaf drop!
Thank you a million times for help in advance,
Moosma

Answer
Hi Moosma,

I am not familiar with the special reptile light you are using, but I suspect that it is not producing light that is in the right spectrum and of sufficient intensity for your Ficus tree. Ficus trees really need to be close to a window where they receive natural light. Artificial light alone is not usually adequate for good Ficus tree growth, so I am quite confident that is the reason your Ficus is shedding leaves.

I have written an article on Ficus tree care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to PlantCareExperts.com