How to Grow and Care for Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Fiddle-leaf figs are a great source of nutrition and medicinal properties. Fiddle-leaf figs have a thick and juicy pulp and a sweet taste. They contain potassium, vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, and iron. They are also a rich source of fiber and dietary carbohydrates. In this guide, we have covered the most important information you need to know how to Grow and Care for Fiddle-Leaf Fig.

Overview

The following is a description of this plant, based on data from NC State University [1]:

Bloom Time	Rarely flowers outside of its native area
Botanical Name	Ficus lyrata
Common Name	Fiddle-leaf fig, banjo fig
Family	Moraceae
Flower Color	Insignificant
Hardiness Zones	10-12 (USDA)
Mature Size	50 ft. tall (outdoors), 10 ft. tall (indoors)
Native Area	Tropical western Africa
Plant Type	Broadleaf evergreen
Soil Type	Loamy, medium moisture, well-draining
Sun Exposure	Part shade

Types of Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Fiddle-leaf figs are popular houseplants that belong to the genus Ficus. They are native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia, and have large, glossy leaves that resemble a violin shape. There are several types of fiddle-leaf figs, each with its own characteristics and care requirements. Here are some of the most common ones:

Ficus lyrata: This is the classic fiddle-leaf fig that has dark green leaves with prominent veins. It can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors, and prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.[2] It is sensitive to overwatering, under watering, and temperature changes.
Ficus binnendijkii 'Alii': This is a long-leafed variety that has narrow, olive-green leaves that are slightly wavy. It can grow up to 12 feet tall indoors, and tolerates low light and dry air better than other types. It needs moderate watering and fertilizing.
Ficus pandurata 'Fiddle Leaf': This is a dwarf variety that has smaller, rounder leaves that are lighter green. It can grow up to 3 feet tall indoors, and likes bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. It is more resistant to pests and diseases than other types.
Ficus lyrata 'Bambino': This is another dwarf variety that has compact, curly leaves that are dark green. It can grow up to 2 feet tall indoors, and prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil. It is easy to propagate by stem cuttings.

How to Plant Fiddle Leaf Figs

The fiddle leaf fig can grow in most garden soils, but it prefers a moist, humus-rich, yet well-drained environment. For healthy development, the soil pH should be between 6-7, which may be easily checked using a pH kit. Since this plant is highly resistant to drought and dry circumstances, let the soil or potting mix dry completely in between waterings to prevent leaf drop and root rot. Here are some tips on how to plant fiddle leaf figs:

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball of your fiddle leaf fig. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent root rot.
Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can also add some perlite or vermiculite to improve aeration and drainage.
Remove the fiddle leaf fig from its nursery pot and gently loosen the roots. Place it in the center of the new pot and fill in the gaps with more potting mix. Press down lightly to firm the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Water your fiddle leaf fig thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering or underwatering your plant, as both can cause leaf drop and other problems.
Place your fiddle leaf fig in a bright spot that receives indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun exposure, as it can scorch the leaves. You can also rotate your plant every few weeks to ensure even growth.
Fertilize your fiddle leaf fig once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Prune your fiddle leaf fig as needed to maintain its shape and size. You can also pinch off the new growth at the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth. Use sharp and sterile scissors or pruners to avoid damaging the plant.

How to Care for Fiddle Leaf Figs

Light

For optimal growth and appearance, fiddle-leaf figs need bright, filtered light. The leaves can become burned by direct sunlight, especially in the intense afternoon sun.

Soil

An indoor fiddle-leaf fig should grow well in any reputable potting soil. Make sure the soil drains properly.

Water

Fiddle-leaf figs prefer a moderate level of soil moisture. The plant's leaves will wilt and turn a duller shade of green if it doesn't receive enough water. Additionally, if a plant receives too much water, it may lose its leaves and get root rot, both of which can be fatal. When the top inch of soil feels dry during the growing season (spring to fall), water your fiddle-leaf fig. Additionally, water is slightly less in the winter. Additionally, these plants are delicate to high soil salt concentrations. Therefore, it's best to flush the soil once a month or more until water starts to come out of the bottom of the pot. This aids in avoiding salt buildup.

Temperature and Humidity

Fiddle-leaf figs dislike severe temperature changes. Generally, a room between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit is appropriate, but the plant must be placed away from drafty regions and air-conditioning and heating vents. These may result in abrupt temperature changes. Try to keep the humidity between 30 and 65 percent. If additional humidity is required, spritz your plant every day with fresh water from a spray bottle. Or, if the bottom of the pot is not contacting the water, you can set it on a tray of stones with water in it. Additionally, fiddle-leaf figs can benefit from being in a humid environment.

Fertilizer

Follow the label's recommendations when using a high-nitrogen plant food as fertilizer all during the growing season. There are fertilizers available that are formulated specifically for fiddle-leaf figs. In most cases, you won't need to feed your plant over the winter.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases of Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Fiddle-leaf figs are popular houseplants that can add a touch of tropical elegance to any space. However, they are also susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect their health and appearance. Here are some of the most common problems that fiddle-leaf fig owners may encounter and how to deal with them.

