Fiddle Leaf Fig care: Tips for a healthy ficus lyrata

Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata) is a lovely evergreen plant that originated in the tropical lowlands of western Africa. It belongs to the Moraceae family, which also includes figs and mulberries. The name Fiddle Leaf comes from the fact that its leaves are large and shaped like violins, making it a beautiful addition to any room.

One of its most distinguishing qualities is that the shape of its leaves varies with age. Unlike many plants, whose leaves maintain their shape once they are grown, this plant has some foliage variations, making it interesting to observe during its growth process.

However, keeping the Fiddle Leaf Fig in top condition can be a bit demanding. This variety acts similarly to other figs by being prone to environmental changes, especially during cold seasons. Nevertheless, with just a little patience and proper care, this plant will flourish well and bring out the amazing lushness of a tropical atmosphere into one’s household.

Learning proper care techniques is key to keeping Fiddle Leaf Fig healthy. Growcycle offers a wide selection of gardening products, from soil mixes to care tools, designed to grow Fiddle Leaf Fig into a thriving indoor plant. 

Key Features of Fiddle Leaf Fig

Here are some key characteristics of the Fiddle Leaf Fig, along with its unique attributes and care requirements:

• Size and Growth

When cultivated outside in its natural habitat, the Fiddle Leaf Fig can grow up to 600 inches tall, making it a very large tree. However, indoors, it grows upwards to about 120 inches tall, although some can grow even taller with good care. Regular pruning helps manage its growth and keeps it in shape.

• Light and Soil Preferences

This plant is best suited for part shade with bright but indirect sunlight. It thrives on loamy, well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 7. If the soil absorbs too much water, the roots may drown, causing root rot. A medium moisture level should be maintained so that the plant has enough water without being overwatered.

• Flowering and Hardiness

Even though it doesn’t have notable flowers, the Fiddle Leaf Fig does bloom, but only within its native region. Its fruiting flowers are considered irrelevant, so they rarely occur beyond tropical regions. This plant thrives best in hardiness zones 10-12, which means that it is suitable for warm and tropical climates. However, it does well indoors as long as it is away from extreme cold or heat.

• Toxicity Warning

It’s worth noting that Fiddle Leaf Fig is toxic to both humans and animals if consumed. The sap from this plant contains substances that might cause skin irritations or more severe reactions, so it is better kept out of the reach of toddlers and pets who like exploring things by putting them into their mouths.

Essential Care Tips to Grow Fiddle Leaf Fig

Following are some essential care tips that will help to make the process easy for plant lovers to grow Fiddle Leaf Fig healthy:

• Light

In its natural habitat, the Fiddle Leaf Fig flourishes in the tropical lowlands of Western Africa, where conditions are warm and intermittent light showers are received. To replicate this indoors, the Fiddle Leaf Fig needs bright indirect sunlight with occasional sun exposure for some hours during the day.

Placing it close to a well lit window ensures that the plant receives enough sunlight; however, it should not be placed too far away from the window, as this will limit access to necessary light.

This plant depends on sunlight to make food through photosynthesis. Due to its big leaves, it needs more light than other indoor plants. When it doesn’t get adequate light, it shows signs of stress through wilted leaves. Maintaining the ideal level of light is crucial not only for proper growth but also for the overall health of the plant.

• Watering

Fiddle Leaf Fig should be watered well and placed in environments that are right for lighting and temperature. A general principle is that it should be watered every 1–2 weeks, depending on the amount of light available and the room’s heat.

Watering should be done with about one-quarter to one-third of the pot volume to ensure the soil is appropriately moist without causing excess waterlogging. After watering, allow the soil to completely dry before the next watering session. It is important to note that under bright light conditions, more frequent watering may be necessary, while under low light conditions, the plant will require less water.

The color of the leaves can indicate whether the plant is over or under-watered. Soggy yellow leaves indicate overwatering, while crispy curled leaves indicate that the plant needs more moisture. Ensuring the Fiddle Leaf Fig receives the right amount of water is crucial for its health.

• Temperature and Humidity

For indoors, it is good if Fiddle Leaf Fig thrives under fairly constant temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F. Consequently, keeping this plant within this temperature range will ensure that it remains healthy and colorful.

Apart from temperature, humidity is another important aspect. The best humidity levels for these plants are around 30%—65%. Because indoor air tends to be dry, particularly during winter months, increasing humidity around the plant may help. An effective way of doing this is to use a humidifier, which adds moisture to the air.

• Fertilizers

Fiddle Leaf Figs must be fertilized to support their growth and overall health. The plant should be given a high nitrogen fertilizer once every month, which boosts strong leaf development and vibrant foliage.

