What Are Those White Spots on My Fig Leaves?

If you’ve noticed white spots popping up on the leaves of your fig tree, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that afflicts fig trees, both indoors and out. The white spots can appear powdery or crusty and often spread across the leaf surface over time But what causes these unsightly blemishes, and what can you do about them? Read on to learn more about diagnosing and treating white spots on fig leaves

What Causes White Spots on Fig Leaves?

There are a few potential culprits when it comes to white spots on fig trees. Here are some of the most likely causes:

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that presents as white or gray powdery spots on leaves. It thrives in humid, stagnant conditions and can spread rapidly between plants. Powdery mildew starts off as small spots that get larger and fluffier as the fungus grows It wipes off easily with your finger This fungus sucks nutrients from the leaves, eventually causing them to yellow, wither, and die.

Hard Water Mineral Deposits

If you water your fig tree with tap water that contains a high level of dissolved minerals, it can leave white mineral residue on the leaves that builds up over time. These water spots are simply aesthetic and can be prevented by using distilled, filtered, or rain water for irrigation.

Pest Damage

Certain pests like spider mites, thrips, and scale insects can cause white stippling, dots, or spots on fig leaves as they feed. Check the undersides of leaves closely to see if any tiny insects or webbing are present. Pests pierce plant cells to suck out sap, damaging the leaf surface.

Sun Scald

Intense sunlight can burn fig leaves, causing bleached white spots or patches. This often occurs if the plant sits right against a hot, sunny window. Move the fig tree farther back from the window or provide some sheer curtain filtering to prevent sun scald.

How to Treat White Spots on Fig Leaves

Once you’ve determined the cause of the spots, you can take action to both treat and prevent further damage. Here are some tips:

• Improve airflow – Powdery mildew thrives in stagnant air. Improve airflow by spacing plants, using fans, opening windows, etc.

• Prune infected leaves – Remove badly infected leaves to prevent spread. Sterilize pruners between cuts.

• Use a fungicidal spray – For powdery mildew, spray affected leaves thoroughly with neem oil or a baking soda solution.

• Treat pests – Use horticultural oil, insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill mites, thrips, scale, etc.

• Filter water – Prevent hard water spots by irrigating with distilled or rain water.

• Protect from sun – Move plant back from hot windows and provide sheer curtain filtering.

• Improve light exposure – Powdery mildew often develops in low light. Move plant into brighter (but not direct) light.

• Avoid overhead watering – Water at the soil line instead of from the top down to keep leaves dry.

• Apply fungicide – Use a commercial fungicidal spray labeled for powdery mildew as a preventative.

With persistence and using multiple tactics together, you can get an infestation under control and restore the fig tree’s health and beauty. Be sure to sterilize any tools and gloves between plants to avoid spreading disease. Remove and destroy any fallen leaves and prunings.

For indoor fig trees, isolate the plant away from your other houseplants until the issue resolves, so it doesn’t spread. Grow lights, fans, humidity trays, and proper watering techniques all help prevent recurrence. Enjoy your fig tree’s improved health!

Frequently Asked Questions About White Spots on Fig Leaves

Here are answers to some common questions about diagnosing and treating white spots on fig trees:

How do I know if the spots are powdery mildew or mineral deposits?

Powdery mildew can be rubbed off easily, revealing a yellowish discoloration underneath. Mineral deposits cannot be rubbed off the leaf surface. Mildew has a puffy, powdery texture while mineral deposits are flat and crusty.

Should I cut off leaves with just a few spots?

If just a small number of leaves are affected, you can selectively prune those leaves. But if the fungus is spread across multiple leaves, it’s better to treat the tree overall rather than prune off every affected leaf.

How often should I apply fungicidal sprays?

Apply every 7-14 days until the mildew is under control. Then you can use it preventatively once a month or so. Always follow label directions.

Does powdery mildew affect the figs?

Fortunately, powdery mildew usually only affects the foliage. The figs themselves are generally not impacted. But an advanced, unchecked infestation can weaken the plant and reduce fruit production.

Should I throw out my fig tree if it has powdery mildew?

Absolutely not! Powdery mildew is treatable and your tree can fully recover with proper care. No need to dispose of the plant, even if it loses some leaves during treatment.

How do I sterilize my pruning shears?

Wipe the blades with rubbing alcohol between each cut. This prevents transferring diseases between branches as you prune away infected plant parts.

What kind of water is best for preventing mineral deposits?

Filtered, distilled, or rain water is ideal for fig trees prone to hard water spots. Tap water often contains minerals that leave white residue on the foliage over time.

Be vigilant in checking for white spots on your fig tree’s leaves. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, you can restore its health and beauty for years of enjoyment!