Ficus Benjamina problems. Can it be saved?

[GreenThumbGuy]

Early in 2012 I purchased a Ficus Benjamina for my Mother-in-law, as i had good luck with mine for about a year. seemed to be a fairly easy tree to care for, so i figured it was a good fit for her despite her "black thumb". however. Her tree defoliated on its own about 2 months ago, which i chalked up to the colder season. it began growing new leaves on it about two weeks ago, which i also expected. unexpected on the other hand, was the spray painting that was done in the vicinity of the poor, unsuspecting tree. the leaves turned black and fell off in short order, and she had me bring it home to see if i could do anything for it. I have flushed the roots with water, and changed the soil for a loose root-friendly mix. any and all help/advice is appreciated.

 

[Neli]

Dont overwater, but try to provide humidity.

 

[AlBooBoo]

Hey

I dont think the spray painting is the issue.. unless you painted the tree it self..

If the leaves are getting darker from the midline of the leave it sounds like the water cells are bursting cause a little overwatering + you moved the plant to a new habitat..

Try to tilt the pot a little so it can drain out a bit faster and just give it some time.. should be fine

 

[KennedyMarx]

Not sure of your location, but can you put it outside? They can deal with low light conditions inside. They do much better outside though.

 

[GreenThumbGuy]

Outside is not an option. too cold here for that for at least another few weeks. and the leaves turned black and fell off before it was moved at all. the paint DID get on the tree itself, which i guess i wasn't very clear on. she says watering hasn't changed and she hasn't moved it since she got it. pretty sure the paint is the issue as i have not had any problems with my tree in basically the same exact conditions. so with these added tidbits of information, any suggestions? sorry for the omissions before, it was not intentional.

 

[lordy]

since it has disrobed, it wont be using much water, which could be the issue to begin with. I would withhold water until the soil is dry down to about 1/2" to 3/4". Do the chopstick moisture meter thing and you will be able to tell quickly if it has water enough. Warmth will help, and sunlight too. If there is any life in it, it will begin to show buds soon, and the light will help speed it's recovery.

 

[GreenThumbGuy]

Good deal. thanks for the information. that is pretty much what I have been doing, so I will continue and hope for the best. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to read/reply.