For best results, select water-soluble pellets or liquid fertilizers for indoor plants. Special formulas for Fiddle Leaf Figs also give them proper nutrients. These fertilizers can easily be applied by mixing them with water.

During the spring and summer growing periods, one can observe its lush green leaves and vigorous growth due to the application of fertilizers. However, it’s better to avoid excessive use of manure since it causes the accumulation of minerals in the soil, eventually harming the plant.

• Pruning

Pruning is another important part of plant care as it keeps the plant healthy and formed. Always prune during late spring or summer, as this is the period when the plant is growing vigorously, hence enabling fast healing with fresh growth. Clean cuts using sharp hand pruners should be made at a 45-degree angle on the leaf node. This prevents harm to the stems or main trunk of a plant.

Those who want their Fiddle Leaf Fig to appear like a tree with a branched canopy should wait until it reaches 60 inches tall. At this point, prune above a leaf node on the major stem to encourage branch formation in future periods. Pruning can further promote horizontal growth by removing excess branches that will give it a full appearance.

Growers can also use trimming to shape by removing dead leaves or cutting damaged ones. Dead leaves can be gently pulled off,   whereas brown or crispy edges could be removed. Maintain accuracy in shaping while trimming so that it follows the natural contour of a leaf.

Techniques to Grow a Thriving Ficus Lyrata

Growing a thriving Ficus Lyrata requires attention to specific techniques, which are discussed below:

Propagation in Water

To start Ficus Lyrata propagation in water, growers need a pair of strong garden shears, rooting hormone (optional), and a clear glass jar.

• First, cut off a healthy branch with at least three leaf nodes from the Fiddle Leaf Fig plant. Cut above the node at an angle of 45 degrees to encourage better root development.
• Rid the cutting off its bottom leaves so that only one or two leaves are left on the stem; this will prevent the leaves from coming into contact with water or soil during propagation.
• Place it in room temperature tap water and see through a glass container. Ensure nodes are underwater while foliage stays up from the line of water. If the cutting has large leaves, break them into halves to concentrate energy on rooting system growth.
• Place the container in a warm location with indirect bright light, as direct sunlight might scorch the cutting. Change the water weekly to ensure that it remains fresh throughout. Roots should start appearing within approximately two to three weeks.
• At this point, when they reach 1-2 inches long, move the cutting into another pot with new earth. Water it thoroughly and plant it in an area with bright, indirect light to promote continued growth.

Propagation in Soil

Gather and prepare the materials for propagating Fiddle Leaf Figs in soil. Some of the things required include pruning shears, rooting hormones, and a pot with well-drained planting soil. Choosing pots with drainage holes of at least 6 inches in diameter is essential, as it ensures sufficient water movement.

• Start by cutting off a healthy branch from a Fiddle Leaf Fig plant. Ensure that the cutting has at least three nodes where leaves can grow. Remove lower leaves from the cuttings to keep them from touching the ground after planting.
• Dipping the end of the cut branch into the rooting hormone may encourage new roots to form. Plant the prepared cuttings into containers with tightly holding potting soils so they do not fall over inside those containers.
• Growers can establish favorable conditions for root development by humidifying the container with a transparent bag or plastic humidifier. At this stage, they also need to find a warm spot within the house without direct sunlight, which might harm the plants.
• Wait for about two weeks before gently pulling on it to check if the stem has developed roots. If any resistance is experienced when tugging on the stem, it indicates that some roots are beginning to take shape.
• Once growers see a strong root system outgrowing in all directions, they should remove the plastic cover and care for the plant like an adult plant.

Potting and Repotting Process

Proper potting and repotting are important to keeping a Fiddle Leaf Fig healthy and thriving. Young plants will need to be repotted each spring.

• Select a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. The extra space will allow room for root growth and help further plant development.
• When repotting, carefully lift the plant out of its current container. Growers should hold the base of the plant as they do this to prevent damage to the roots.
• Place the plant in a new pot and fill with fresh soil mixture. Make sure the soil is uniformly dispersed and the plant is in the center of the pot.
• Growers can renew their soil instead for older Fiddle Leaf Figs that are too big to be easily repotted. In each spring season, remove about 2 or 3 inches from the topmost soil level inside the container, then fill it with fresh potting mixtures. This will help replace the nutrients lost and offer better growing conditions for the plant's roots.

Growcycle provides various first-grade quality mixes for planting alongside containers to meet all the needs of caring for this kind of tree.

