The top 10 fiddle leaf fig plant: care tips you need to know

Fiddle leaf fig plants have become a popular houseplant choice in recent years, and for good reason. Their large, distinctive leaves add a touch of nature and elegance to any indoor space. However, as with any plant, fiddle leaf fig plants require specific care to thrive. In this article, we’ll provide you with the top 10 fiddle leaf plant care tips you need to know.

Humidity requirements for fiddle fig leaf

Humidity: Fiddle Leaf Plants thrive in high humidity levels. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near your plant, misting the leaves with water regularly, or placing a humidifier near the plant.

Soil: Fiddle Leaf Fig plants require well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Use a soil mix that contains perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite to provide proper drainage and nutrients. 

Fertilizer: Fiddle Leaf Fig plants benefit from regular fertilisation during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser every 4-6 weeks to provide your plant with necessary nutrients.

Temperature: Fiddle fig leaf plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing your plant near draughts or in areas with extreme temperature changes, as this can cause stress to the plant

Repotting: Fiddle Leaf Fig plants typically need to be repotted every 1-2 years or when the roots have outgrown the current pot. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, as fiddle leaf plants prefer to be slightly rootbound.

Pest Control: Fiddle Leaf Plants are generally pest-free but can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Check your plant regularly for signs of pests or diseases and address any issues promptly.Patience: fiddle leaf plants can be slow-growing and may take time to adjust to their new environment. Be patient and avoid over-watering or over-fertilizing, as this can stress the plant.

Light requirements for fiddle leaf fig indoors

Fiddle leaf figs require bright, indirect light when grown indoors. They should be placed near a window that receives bright, filtered sunlight, or in a well-lit room with plenty of natural light.

Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of a fiddle leaf fig, so it’s important to avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight. However, if your fiddle leaf fig isn’t getting enough light, its growth may slow down or its leaves may become pale or droopy.

If you don’t have a spot with enough natural light, you can also supplement with artificial lighting. Grow lights can be a good option for fiddle leaf figs, providing the right spectrum of light for the plant’s growth. Position the grow light a few feet away from the plant and keep it on for 10-12 hours a day.

It’s also important to rotate your fiddle leaf fig every few weeks, as it will grow toward the light source and can become lopsided or uneven if not rotated regularly.

Cleaning the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig

Cleaning the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig is an important part of its care routine, as it helps to remove dust and debris that can block the pores of the plant, and prevent it from absorbing sunlight and air.

To clean the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig, follow these steps:

Add a few drops of mild dish soap to a spray bottle of lukewarm water.

Spray the solution onto a soft, clean cloth or paper towel, and gently wipe the leaves of your plant.

Be sure to clean both the top and bottom of each leaf, and avoid pulling or tearing the leaves.

If your plant has large leaves, you can also clean them by placing them in the shower and giving them a gentle rinse with lukewarm water.

Once you have finished cleaning the leaves, gently pat them dry with a clean towel or let them air dry.

Repeat this process every few weeks or as needed to keep your fiddle leaf fig looking healthy and vibrant.

Pot requirements for fiddle leaf fig

Choosing the right pot for your fiddle leaf fig is important for its overall health and growth. Here are some potency requirements to keep in mind:

Size: Fiddle leaf figs tend to be slightly root-bound, so choose a pot that is only a little larger than the existing one. Too much moisture can be retained by a huge pot, which can cause root rot.

Drainage: Ensure that the pot contains holes for drainage so that any extra water can be drained.  By doing this, water will not build up in the soil and lead to root rot. 

Material: Choose a pot made from a porous material, such as terracotta or ceramic, that will allow air and water to pass through. Plastic pots can retain too much moisture, which can lead to root rot.

Depth: Fiddle leaf figs have deep roots, so choose a pot that is deep enough to accommodate them.

Stability: Fiddle leaf figs can grow quite tall and become top-heavy, so choose a pot that is stable and won’t tip over. You may need to add some weight to the bottom of the pot or use a plant stand to provide extra stability.

Repotting: Fiddle leaf figs should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and allow the roots to grow. When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to prevent overwatering and root rot.

Patience: fiddle leaf plants can be slow-growing and may take time to adjust to their new environment. Be patient and avoid over-watering or over-fertilizing, as this can stress the plant.In conclusion, caring for a fiddle leaf plant requires attention to detail and patience.