Fiddle leaf figs have skyrocketed in popularity as indoor plants, beloved for their large, glossy leaves and tropical look. They add a striking, lush aesthetic to any room.
However, keeping them healthy can be challenging. If you are a beginner plant owner, I don’t recommend getting a fiddle leaf fig as one of your first house plants.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to care for your fiddle leaf fig scientifically known as Ficus lyrata, and help it flourish indoors.
Light Requirements
Fiddle leaf figs thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. A lack of sunlight can lead to slow growth, leggy stems, and drooping leaves.
Place your plant near a sunny window, ideally a few feet back so it receives ample light without direct sun exposure, which can scorch the leaves. South- or east-facing windows are ideal.
Temperature and Humidity
Fiddle leaf figs do well in temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (16-24°C). They prefer humidity levels between 30-65%, mimicking tropical conditions.
If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidifier or placing a water tray with pebbles under the pot to add moisture to the air.
Avoid placing your fiddle leaf fig near air conditioners, heaters, or drafty windows. Temperature fluctuations can stress the plant, causing leaf drop or browning at the edges.
Watering Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Fiddle leaf figs prefer consistent watering but are prone to root rot if overwatered.
Water your plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering once every 1-2 weeks, depending on environmental factors like humidity and sunlight.
Over-Watering: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or brown spots indicate that the roots may be too wet.
Under-Watering: Dry, crispy leaf edges and drooping indicate that the plant needs more water.
Use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape, reducing the chance of root rot. Empty any standing water from the saucer about 15-20 minutes after watering.
Soil
Fiddle leaf figs prefer a well-draining potting mix. A soil blend containing peat, perlite, and pine bark is ideal.
Avoid heavy soils, which can retain excess moisture and lead to root rot.
Repotting
Repot your fiddle leaf fig every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot.
Signs it’s time to repot include roots poking out of drainage holes or soil that dries out very quickly after watering.
Repot during the growing season (spring or early summer) to minimize stress, moving to a pot just 1-2 inches larger than the current one.
Opt for a pot with adequate drainage holes. Ceramic or clay pots are good options because they allow the soil to dry out more evenly, but any material works as long as drainage is provided.
Fertilizing and Nutrient Requirements
Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer (e.g., a 10-10-10 or 3-1-2 N-P-K formula) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) for optimal results.
Fiddle leaf figs typically don’t need fertilizer during the dormant winter months.
Over-fertilizing can lead to salt build-up in the soil and burn the roots, so dilute the fertilizer to half-strength if needed.
If the leaves are pale or yellowing without signs of over-watering, this may indicate a nitrogen deficiency. Adding a balanced fertilizer can help improve leaf color and growth.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for a fuller, healthier plant. It encourages branching, allowing you to shape the plant as it grows. Prune away any damaged, dead, or lower leaves that don’t receive light.
Use sterilized pruning shears to trim the stem about half an inch above a node (the point where a leaf connects to the stem).
This encourages new growth, particularly if you’re aiming for a bushier appearance.
Shaping and Styling
Bushier Look: Trim the top of the plant to encourage side shoots and a fuller shape.
Single Stalk: Remove side leaves as the plant grows taller, leaving a more tree-like appearance.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Propagation
The most common method is through stem cuttings. To propagate, choose a healthy stem with one or two leaves, and cut it just below a node (the point where a leaf is attached to the stem) using clean, sharp scissors.
Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring that the node is submerged, as this is where new roots will emerge.
Position the jar in bright, indirect sunlight, and change the water weekly to keep it fresh. Within a few weeks, you should see roots beginning to form.
Once the roots are a few inches long, you can transplant the cutting into well-draining soil, where it will continue to grow as a new plant.
Propagation works best in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, and it can take patience, as rooting can sometimes take several weeks.
Common Pest Management
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Signs of an infestation are small webs, sticky residue, or tiny white insects on the leaves.
Keep the plant clean by wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth regularly.
Neem oil or insecticidal soap is effective for treating pests. Keep infested plants separate from others to prevent the spread.
If pests persist, use a mild, plant-safe pesticide.
Troubleshooting Common Fiddle Leaf Fig Issues
Leaf Drop
Leaf drop often occurs due to sudden changes in light, temperature, or watering routines. Try to maintain consistent conditions and avoid moving the plant frequently.
Brown Spots
Dry Spots: If the spots are crispy and brown, under-watering or dry air could be the cause.
Mushy Spots: Over-watering or bacterial infections can cause soft, dark spots on leaves.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing may indicate over-watering or poor lighting. Check soil moisture and light conditions to adjust accordingly.
Reviving a Struggling Plant
If your fiddle leaf fig is struggling, start by inspecting its roots. Gently remove the plant from its pot to check for root rot (mushy, dark roots).
Trim any affected roots, repot in fresh soil, and provide adequate light and water.
Interesting Plant Care Guides
FAQs for Fiddle Leaf Fig Care
How much light does it need?
Bright, indirect light is essential. If the plant isn’t thriving, consider a grow light.
How often should I water it?
About once a week or when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry.
Why are the leaves dropping?
This may be due to temperature changes, light fluctuations, or inconsistent watering.
What should I do with brown spots?
Identify if the issue is over- or under-watering and adjust care accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Growing a fiddle leaf fig can be challenging, especially for beginners. However, once you get the hang of it the results can be immensely rewarding.
Fiddle leaf figs are beautiful house plants which makes them a common favorite for both plant enthusiasts and interior decorators.
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