Fiddle leaf figs are both extraordinary and stunning in appearance, but they can be a little bit of a “diva.” This is due to the fact that they are extremely sensitive to their environment, and they show you they’re unhappy by, unfortunately, dropping their lovely leaves.
How do I take care of a fiddle leaf fig?
Whether you already have a fiddle leaf fig or you’re thinking about getting one, you may be wondering the best way to take care of them. While they can be finicky plants, they’re not impossible to take care of. Following these fiddle leaf fig care tips well help you one your way!
1. Lighting
One thing that fiddle leaf figs are very sensitive to is light. While it thrives in adequate lighting, your leaves will be scorched in direct sunlight. Basically, it should never be casting a shadow. A north or east-facing window will be best if they receive adequate lighting. A south or west-facing window can work, if it’s never being hit by direct sunlight!
Without adequate lighting, your risk problems like:
- Drooping
- Brown spots
- Leaf dropping
- Yellowing leaves
- Insect infestation
2. Watering
Knowing when and how to water your fiddle leaf fig is key. The “cup method” is best for watering, as figs don’t like to be overwatered. When the top 2-3 inches of soil are dried out, you know it’s probably getting thirsty. Measure how tall your tree is from soil to the top-most leaf and following this guide:
- 2 feet tall or less: 1 cup of water/week
- 2-3 feet tall: 2 cups of water/week
- 3-6 feet tall: 3 cups of water/week
- Taller than 6 feet: 4 cups of water/week or until you start to notice water draining out of the bottom
When in doubt, you can always buy a water meter!
While overwatering can lead to root rot (noted by “dark brown or black spots around the edges or veins of the lower leaves”), letting it dry out can cause leaves to droop, drop, or develop dry spots.
3. Potting mix
Wait to move your new fiddle leaf fig into a new pot until after about a month of being in its new location, this will give it enough time to adjust to its environment! When it’s ready to be repotted, you’ll want to make sure you choose a pot that has both good drainage and is only about 2-3 inches bigger than the tree’s root ball (they like to be root bound and this will ensure it’s not getting adequate water!)
The soil should be both light and well-draining. You can buy Premium Fiddle Leaf Fig potting soil or mix a 50/50 ratio of standard indoor potting soil and a cactus/succulent blend. You can also try a variation of soil, coco coir/husk, perlite, and activated charcoal.
4. Climate
Fiddle leaf figs are tropical plants, so they prefer their climate to be warm and humid. 60-85ºF and about 50% humidity will be the perfect conditions! If you live in a more dry climate, you will want to set a humidifier up near your tree or use a pebble tray.
Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that your fig is not placed near any drafty doors or windows, or near any A/C units or vents. The additional wind will cause damaged, dried out leaves.
5. Fertilizing
To ensure adequate growth, you’ll want to fertilize your fiddle leaf fig during its growing season. In the spring and summer, feed it with a liquid fertilizer containing 3 parts nitrogen (N), 2 parts phosphorus (P), and 1 part potassium (K) about once a month. Sticking to a schedule will help you get those big, shiny leaves that we love so much (and grow nice and tall, too)!
6. Pruning
Another excellent way to get your fiddle leaf fig thriving is to prune it (as much as we hate to do it). Notching, pinching, and pruning is the best way to encourage new growth on your fig tree. Follow these tips to do it:
- Notch your tree by creating a little cut or notch in the tree where you want a new branch to form
- Pinch by cutting off new growth at the top of your tree to encourage new growth from the top
- Prune around the rest of the tree by cutting off leaves and potentially branches. This helps to encourage more growth, remove dead leaves, and promote airflow in crowded areas!
7. Re-Potting
Fiddle Leaf Figs love to their roots to be pot-bound. Re-potting it every 1 or 2 years keeps it growing strong and healthy. The best time to upgrade it’s home is during the spring or early summer, so the warm weather encourages new growth.
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Watch my video for more fiddle leaf care tips!