How to treat a ficus for tick infestation? - briefly
Isolate the ficus, spray its foliage with a horticultural acaricide diluted in water according to the product label, and repeat the treatment after 10–14 days while maintaining regular leaf cleaning to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat a ficus for tick infestation? - in detail
Ticks can appear on ficus plants when the soil or surrounding environment harbors the parasites. Early detection prevents damage to foliage and reduces the risk of spreading to other plants.
Inspect the plant weekly. Look for small, dark, oval bodies attached to stems, leaves, or soil surface. Use a magnifying glass to confirm identification.
If ticks are present, follow these steps:
- Remove visible individuals with tweezers, pulling straight out to avoid leaving mouthparts in the plant tissue. Dispose of them in sealed plastic bags.
- Prepare a solution of 0.5 % neem oil mixed with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply thoroughly to all leaf surfaces, stems, and soil, ensuring coverage of undersides where ticks hide.
- Allow the spray to remain for at least 30 minutes before rinsing with clean water. Repeat the treatment after seven days to target newly hatched stages.
- For severe infestations, use a horticultural insecticide containing spinosad at the label‑recommended rate. Apply once, then repeat after ten days if any ticks persist.
- Reduce humidity around the plant by improving air circulation and adjusting watering practices. Over‑watering creates a moist environment favorable to tick development.
- Clean the pot and surrounding area with a solution of 10 % isopropyl alcohol. Rinse and dry before repotting in fresh, sterile substrate.
Monitor the ficus for four weeks after treatment. If no ticks are observed, maintain a monthly inspection schedule. Maintain proper cultural conditions—adequate light, balanced fertilization, and controlled moisture—to keep the plant healthy and less attractive to parasites.