Household: care tips for a fiddle leaf fig plant
Fiddle leaf fig plants are known for their striking beauty and have become a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts. However, caring for a fiddle leaf fig can be quite challenging, and many plant owners struggle to keep their plants healthy and vibrant. In this blog post, we’ll share some useful care tips for a fiddle leaf fig plant to help you keep it healthy and thriving
Light
Fiddle-leaf figs require bright, indirect light to thrive. Place your plant near a window that receives plenty of natural light, but avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it can become leggy and weak, and its leaves can turn yellow and drop off.
If you don’t have a suitable window that provides enough light, you can supplement with artificial light. Invest in a full-spectrum grow light and set it up to mimic natural light. Keep the grow light on for 12 to 14 hours a day to ensure your fiddle leaf fig gets enough light to thrive
Water
However, they don’t like to stand in still water. Fiddle leaf fig plants prefer to grow in moist soil. When the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch on your plant, water it. Don’t overwater your plant; rather, water it deeply enough that the water reaches the roots. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be harmful to your plant.
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To water your fiddle leaf fig, fill a watering can with room-temperature water and pour it over the soil. Make sure the water drains out of the pot’s drainage holes, and discard any excess water. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal infections.
Humidity
Fiddle-leaf figs are native to tropical rainforests, where they thrive in humid conditions. To create the right environment for your fiddle-leaf fig, you’ll need to increase the humidity around the plant.
Increased humidity can be achieved in a number of ways around your fiddle leaf fig. If you want to add moisture to the air, put a humidifier close to your plant. As an alternative, you might set a tray of water close to your plant and set the pot on top of that. As the water evaporates, the plant’s surroundings will become humidy
There are several ways to increase humidity around your fiddle leaf fig. You can place a humidifier near your plant to add moisture to the air. Alternatively, you can place a tray of water near your plant and place the pot on top of it. The water will evaporate and create humidity around the plant.
Temperature
Fiddle leaf fig plants prefer to be in a warm environment, with temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near draughty windows or air conditioning units, as this can cause temperature fluctuations that can stress the plant.
If you live in a colder climate or have a draughty home, you may need to provide additional heat to your plant. You can use a space heater or a heating mat to keep your plant warm and comfortable
Soil
Fiddle leaf fig plants prefer to be in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This will provide your plant with the right balance of moisture and nutrients.
Avoid using heavy garden soil or potting mixes that contain large amounts of sand or clay, as they can prevent water from draining properly and can suffocate the roots.
Fertilizer
Fiddle leaf fig plants need regular fertilisation to stay healthy and grow well. Use a balanced fertiliser that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize your plant every four to six weeks during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall.
To fertilise your fiddle leaf fig, dilute the fertiliser in water according to the package instructions and water your plant as you normally would.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of fiddle leaf fig care, as it helps to keep your plant healthy and looking its best Pruning fiddle leaf fig .Pruning a fiddle leaf fig is an essential part of its care routine, as it promotes healthy growth and maintains a desirable shape. To begin, start by assessing the plant’s growth and identifying any dead, damaged or diseased leaves or branches.
These should be removed using a sharp, sterile pruning tool to prevent any further damage to the plant. Next, decide on the shape you want to achieve and selectively prune the branches accordingly, making clean cuts just above a node or leaf. Avoid pruning more than a third of the plant at once, as this can cause stress and impact its overall health.
It’s important to also clean your tools with alcohol after each use to avoid the spread of disease. Lastly, make sure to provide your fiddle leaf fig with proper lighting, watering, and fertilization to promote healthy growth and maintain its overall health.
FAQ
How frequently should my fiddle leaf fig be watered?
When the top inch of soil seems dry, water your fiddle leaf fig. This usually entails watering every 7 to 10 days, though the frequency may change according on the humidity and lighting.
What type of lighting is necessary for a fiddle leaf fig?
Bright, indirect light is preferred by fiddle leaf figs. They certainly require enough of light to thrive, but stay out of direct sunlight since it might scorch their leaves.
How can I stop the leaves on my fiddle leaf fig from falling?
Make sure you water your plants consistently—not too much or too little—avoid drafts or abrupt temperature swings, and maintain a suitable humidity level. To keep the leaves clean, dust them off on a regular basis.
My fiddle leaf fig needs fertilisation, right?
Yes, use a balanced houseplant fertiliser on your fiddle leaf fig during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilise little or not at all throughout the autumn and winter dormant season.
How should my fiddle leaf fig be repotted?
Every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot, repot your fiddle leaf fig. Use well-draining soil, pick a container that is only slightly larger than the existing one, and handle the roots with care.
What should I do if my fiddle leaf fig has brown spots on its leaves?
Brown spots can indicate various issues such as overwatering, underwatering, or pests. Assess the watering schedule, check for pests (like spider mites), and adjust care accordingly.
Can I trim the figs on my fiddle leaf?
Indeed, trimming promotes growth and aids in keeping a desirable shape. Trim any lanky growth or broken leaves with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
How can I share my fiddle leaf fig with others?
Stem cuttings are a viable method of propagating fiddle leaf figs. Once roots begin to form, take a cutting that has a few leaves and a node, put it in water or straight in the soil, and keep it in a warm, humid spot.
Can I trim the figs on my fiddle leaf?
Certainly, pruning promotes development and aids in keeping a desirable shape. Trim any lanky growth or broken leaves with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Is it normal for my fiddle leaf fig to drop leaves?
Some leaf drop is normal as older leaves naturally yellow and fall off. However, sudden or excessive leaf drop can indicate stress from over or underwatering, temperature changes, or inadequate light.
How do I clean my fiddle leaf fig’s leaves?
Gently wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and allow the plant to absorb light efficiently. Avoid using leaf shine products, as these can clog leaf pores.