I've noticed that one of the bottom leaves of my recently purchased Ficus lyrata is starting to yellow. I suspect this might be a reaction to the stress of moving from the garden center to its new home and adjusting to the new environment.
As someone who tends to overthink things and knowing that this plant is often viewed as challenging to care for, I decided to look up whether I should remove the yellowing leaves. I had heard that it's a good idea to trim leaves that are starting to yellow because it prevents the plant from wasting its nutrients and energy on leaves that won't regain their green color. However, after doing some reading online, I learned that it's better not to remove leaves that are just starting to yellow. The plant can actually break down those leaves and reclaim the nutrients they still hold.
Some of you might think l've already answered my own question, but honestly, I'm feeling a bit lost and confused here as both have their points. My main concern here is that I don't want to cause my Ficus lyrata any more stress than necessary, so I would greatly appreciate any advice, especially from those who have already dealt with a stressed Ficus lyrata after moving and successfully solved the issue. Thanks in advance!
For context: I water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry. The pot has drainage holes, even though it’s still in its nursery pot. It’s placed in a south-west facing window where it receives filtered direct sunlight, as my window is frosted/translucent and partially allows sunlight to pass through. Direct sun hits the plant on the late afternoon, from 2:30 to 5:00 PM, and Ficus lyrata seems to enjoy it as I have noticed no sunburns on its leaves (some browning are not the doing of mine but from its previous care taker).
by Astro_Marcus
1 Comment
Wait until they’re totally yellow, so the plant can reabsorb the nutrients in those leaves