This question pertains to a Ficus tree (I believe it to be just a standard Ficus) my mother has. Here's some quick background info:
She resides in San Marcos, TX.
Ficus was purchased approximately 6 years ago.
Has always been an indoor tree.
Ficus is 6 ft. tall.
Potting soil is approximately 3 years old.
Sits next to double sized patio window for late afternoon sun.
She tends to let soil get very dry before watering.
There is no pebble base in the pot, below the soil.
Now for the issues. While there are many signs all over of new growth, the tree drops leaves with frequency. Most of the dropped leaves are dead however, a few are green. There is also a bare spot in one area. I'd estimate this area to be about 5% to 10% of total area, has been present for months and shows no signs of spreading. I turned the tree 180 degrees so that the bare spot is closest to the window a month ago. No noticeable change as of yet. She would like to slow down the rate of dropped leaves and attend to the bare spot so that it hopefully once again can be filled with growth. I think the potting soil needs to be changed but am meeting resistance with her on that matter. The soil has turned almost into a powder and smells funny. Occasionally there is a light, whitish in color growth on the top of the soil, usually after watering (mold?). Any assistance would be appreciated.
