1.- About Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Fiddle leaf figs are one of the most popular houseplants around and for good reason. These beautiful tropical plants are not only easy to care for, but they also purify the air and boost your mood. However, these plants are indigenous to the tropical regions of Africa, which means that they thrive in extremely hot and humid circumstances.

This can make them relatively difficult for the amateur grower to replicate. Nevertheless, these plants are relatively resilient and can endure a less-than-ideal environment for an extended period.

The fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a popular indoor tree with upright, violin-shaped leaves that are quite big, glossy, and densely veined. A fiddle-leaf fig is the ideal focal point for a room if it can be placed in a floor-standing container and allowed to grow to a height of at least 6 feet. (Most indoor plants are approximately 10 feet tall.)

It grows relatively quickly and may be potted at any time of the year if, like most gardeners, you want to keep it indoors. Consider that this beautiful plant is poisonous to cats and dogs. If you’re looking for a plant that will make a statement in your home, the fiddle-leaf fig is a perfect choice.

With its large, striking leaves, it’s sure to turn heads and become the centerpiece of any room. Just be sure to keep it out of reach of pets and small children, as its poisonous nature can cause serious illness or even death.

Additionally, research has shown that having plants in your house will have amazing benefits for you! Visit our article Amazing Psychological Effects of Nature in Pet-Friendly Interiors to find out more!

Selecting the Best soil for Fiddle Leaf Fig A fiddle-leaf fig can be grown successfully in almost any type of high-quality potting mix for indoor plants. Make sure there is adequate drainage in the soil.

2.- The Best light for Fiddle Leaf Fig

In order to thrive as plants and look their best, fiddle-leaf figs require bright light that has been filtered. The fiddle leaf fig leaves are susceptible to harm when they are subjected to too much direct sunlight, particularly when exposed to the severe heat of the afternoon. Plants that are produced in settings where there is very little light will not grow very quickly.

However, if they are given the proper care, fiddle-leaf figs can be a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to any home. When choosing a location for your fiddle-leaf fig, it is important to remember that the plant will need bright, indirect light to thrive.

A spot near a south- or west-facing window is ideal, but the plant can also do well in a brightly lit room that does not receive direct sunlight. If you notice that the leaves of your fiddle-leaf fig are turning yellow or brown, it is likely an indication that the plant is not getting enough light. Increasing the amount of light your plant receives can help it regain its vibrant color and healthy growth.

Costa Farms Ficus Lyrata, Little Fiddle

3.- How to Water Fiddle Leaf Figs

As indoor plants, they are popular for their large, lush leaves. But while they may be beautiful, these plants can be finicky when it comes to watering. Fiddle-leaf figs require a modest level of soil moisture, and if the plant does not receive enough water, its leaves will droop and turn yellow, so knowing how to water and clean fiddle leaf leaves is very important. 

And if it receives too much water, the plant may lose its leaves and develop root rot, which can ultimately be fatal. During the growing season (spring through autumn), water your fiddle-leaf fig when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. And during the winter months, water less. In addition, these plants are susceptible to soils with high salt concentrations.

Therefore, it is best to flush the soil until the water exits the bottom of the container at least once a month. With proper care, your fiddle-leaf fig will thrive and bring beauty to your home for years to come.

4.- How to Fertilize Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Your fiddle-leaf fig will need a nutrient boost during its growing season, which generally lasts from spring until fall. Look for a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and follow the application instructions on the container. You may also want to consider investing in a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for use with fiddle-leaf figs.

Most plants need a break from feeding during winter, but your fiddle-leaf fig will likely appreciate a light feeding even during these dormant months. By giving your fiddle-leaf fig the nutrients it needs, you can help it grow strong and healthy leaves that will envy all your houseplant-loving friends.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree – Floor Plant

5.- Best Temperature and Humidity for Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Fiddle-leaf figs grow under the canopy of rainforests; therefore, they are sensitive to changes in temperature and prefer a stable environment. When cultivated indoors, they should be kept in a room with an ambient temperature between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

They should also be protected from drafty locations, such as air conditioning and heating vents, as these can cause fluctuations in temperature that can harm the plant. Relative humidity should be maintained at between 30 and 65 percent. If your fiddle-leaf fig requires additional humidity, you can spritz it daily with clean water from a spray bottle.

Alternately, you can place the pot on a tray of stones filled with water, as long as the bottom of the pot is not submerged. In addition, fiddle-leaf figs can benefit from the use of a humidifier. By following these simple guidelines, you can create an ideal environment for your fiddle-leaf fig and help it thrive.

6.- How to Propagate a Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

There are two primary methods of propagating fiddle-leaf figs – through stem cuttings or by growing from seed. Of the two, stem cuttings are generally considered to be easier, as they have a higher success rate and require less effort overall. When taking a stem cutting, choosing a healthy, disease-free section of the stem that is at least 12-18 inches long is important.

The cutting should also have a few leaves, although one can be removed if necessary. Once the cutting has been taken, it should be placed in clean water in a warm location with bright, indirect light. The water should be changed regularly; after a few weeks, white lumps should begin forming on the stem’s base.

