To understand your watering needs, you must first understand my origins. I am a Ficus lyrata, native to the lowland tropical rainforests of Western Africa. In my natural habitat, my roots experience cycles of heavy, drenching rain followed by periods where the top layer of soil is allowed to dry out as the sun permeates the canopy. My root system is not adapted to sit in perpetually soggy, waterlogged soil; this leads to root rot, a fatal condition. Conversely, I am a broad-leaved plant, and my large foliage loses moisture to the indoor environment. My imperative is for deep, infrequent watering that mimics the natural rain cycles of my home, encouraging strong and deep root growth rather than weak, surface-level roots.
You must resist the urge to water me on a fixed schedule, such as "every Sunday." The rate at which I use water is influenced by variables I cannot control: seasonal light intensity, room temperature, humidity levels, and the size of my pot. The only reliable method is to physically check the moisture level in my soil. Insert your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle (about 2-3 inches deep). If the soil at that depth feels dry, it is time to water me thoroughly. If it still feels moist or cool, I do not need water yet. You may also use a moisture meter for a more precise reading, but the finger test is a simple and effective technique.
When my soil is dry at the appropriate depth, please water me correctly. The goal is a deep, thorough soaking. Bring me to a sink or shower and slowly pour room-temperature water over the surface of the soil. Continue until you see water flowing freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of my pot. This process ensures that the entire root ball has been quenched. It is critical that my pot has these drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Allow all excess water to drain away completely before returning me to my decorative outer pot or saucer. Never let my roots stand in a pool of water.
My water consumption changes dramatically with the seasons. During the spring and summer, I am in my active growth phase, fueled by longer and brighter days. I will drink much more water during this time, and you may find yourself watering me every 1-2 weeks. In the fall and winter, my growth slows significantly due to lower light levels and cooler temperatures. My soil will take much longer to dry out, sometimes requiring 3-4 weeks or more between waterings. Pay close attention to my leaves; they will communicate my needs. Soft, drooping leaves often indicate thirst, while consistently yellowing leaves and leaf drop (especially lower leaves) can be a sign of overwatering and root distress.
