Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) sometimes gets a finicky reputation. It's not the easiest houseplant to grow, but its lovely large leaves and tree form make it worth a little effort and a good choice even for the beginning gardener. These small trees are well adapted to indoor temperatures and filtered light and are hardy enough to survive less-than-ideal conditions.
If you have a window that receives bright morning light you can grow this fig. Plant in quality soil, establish a consistent watering schedule and it grows reliably and fairly quickly to between six and ten feet tall with little fuss. Fiddle leaf fig is toxic to people and pets.
-
Place your plant near a window to receive filtered light.
-
Plant in quality houseplant soil and repot young trees annually.
-
Avoid overwatering and aim to keep soil moderately moist.
-
Add support for the main stem.
-
Rotate the pot every few days so all foliage faces the source of light.
-
Dust the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to boost photosynthesis.
Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light for about six hours of the day. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, if it's in a west-facing window exposed to hot afternoon sun. Plants adapt to low light but grow more slowly and may develop brown spots on lower leaves. Inadequate light can contribute to drainage issues so plan to adjust the watering schedule in low-light conditions. Fiddle leaf figs like a moderate amount of moisture in the soil, so water the plant when the top inch or so of soil is dry. If the plant doesn’t get enough water, leaves wilt and lose their bright green color. Too much water and it might drop leaves and succumb to root rot.
These plants are sensitive to high salt levels in the soil. Salts can accumulate from clay pots, treated water, and fertilizers. Once a month, flush soil several times until water comes out of the bottom drainage holes to prevent salt build-up.
Brown Spots on Leaves
Dark brown spot or browning edges are an indication of root rot due to overwatering or letting the plant sit in water. Check roots and remove any that are brown and mushy. Trim back spotted leaves and repot in fresh, dry soil. Adjust your watering schedule.
Temperature fluctuations also cause dark brown spots. Check for drafts and relocate to a spot with consistent temperatures if necessary.
Yellowing Leaves
If new leaves are yellowing, the plant may have a bacterial infection. This is tougher to correct but try removing affected leaves and repotting in fresh soil. Isolate it until it recovers.
Dropping Leaves
If your fiddle leaf fig is dropping green leaves, it's often because it's not getting enough light or it's experience temperature extremes. Assess the plant's light situation and move it away from drafty or particularly hot areas.