These lumps indicate that roots are beginning to form, and once they have reached a sufficient size, the cutting can be transplanted into a pot filled with moist potting soil. With proper care, the cutting will continue to grow and thrive, eventually developing into a full-fledged fiddle-leaf fig tree.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Live Tree

7.- Fiddle Leaf Tree – Common Pests and Diseases

While these plants are not especially prone to pests or sicknesses, there are a few types of infections to be aware of. These include spider mites, scale, and various bacterial or fungal diseases. Tell-tale signs of these problems include leaf damage in the form of spots or dark patches and small insects on the leaves themselves.

If you notice any of these issues, it is crucial to act fast and apply the necessary fungicide, insecticide, or other treatment. In addition, you should make sure that your plant has proper air circulation and is not sitting in excessively moist conditions, as this can help prevent future problems.

Additionally, a fiddle-leaf fig plant can be sensitive to its environment and watering schedule. Therefore, the behavior of its leaves can indicate if something is amiss. The plant may develop spots on its leaves or lose leaves rapidly at times. Be vigilant for the earliest symptoms of leaf distress.

If you notice any changes in the appearance of your plant’s leaves, take a closer look at its environment and watering schedule. Adjusting these factors can help restore your plant to good health.

If you notice that your plant’s leaves are pale brown or bleached, it may be getting too much sun. One way to tell if the leaves are sunburned or scorched is by looking for brown blotches or brown margins. If you see either of these, move the plant out of direct sunlight.

If green leaves develop brown spots or drop leaves, the plant may have root rot from too much water. To check for this:

1. Look for dark, mushy roots.
2. If you find any, remove them along with the leaves with brown spots.
3. Repot the plant and be sure not to overwater it in the future.

Yellowing or dropping leaves on your fiddle-leaf fig usually signals that the plant is getting too much or too little water. If you suspect your plant is getting too much water, check the soil. If it’s soggy or waterlogged, reduce watering, so the soil is just moist.

You should also remove the plant from HVAC systems, vents, and drafty spaces. If you suspect your plant is getting too little water, increase watering, so the soil is moist but not soggy. You should also make sure the plant is in a well-lit location.

Extreme temperature variations can also cause leaf drop, so remove the plant from HVAC systems, vents, and drafty spaces if you suspect this is the issue. If you’re still having trouble, you can try repotting the plant in fresh soil.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Live Tree

8.- When should I repot my Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree?

Spring is the perfect time to give your juvenile fiddle-leaf fig a fresh start. When choosing a new pot, go for one that is 2 inches wider in diameter than the previous one. Gently dislodge the plant from its current pot and remove it while supporting its base. Set the plant in the new container and fill the voids around it with fresh potting soil.

Once the plant has reached maturity, you will likely need to repot it every few years. Every spring, simply remove and replace the top few inches of soil. If you plan on performing the potting work outdoors, be sure to wait until the temperature is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and this will help prevent shock to your plant.

9.- How to prune a Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant

A fiddle-leaf fig is a beautiful, unique plant that can add some life to any room. Though they’re often seen as high-maintenance, with a little bit of care, they can thrive. One important thing to remember is to clip the leaves every once in a while.

This may seem counterintuitive – why cut off perfectly good leaves? – but it’s actually beneficial to the plant. Removing broken leaves, extra growth, or branches crossing each other helps the plant focus its energy on the remaining leaves and branches, making them stronger.

If you want to get rid of a brown, dead leaf, take it off carefully rather than attempting to cut it first since it might just come off on its own. With proper care, your fiddle-leaf fig will bring you enjoyment for years to come.

Fiddle Leaf Fig – Large, Tree – 8-10 Inch Pot

10.- Final Thoughts

Begin by finding the perfect spot in your home – one with natural light and no drafts – then decide if any plants in your collection are toxic to pets or children. Suppose there is a fiddle leaf tree among your plants; special fiddle leaf tree care, like rotating it weekly and keeping humidity high, is essential.

To make sure sunlight levels are optimum for your houseplants, use natural light when available and supplement with grow lights in low-light areas – often checking with a moisture meter. For extra humidity, purchase a humidifier.

As for pests, talk it out (yes, really!) or use some plant-friendly solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap; no need to resort to harsh chemicals. Whatever trend you follow – hanging gardens, pet-friendly indoor trees, or something else – make sure you’re not skimping on essential fertilizer that will help keep your plants beautiful and healthy.

And don’t forget to inspect regularly for common stress signs such as wilting leaves or too much waterlogging – these simple measures can save tons of hassle down the road!

Care for Fiddle Leaf Trees– FAQ

Is it difficult to care for a fiddle leaf plant?

No, fiddle leaf fig care is easy, but it is important to understand your plant’s needs. They are a type of tropical plant, so they need warm temperatures and bright, indirect light. They also prefer slightly moist soil and high humidity.

How big does a Fiddle Leaf Fig grow? 

This plant can attain a height of 6 feet or more when cultivated indoors in our environment. Younger trees can be placed on shelves briefly while they are still little. As they mature, they are often utilized as floor plants. Numerous factors influence the eventual height, spread, and performance of a plant.

Do Fiddle Leaf Figs need humidity?

Normal room humidity is sufficient, but this plant will benefit from higher humidity; leaf crispness can indicate that more humidity (as well as more frequent waterings) is required.

Is fiddle leaf fig care easy to learn?

Yes, fiddle leaf fig care is easy to learn, and once you understand your plant’s needs, it is easy to provide the proper care.

What’s the best water temperature for my fiddle leaf plant?

Like with all tropical plants, you want to water with room temperature water.