Autumn is the best month for pruning Ficus trees, just behind the leaf. But there is one exception, the Ficus lyrata should be pruned in spring, because this plant needs more energy to sprout new growth and sufficient sunlight is needed for this. It is a well known phenomenon that Ficus trees “bleed” after pruning. The milky sap that is excreted can cause skin irritation. It is therefore best to cover the wound with soil to stop the bleeding. Note that a pruned Ficus uses less water when many leaves have been removed.