Spider mites: These tiny arachnids feed on the sap of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow, brown, or gray and fall off. They also produce fine webs that cover the plant. To prevent spider mites, keep the humidity high and the plant away from heat sources. To treat spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth.
Mealybugs: These white, fuzzy insects suck the sap of the plant and secrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and fungal growth. They can cause stunted growth, leaf drop, and wilting. To prevent mealybugs, inspect new plants before bringing them home and isolate any infected ones. To treat mealybugs, dab them with alcohol or spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects: These brown or gray bumps attach themselves to the stems and leaves and feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause yellowing, curling, and dropping of leaves, as well as reduced growth. To prevent scale insects, check new plants for signs of infestation and quarantine any affected ones. To treat scale insects, scrape them off with a toothbrush or a knife, or spray them with horticultural oil or neem oil.
Root rot: This fungal disease occurs when the soil is too wet and poorly drained, causing the roots to decay and die. It can cause yellowing, wilting, and dropping of leaves, as well as a foul smell from the pot. To prevent root rot, use a well-draining potting mix and water only when the top few inches of soil are dry. To treat root rot, repot the plant in fresh soil and cut off any rotten roots.
Leaf spot: This fungal or bacterial disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves that may have yellow halos around them. It can spread quickly and cause defoliation and death of the plant. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and splashing water on the leaves. To treat leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide or a copper-based solution.

Pruning and Maintenance of Fiddle-Leaf Fig

The fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a popular houseplant that can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors. To keep it healthy and attractive, it requires regular pruning and maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for your fiddle-leaf fig:

Prune your fiddle-leaf fig in the spring or summer, when it is actively growing. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruners to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves and branches. Cut just above a leaf node or a branch junction, leaving a small stub.
Trim your fiddle-leaf fig to shape it and control its size. You can remove up to one-third of the plant's height and width in one pruning session, but avoid cutting off the main stem or the top growth point. You can also pinch off the tips of new shoots to encourage branching and bushiness.
Clean your fiddle-leaf fig's leaves regularly with a damp cloth or a soft brush to remove dust and pests. Avoid using harsh chemicals or oils that can damage the plant's foliage. You can also mist your fiddle-leaf fig occasionally to increase humidity and prevent leaf drop.
Repot your fiddle-leaf fig every two to three years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one or two sizes larger than the current one, with drainage holes at the bottom. Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. Water your fiddle-leaf fig thoroughly after repotting and place it in a bright, indirect light.

Potting and Repotting of Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Fiddle-leaf figs are popular houseplants that require well-drained soil and adequate light to thrive. Potting and repotting them can be tricky, but with some care and attention, you can enjoy their lush foliage for years. Here are some tips on how to pot and repot your fiddle-leaf fig:

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant, and has drainage holes at the bottom. Avoid pots that are too big, as they can cause root rot and waterlogging.
Fill the pot with a mix of potting soil and perlite, or use a commercial soil mix designed for fiddle-leaf figs. Leave some space at the top for watering.
Gently remove the plant from its original pot, and loosen the roots if they are compacted or circling around the pot. Trim off any damaged or diseased roots with a sharp knife or scissors.
Place the plant in the center of the new pot, and fill in the gaps with more soil mix. Press down lightly to firm the soil, and water thoroughly until the excess water drains out.
Place the pot in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Water regularly, but let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

FAQs of Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Fiddle-leaf figs are popular houseplants that can add a touch of greenery to any space. However, they can also be tricky to care for and may require some extra attention. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about fiddle-leaf figs that can help you keep your plant healthy and happy.

How often should I water my fiddle-leaf fig?

Watering frequency depends on several factors, such as the size of the pot, the type of soil, the humidity level, and the season. A general rule of thumb is to water your fiddle-leaf fig when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering or underwatering, as both can cause leaf drop, yellowing, or browning.

How much light does my fiddle-leaf fig need?

Fiddle-leaf figs prefer bright, indirect light, such as near a south-facing window. They can tolerate some direct sun in the morning or evening, but avoid exposing them to harsh midday sun, as this can scorch their leaves. If your fiddle-leaf fig is not getting enough light, it may become leggy, droopy, or lose its color.

How do I prune my fiddle-leaf fig?

Pruning your fiddle-leaf fig can help shape it, encourage new growth, and remove dead or damaged leaves. You can prune your fiddle-leaf fig anytime, but spring and summer are the best seasons for pruning. Use sharp and clean scissors or pruners and cut just above a leaf node (where a leaf attaches to the stem). You can also propagate new plants from the cuttings by placing them in water or soil.

How do I deal with pests and diseases on my fiddle-leaf fig?

Fiddle-leaf figs are susceptible to common houseplant pests, such as mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can cause yellowing, wilting, or sticky residue on the leaves. To prevent pests, keep your fiddle-leaf fig clean and dust-free, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. To treat pests, you can use a mild soap solution, neem oil, or insecticidal soap and spray it on the affected areas. Fiddle-leaf figs can also suffer from fungal or bacterial diseases [3], such as root rot, leaf spot, or anthracnose. These diseases can cause brown spots, black spots, or mushy roots on the plant. To prevent diseases, avoid overwatering or underwatering your fiddle-leaf fig, and make sure it has good drainage and air circulation. To treat diseases, you can trim off the infected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide or bactericide if needed.

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs safe for pets?

No, Fiddle Leaf Figs (Ficus lyrata) are not considered safe for pets. They contain a sap that can cause irritation and digestive issues if ingested by cats, dogs, or other animals.

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs easy to care for?

Fiddle Leaf Figs require moderate care and can be a bit challenging for beginners. They need bright, indirect light, regular watering (without overwatering), and occasional fertilizing. Proper humidity levels and protection from drafts are also important for their well-being. Sources: The New York Garden works under restricted procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies and studies conducted by academic organizations. Tertiary references should be avoided. For more information on how we ensure our material is correct and up to date, please visit our editorial policy.