Question
hi darlene - i have just bought a small ficus tree - the one with small leaves (the type that loves to drop its leaves if it doesn't like its location!).  i would love some tips on how to keep it looking at its best.  it could either be placed in the living room - which is light but will tend to get very hot in summer - or in the shade outside the front door.  how often to water it/fertilize it?? -  and if there are any other tips to keep it flourishing and happy.  
thank you so much for your help.

Answer
Jill,

Ficus trees are very tropical growing at the edged of jungles in their natural environment so they don't mind heat and they love sun. Put it in a south facing window and in summer it can go outdoors in a semi shade area (full sun might sunburn it.) It needs to stay above 60 degrees. Fertilize it once a month with a water soluable fertilizer like Miracle Grow and water every 7-10 days or when it is very dry. The roots do need to breath between watering so do not keep it constantly wet. They like to be a little root bound and will stay healthier that way so don't be too quick to repot. Any more questions, just ask. Good luck.

                                        Darlene