What should I do if the leaves of a ginseng ficus develop black spots and also turn yellow and drop off?

1. Disease problems

(1) Specific cause: There is a disease you have all probably heard of, called "black spot disease." As the name suggests, when the plant is affected, some black spots appear on its leaves. If the condition worsens, these spots slowly expand and the leaves may drop off. In the end, the entire plant may be affected. This disease mainly occurs in places that are both stuffy and humid with poor ventilation. It can occur all year round, but it appears more often during hot weather with poor ventilation.

(2) Solution: First, we need to dispose of the leaves that have already fallen and the diseased leaves to avoid worsening the condition. In addition, we can spray some chemicals for prevention and control. For example, thiophanate-methyl works quite well. Also, if conditions allow, the soil can be disinfected. Then there is daily watering, which also needs attention. When watering, water along the edge of the pot. Do not water too frequently. Also, it is best not to water at night, to prevent the growth of pathogens.

2. Watering problems

(1) Specific cause: Sometimes some of the water used for watering may accidentally splash onto the leaves. Then, once the sun shines on them, black spots may form.

(2) Solution: When watering, be sure to pay attention, and it is best to water along the edge of the container. Do not go too fast, and try to avoid splashing the leaves. If any water accidentally splashes on them, you can wipe it off with a dry cloth.

3. Normal phenomenon

Sometimes, black spots growing on the plant's leaves are a normal sign of aging, and in that case no special treatment is needed.