Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny webs.
- Check the stems for small, hard brown bumps.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to see if debris comes off.
Likely causes
Spider Mites
Most likelyHow to tell: You see tiny white stippling on the leaves and fine webbing between branches. These mites thrive in dry, indoor air.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the webs. Increase humidity around the plant and use neem oil once a week until they are gone.
Scale Insects
PossibleHow to tell: Small, hard brown bumps appear on the stems or the undersides of leaves. They do not move and look like part of the plant.
What to do: Scrape the bumps off gently with your fingernail or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat this weekly until no new bumps appear.
When to worry
If the infestation covers the entire plant, it can be difficult to save. Treat it immediately when you see the first few bugs.
Stopping it coming back
Wipe your plant leaves down every month to keep them clean and dust free. This makes it harder for pests to hide and thrive.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your weeping fig.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can I use soap to kill these pests?
- Yes, a mild solution of dish soap and water works well for many pests. Just be sure to rinse the leaves afterward.
- Do I need to isolate my plant?
- Yes, move the infested plant away from your other houseplants immediately. Pests can spread quickly to your other greenery.
More problems with Weeping Fig
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.