Knowledgebase

Ficus Benjamina #928069

Asked April 11, 2026, 8:22 AM EDT

My ficus benjamina is leaning. I would like to straighten the stem. What is the best way to do this. I have been rotating it, as I do with other houseplants, but I read that it is not good to rotate ficus benjamina. Please advise and thanks. Photo below (I hope I did it correctly). The ficus has also been losing leaves in the last month or so. There are no bugs. I suspect it might be lack of humidity, especially during winter. I will add a layer of pebbles. I have had the plant for about 3 years, and have never had this much leaf drop. Any thoughts on this? Thanks, Susan Feinberg

Windsor County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello Susan and thank you for writing in to the UVM Master Gardener Extension Helpline with your questions.

Overall, it looks like your Ficus Benjamina is rather healthy. I do not see any noticeable yellowing of leaves and you shared that you did not see any bugs/pest damage so these factors all indicate a generally healthy houseplant.

Mississippi State University Extension has published an excellent general resource for care & selection of indoor plants. This publication covers everything from light intensity, plant location, water needs, potting options etc. You can read that here Care & Selection of Indoor Plants | Mississippi State University Extension Service

The North Carolina State Extension Gardener site published an article you may find helpful that is a bit more specific to your Ficus. You can read the article in full here- Ficus benjamina (Benjamin Tree, Chinese Banyan, Fig, Indian Rubber Plant, Java Fig, Small-leaved Rubber Plant, Weeping Fig) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

The following snippet comes from that article; This ficus performs best in bright indirect sunny locations but will also survive in shade. It is very sensitive to light, so if the plant is moved, it may drop leaves and produce new ones that are accustomed to the new light conditions. It grows well in a soil-based potting mix. Water just often enough to keep the soil from completely drying out. It is intolerant to cold and should be kept away from drafts. Light pruning for shape and size is best done in late autumn or winter. Flowers and fruit will appear on both new and old growth. It may benefit from light fertilization after new shoots form and at the end of summer.

Your hunch that the Ficus may need a more humid environment is correct. This particular plant is native to southeastern Asia and Australia, with its range extending into the southwestern Pacific, generally preferring a humid environment. Your Ficus is sensitive to both light and water.

A saucer with pebbles and water under the Ficus is a great idea. Just be sure that the plant does not sit in the water as it can become waterlogged and the roots will rot. A humidifier near the plant is another good option.

This article from Iowa State University covers some basics for diagnosing houseplant problems that you may find helpful, too Diagnosing Houseplant Problems from Improper Environmental Conditions | Yard and Garden

As for straightening the stem you have 2 options;

  • You can stake the plant (place the stake opposite to the stem) and gently tie it off, encouraging a slow and steady lean in the desired direction. Use caution when doing so as the stem is sensitive and can snap if too much pressure is applied.
  • The Ficus will lean towards the light so you can alternatively position the plant in such a way that it will naturally right itself. You may have some leaf drop with this process, which is normal.

Good luck!


Happy Gardening! Replied April 11, 2026, 6:23 PM EDT

Loading ...