What am I doing wrong with my indoor weeping fig plants?

[CroissantNeuf]

I have about 4 weeping figs and I don't know what I'm doing wrong but they always look spindly, bare and seem to constantly drop leaves. Two of them must be about 4/5 years old but have never looked healthy (other than when I bought them).

I know lots of people that have ones that look leafy, green, healthy and up to 5ft high!

What is the most likely cause for my ailing plants -over/under watering or something else?

[PeriPathetic]

Over-watering? Only water them when the soil is dry.
Too dark where they are kept?
Erm... can't think of any more

Mine thrive on neglect, so try this!

[CroissantNeuf]

ah, now I thought neglect had been the problem

[PeriPathetic]

I left mine for 6 weeks over the summer - it's doing brilliantly! Not sure if it got watered by the people looking after my cat, but I don't think so.

I seem to remember they don't like being moved much, so when they're in place, avoid moving them.

Light is pretty important though.

[CroissantNeuf]

They are out of direct sunlight but in bright places with lots of light IYSWIM and are probably under watered more than over-watered.

Only one has been moved recently but it seemed unhappy before it was moved so I don't think thats caused it.

[PeriPathetic]

Is this of any use? Ficus care

[thenightsky]

I have one that reached 8ft when in a conseratory at previous house. These days it grows leaves that look all twisted and small. I've left it outside all summer and it seems to have regained some strength. Bit late now for you OP though.

[ashtangini]

Finding a spot they like and then leaving them there is the key I think. They throw a bit of a hissy fit when moved and chuck all their leaves off. It's just insecurity.

The one large one that I know has been in the same spot for 10 years.

[GastroTurf]

Yes, moving them is the kiss of death. Mine also got sunburned. They don't like draughts either. Fussy feckers.