If you’re asking yourself, “Why is my fiddle leaf fig dying?” you’ve come to the right place. Like many plant parents, you may have purchased the trendy fiddle leaf fig and splurged major bucks on it. And now, you find it wilted and on the verge of dying. So, now what? This stunning specimen of a houseplant is gorgeous but can be tricky to raise and keep alive. If you’ve purchased a fiddle leaf and have no idea how to revive your dying plant, worry not. Saving a fiddle leaf fig is possible!
First things first — don’t give up on it. Saving a fiddle leaf fig may be simple but takes dedication. Armed with a positive mindset, the right tools, and lots of patience, it’s time to save your fiddle leaf fig!
Answers to: “Why is my fiddle leaf fig dying?”
Reason 1: Your fiddle leaf fig is in the wrong container.
If you bought your fiddle leaf fig from the store, it probably came in a cheap plastic container that is probably too small. If this is the case, you’ll want to move it to a new pot right away.
What to do: If your fiddle leaf fig plant is in a pot that is too small, it can quickly become cramped and unhappy. If you notice that your plant’s leaves are starting to turn yellow or brown, it’s a sign that it’s time to repot. Choosing a pot that is one or two sizes larger than the current pot will give your plant the room it needs to grow. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes, and fill the bottom of the pot with gravel to help with drainage. When you transplant your fiddle leaf fig, be careful not to damage the roots. With a little extra care, your fiddle leaf fig will thrive indoors for years to come.
Why is my fiddle leaf fig dying? Reason 2: It’s in the wrong area of your house.
Your fiddle leaf fig is native to hot and humid Africa. If these plants aren’t kept in conditions like their native land, keeping them thriving can be a challenge.
Fiddle leaf figs don’t like cold, enclosed spaces, but they love bright, indirect light. Have you found that your plant is quickly losing its leaves? It might need a new location that will meet the plant’s light and temperature needs.
What to do: Find a place in your living area that is warm and humid, without too much direct sunlight. This isn’t easy in every home, but it is what’s best for your plant. If necessary, employ the use of a humidifier and grow lights.
Reason 3: Your plant needs more humidity.
Humidity is not something you have to consider for a lot of plants. On the other hand, fiddle leaf figs are particular about it. Not getting enough humidity causes a fiddle leaf fig to look drained.
What to do: There are several ways to add humidity to an area for plants.
- Transpiration, the process of water movement in plants, allows them to release moisture. When you group plants together, they create a more humid environment that will benefit all nearby plants. Putting your fiddle leaf fig closer to other plants can help with its humidity requirements.
- Use a plant mister on your fiddle leaf fig at least once every three days for increased humidity. Mist your plant in the morning, so it has more time to dry under the sun.
- If you use a humidifier, place it near your fiddle leaf fig. This will help your plant get the humidity it’s craving.
Reason 4: It needs more (or less) water.
When watering plants, overwatering is just as dangerous as underwatering. Underwatering plants will cause a plant’s leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off while overwatering can damage the roots. The key in watering plants is to know the ideal water level for each plant species.
What to do: Make sure you water your fiddle leaf fig properly. You want to keep it hydrated but not drowning. For new gardeners, you can use your hands as a gauge. To know if your plant is getting the right amount of water, check the soil dampness weekly. It’s safe to water your plant when about 2-3 inches of soil is dry. Also, consider using a soil moisture meter to take away the guesswork.
Note: Fiddle leaf figs are prone to root rot. Root rot is a plant disease caused by fungi growth in the roots and is brought about by overwatering. The damage to the roots will eventually transfer to other parts of the plant if left untreated. When in doubt about your plant’s water level, it’s better to be on the dry side.
Reason 5: Your fiddle leaf needs fertilizer.
During the hotter months of the year, when fiddle leaf figs experience more growth, they need more nutrients. When you don’t fertilize fiddle leaf figs enough, you’ll notice that your plant is not as abundant as you expected.
What to do: During spring and summer, use liquid fertilizer on your fiddle leaf tree with your water routine. Liquid fertilizer is easy to use and is safe for plants, but just like with watering, using too much can be harmful. A fertilizer made for fiddle leaf fig plants is your best option when available.
Reason 6: It’s being moved around too much.
Fiddle leaf figs take a while to adjust to their new environment and are not fans of moving around. If you move your plant too much, it’s no surprise you’re asking, “Why is my fiddle leaf fig dying?” Moving around too much causes them unnecessary stress and causes the plant to have an unhealthy look.
What to do: As with any other living organism, fiddle leaf figs thrive in their natural environment. They seek out warm and humid conditions and a stable home. To keep them healthy and at their best, make sure your fiddle leaf fig gets enough sunlight, humidity, and warmth. Once you find the ideal spot for your plant, let it thrive in its preferred location.
Reason 7: Your plant has root rot.
Root rot is a common disease in indoor plants and is even more common in fiddle leaf figs. As mentioned earlier, overwatering can bring about this plant disease. This disease is characterized by drying and falling leaves and soggy roots that give off a foul smell.
What to do: If you’re sure that your fiddle leaf fig has root rot, it’s not too late to save it. Gently pull your plant from the pot, clean the roots, and remove the damaged ones. Repot your plant in a new earthenware pot with good drainage. Once you’ve repotted the plant, make sure to give it enough sunlight and humidity, and remember not to overwater it.
Why is My Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Dying? – The Wrap-up
The fiddle leaf fig can be tricky to grow, as it has specific preferences for optimal growth. Growing one takes some work and dedication, but if you do right by it, your fiddle leaf will reward you with one of the most beautiful indoor plants there is. Don’t worry if you see signs of sickness. Saving a fiddle leaf fig is possible – with a little sun, humidity, and water, and a whole lot of love and attention.