Benefits and Uses of Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant

A Fiddle Leaf Fig plant has several advantages, making it a well-known plant for homes and businesses. Because of its outstanding beauty, the plant is mainly used as an indoor ornamental piece, giving rooms natural appeal. Its large, shiny leaves can increase the visual appeal of any room.

• Air Purification and Oxygen Production

Among the most valuable benefits of Fiddle Leaf Fig is its ability to purify the air. Like many other indoor plants, this one helps to eliminate toxic substances by producing fresh air through oxygen. This means that not only does it look nice, but it also serves as an important item in maintaining a healthy atmosphere for both personal residence and workplace.

• Connection to Nature and Stress Reduction

In urban areas where nature can sometimes feel far away, Fiddle Leaf Fig can help to cover this gap. Such bonds have been shown to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being, thereby making them ideal for houses or offices where relaxation and tranquility matter most. Its calming touch can convert any sterile space into something that feels more balanced or inviting.

• Therapeutic Benefits

Taking care of a Fiddle Leaf Fig plant can be considered a therapeutic activity. In addition to helping manage stress, physically caring for the plant (by simply watering it) allows individuals to practice mindfulness, thus enhancing their mental wellness.

Common Problems and Solutions of Fiddle Leaf Fig

Generally, Fiddle Leaf Figs do well under various conditions. However, this plant can still face some problems. Finding the solution to these problems as soon as they crop up is necessary to ensure they remain healthy and functional.

• Bleached Leaves

Bleached leaves can be observed as light brown or faded dots on the top side of the leaves. This condition results from excessive direct exposure to the sun and is also called leaf scorch or leaf sunburn.

To fix this problem, change the plant to an area with filtered bright lights, such as close to a window pane with morning sunshine. Gardeners should avoid placing it directly under sunlight, which would worsen the problem.

• Brown Spots on Leaves

Mostly dark brown spots or browning edges on Fiddle Leaf Fig’s leaves signal root rot that is usually caused by too much watering or when one places the plant pot in stagnated water.

Leave out any heavily spotted leaves, then repot into fresh, drainage-rich soil. Regulate the water requirements by letting the soil dry between watering intervals while preventing it from sitting in excess water. 

• Yellowing Leaves

When new leaves become yellow on the Fiddle Leaf Fig plant, it may be due to bacterial infection, which could pose a management challenge. To stop the spread of contagion, start by removing all affected foliage.

Afterward, put the infected plant into another potted container that contains clean, healthy soil, which will lessen the chances of further contamination. Additionally, isolate the infected plant from other surrounding plants to avoid the multiplication of bacteria through contact with others.

• Pests and Diseases

Fiddle Leaf Figs can sometimes attract pests like spider mites, scale insects, and fungal diseases. This plant's large and distinct leaves make it easy to see when something is wrong.

If there are pests, look out for signs such as spots, dark patches, or white webbing on the leaves. These signs suggest that spider mites or scale insects have attacked the Fiddle Leaf Fig pant. If growers find any of these signs, they must apply neem or horticultural oil by following the instructions given on the product, which effectively removes these insects.

If unusual spots or molds characterize fungal infections, fungicides may help cure and control the condition. Meanwhile, if, despite this effort, the problem continues, one should use pesticides against even more obstinate infestations.

FAQ’s

What is the lifespan of a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Indoor plants can reach full maturity in 15 years or less. Houseplants usually live between 25 and 50 years, but the life span of a healthy and maintained plant may be prolonged.

Is it possible to grow a Fiddle Leaf Fig outdoors?

Fiddle Leaf Fig trees can grow outdoors but only in areas with tropical climates like the one they are originally from. The best living conditions for them are hot and damp, like their natural habitat.

Is a Fiddle Leaf Fig toxic to pets?

Yes, Fiddle Leaf Figs are harmful to cats and dogs. The plant contains a white sap with calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate a pet’s mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines if ingested or if it comes into contact with their skin. 

The Bottom Line

Maintaining a Fiddle Leaf Fig requires understanding and satisfying its particular needs to ensure its continued strength and liveliness. The plant's owners can promote robust growth and beautiful leaves by properly providing appropriate lighting, watering, and maintaining the right temperature and humidity.

Regular trimming, careful multiplication, and timely repotting are also essential to keeping this plant in good condition. Watching these plants carefully for pest infestations or diseases that may be common will also prevent them from escalating into severe cases.

Visit Growcycle to explore all the products, tools, and supplies required to grow this essential and useful plant indoors or outdoors. Growers will find all this equipment, from moisture gauges to plant fertilizers, to simplify the gardening experience!

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.