Tips and branches begin to die back and the leaves on these affected tissues turn brown and persist rather than drop. Infected twigs turn brown and the bark often sloughs off, giving them a roughened appearance.
Symptoms often progress at a slow pace although the entire plant can become infected.
This disease can be controlled by cultural practices that minimize plant stress and maximize plant vigor. Affected portions can be pruned back to healthy wood using a clean, sharp, pruning tool. Weeping fig is extremely sensitive to changes or extremes in light levels, soluble salts, temperature, and pH. Extensive yellowing and leaf drop can occur in response to even subtle changes in these factors. Although the extent of leaf drop can be disconcerting, in most cases plants recover after a period of adjustment. Stress associated with leaf drop can be minimized by following a sound program for cultural care.