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Fiddle Leaf Fig trees are a beautiful addition to any home, and with proper care, they can thrive indoors for many years. In this comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about caring for fiddle leaf fig, we will cover all aspects of helping these beautiful plants to thrive inside your home.
The History of Fiddle Leaf Fig
If you’re a fan of indoor gardening and houseplants, chances are you’ve come across a fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata). These large-leaved plants are native to the tropical rainforests of West Africa, where they can grow up to 100 feet tall!
The fiddle leaf fig gets its name from its distinctive leaves, which are shaped like violins or fiddles. The fiddle leaf fig has been around for centuries. In fact, it was one of the first houseplants to be brought to Europe from Africa in the 1600s. Since then, it has become a popular plant among indoor gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Today, there are many different varieties of fiddle leaf figs available, each with its own unique leaf shape and size.
Despite its long history, the fiddle leaf fig is still relatively new to the world of science. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that scientists began studying this plant in depth. Since then, we’ve learned a lot about the fascinating biology of the fiddle leaf fig. For example, we now know that these plants reproduce via tiny flowers that grow on their stems (not their leaves!). We also know that they have an interesting symbiotic relationship with a type of wasp that helps pollinate their flowers.
Caring for Fiddle Leaf Fig
Light Considerations when Caring for Fiddle Leaf Fig
Fiddle Leaf Fig plants are native to the tropical regions of Africa, so they need bright, indirect sunlight in order to thrive. If your home doesn’t get a lot of natural light, you can supplement it with artificial lighting. Fluorescent bulbs are ideal for plants, as they emit very little heat and provide the full spectrum of light that plants need.
When it comes to positioning your Fiddle Leaf Fig plant, remember that south-facing windows will provide the brightest light. East- and west-facing windows will provide more moderate light, while north-facing windows will provide the lowest amount of light. If you have a choice, opt for a spot near a south-facing window. And if you’re using artificial lighting, make sure to place the bulbs fairly close to the plant (about 12 inches away) and on a timer so they’re not on for more than 16 hours per day.
Watering Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
The biggest problem that people run into when watering their fiddle leaf figs is overwatering. Fiddle leaf figs are native to tropical climates and prefer humid conditions. However, too much water can cause the plant’s roots to rot, so it’s important to strike a balance. The best way to water a fiddle leaf fig is to give it a thorough soaking once a week and then allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
If you live in a particularly dry climate, you may need to increase the frequency of your waterings slightly. You can tell if your plant needs more water if its leaves start to droop or turn yellow. On the other hand, if you see brown spots on the leaves or mushy stems, that’s an indication that you’ve been overwatering your plant. In addition to watering correctly, it’s also important to use filtered or distilled water when caring for fiddleleaf fig. This will help prevent any mineral buildup in the soil that could harm your plant. If possible, try to use rainwater or collected runoff from an air conditioner unit—both make great options for watering plants indoors!
Humidity & Temperature when Caring for Fiddle Leaf Fig
These plants prefer warm temperatures and high humidity levels, which can be difficult to provide in the average home. However, with a little effort, it is possible to create an environment that will allow your Fiddle Leaf Fig to thrive indoors. The first step is to choose the right location for your plant. Fiddle Leaf Fig plants do best in bright indirect sunlight.
Once you have found the perfect location, it’s time to focus on providing the right temperature and humidity levels for your plant. As mentioned before, Fiddle Leaf Fig plants prefer warm temperatures and high humidity levels. The ideal temperature range for these plants is 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit. If your home is on the cooler side, you can use a space heater or place the plant pot on top of a heating pad set on low (be sure not to wrap the heating pad around the pot as this could cause a fire). You can also try misting your plant daily with water or using a pebble tray filled with water underneath the pot (just be sure not to let the bottom of the pot touch any water as this could lead to root rot).
Fertilizing
As far as fertilizer goes, you’ll want to use one that is high in nitrogen. This will help promote the healthy growth of your plant’s leaves. A good rule of thumb is to use a fertilizer that is half nitrogen and half phosphorus. You can find fertilizers specifically designed for Fiddle Leaf Fig plants at most garden stores or online.
When it comes to applying the fertilizer, always follow the directions on the package. Typically, you’ll want to apply it every two weeks or so during the growing season (spring and summer). Be sure to water your plant before applying the fertilizer, as dry roots are more susceptible to burn damage from too much fertilizer.
Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, being careful not to get any on the leaves themselves. If you notice that your plant’s leaves are starting to yellow or brown around the edges, this could be a sign that you’re over-fertilizing it. Cut back on how often you’re applying fertilizer, and make sure you’re not using too much each time. If yellowing persists despite your best efforts, consult with a professional greenhouse or nursery for advice specific to your situation. Once per month during spring and summer (and every other month during fall and winter), give your fiddle leaf fig tree a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. If you are using granulated fertilizer, apply it very lightly around the perimeter of the pot avoiding the base of the trunk.
Pruning
You can prune your fiddle leaf fig tree whenever it needs shaping or if there are any dead or damaged leaves that need to be removed. Cut just above the node where two leaves emerge. New growth will sprout here. In any case, don’t remove more than 25%of foliage at one time
Repotting
A healthy fiddleleaf fig should only need to be repotted every 1-2 years, into a slightly larger container. When repotting, loosen the root ball gently with your hands before placing it into its new pot. Fill any gaps around the roots with fresh potting mix, up to its original level. Water well after transplanting.
This plant is not Poisonous but the sap can be an irritant to skin and eyes, so it’s best to wear gloves when handling. With proper care, your fiddle leaf fig will thrive and bring you joy for many years to come!
Caring for Fiddle Leaf Fig – The Wrap-up
If you’re looking for a plant that will make a statement in your home, the fiddle leaf fig is a perfect choice. With its large, glossy leaves, it’s sure to draw attention wherever you place it. But while this plant is certainly eye-catching, it also requires some special care to keep it looking its best. By following the tips above, you’ll be able to enjoy your fiddle leaf fig for years to come.
