Question
The spots are not bumpy & scaly.  Rather the dark spots are dry.  And only on some of the leaves.  The tree otherwise has new bright green leaves.  Can the spots be due to overwatering?
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Followup To
Question -
why does my braided fiscus tree have some leaves with black spots?
Answer -
Hi Anne,

I suspect that the black spots are scale insects. Are the bumps slightly raised and do they scrape off fairly easily with a fingernail? Have you noticed any stickiness on any of the leaves?

If yes, let me know and I will tell you how to treat the scale. If not, give me a more detailed description of the spots (size, location, frequency, etc.) or send me a photo.

Regards,
Will Creed
E-mail: [email protected]

Answer
Hi Anne,

I am glad you have eliminated scale insects as a cause of the leaf spots.

If the spots are found only on some of the older leaves then they were probably caused by the very moist conditions in the greenhouse where they were grown or by overhead watering used in the greenhouse. In any case, it is not a disease that will spread and it is not a result of your waterng practices.

As long as the new leaves are healthy and spot-free, then you have nothing to be concerned about.

I have written an article on complete Ficus tree care that I can e-mail to you if you send a request to my e-mail address below.

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

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

If this information has been helpful, please remember to give me an AllExperts rating and nomination.