Does the weeping fig tolerate frost?

Tropical origin signals zero tolerance towards zero degrees

The weeping fig is native to the tropical belt of our planet, where temperatures rarely drop below 20 degrees Celsius. As a result, the evergreen ornamental wood does not have any winter hardiness. The exotic plant actually shivers at temperatures below 16 degrees Celsius. If the mercury column falls to the freezing point for just one night, a Ficus benjamina breathes its life.

How to properly overwinter your weeping fig

If your Benjamini was able to enjoy the summer outdoors, give the plant away in good time in autumn. With the following care program, you can guide your evergreen roommate through the cold season without prejudice to:

• The ideal winter quarters are bright and warm with temperatures above 18 degrees Celsius
• A high humidity of more than 50 percent is desirable
• Water less compared to summer time
• Fertilize every 6 weeks from October to March

The sunnier the location in winter, the warmer the temperatures can be. So that the weeping fig can overwinter in the well-heated living room, it should take a seat at the south window. The temperature-controlled, bright bedroom is recommended as winter quarters, as the cooler temperatures here better compensate for the lack of light. The temperature must never fall below the minimum.

My weeping fig is still alive after a frosty night

A well-cared for Ficus benjamina at an advanced age can have a robust constitution that can survive a night at temperatures around freezing point. Even though the leaves are all falling off, the branches can still be vital. Scrape off the bark a little. If the tissue is green, there is a good chance that it will sprout again.