How To Make Your Plants Happy: Creeping Fig Care Guide

Drawing of creeping fig plant

Light

The plant needs to have bright, indirect light. It can also survive in low light conditions for extended periods of time but this will cause the plant to grow more slowly and drop its leaves. Avoid direct sunlight.

Water

Keep the soil moist but not overly wet, the root ball should always remain moist during spring and summer. Give it a thorough watering until water seems down the bottom of your pot. Water approximately every 7-10 days: if you see the soil is dry, it needs water. The more light the plant has the more water it will need. Reduce watering in cooler months to every two weeks and avoid soaking the soil.

Environment

Ideal temperature is 55-75°F but can be higher or lower to survive. Keep away from drafty doors or windows. This plant loves warm air and humidity. Normal room humidity is fine but may need extra humidity in the winter. The more light, the more moisture the plant may need and you may want to consider misting the leaves or placing a tray of water nearby for your Creeping Fig to absorb.

Growth

This woody vine can reach up to 15' or longer but is a slow grower. It prefers to be fertilized in spring and summer only once a month with a half diluted fertilizer.

Repotting

This plant likes the be somewhat root bound but does not want it's roots to fill the entire pot. Repot every two years during early spring into a pot 1" larger than the current size.. Any well-draining soil will work when repotting. 

Propagating

You can easily propagate the creeping fig with stem cuttings. Take a cutting off of the plant during the early spring and pot into any well-draining soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.

Toxicity

Keep away from your children and little furry friends. While it is not really poisonous, if you come intro contact with the milky sap produced by its stems, you may have skin irritation.

Creeping fig potted on a stool

About the Creeping Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus repens or Ficus pumila   

Nicknames: Creeping Fig, Fig Ivy, Creeping Ficus, Climbing Fig

The Creeping Fig is a very well-behaved climbing plant in the ficus family. It is full of tiny, heart-shaped leaves that are green in color and beautifully wrap themselves amongst their surroundings. It can be potted in hanging baskets, ground cover to hide a dirty wall, or even placed inside terrariums. Place this plant in a warm and humid environment to keep it happy. It will help purify the air in your space. Keep away from pets.     

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