Question
Thank you for your reply.  I wish I lived in a part of the country that I could put my plants outdoors this time of year, but unfortunately in Portland right now it is 18 degrees.  I will try to get them more sun though.  Thanks again  Sharon
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I read your reply to concerns someone had on the leaves dropping from their ficus tree.  We moved to a different location 7 months ago and I thought my ficus survived the move, but they too are dropping leaves at an alarming rate.  As it is overcast many days now during the winter months, they are not receiving much, if any, sunlight.  They are both over 6 feet tall, but seem so sparce now.  Should I cut off the branches that seem empty or just wait until spring to see what happens?  Maybe your book on the care of ficus would help.  Thank you for your help.
-----Answer-----
Sharon,

I would not prune it at this point. Wait till spring and if possible put the tree outdoors where it will get sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon.

In the meantime I would move it to sit in front of the largest south facing window you have and leav e the drapes or blinds open all day so it will get as much sun as possible. It needs as much sun as possible.

Ficus does go semi dormant this time of year becuse of the shorter days and less sun. Be very careful not to overwater it. Sitting in a swamp can cause leaf drop too. Watering about once every 2 weeks is enough this time of year if you water it thoroughly when you do.

I do not have a book on ficus and do not know of any good ones. I would love to write one if I could find a publisher interested. Good luck.

Darlene

Answer
Sharon,

I know what you mean, today it is 34 in northeast Indiana but tomorrow the high is supposed to be 25 and the sun hasn't shined since last Thursday. I think you will find that more light even though it is not sun will help and so will less water. Good luck.

Darlene