Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) - Complete Care Guide

roton (Codiaeum variegatum) plant

Fiddle Leaf Figs are popular, stylish plants known for their large, violin-shaped leaves. To keep your Fiddle Leaf Fig thriving, follow these steps:

Potting:

  1. Choose a pot that is only 1-2 sizes larger than the plant's current container, as Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer to be slightly root-bound.
  2. Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for tropical plants like Fiddle Leaf Figs.
  3. Gently remove the plant from its current container, taking care not to damage the roots.
  4. Inspect the roots and trim any dead or damaged roots with sterile scissors.
  5. Place the plant in the new pot, making sure the soil level is the same as it was in the previous pot.
  6. Fill in the gaps with potting mix, gently firming it around the roots.

Placement:

Place the Fiddle Leaf Fig in a bright, indirectly lit area, such as an east- or west-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to become scorched. Fiddle Leaf Figs can tolerate low light, but may not produce as many new leaves.

Feeding:

  1. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) at half the recommended strength.
  2. Feed the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
  3. Dilute the fertilizer to a quarter of the recommended strength during the dormant season (fall and winter).
  4. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for tropical plants like Fiddle Leaf Figs, which may contain additional micronutrients.

Watering:

  1. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
  2. Water the plant thoroughly, making sure the pot drains well to prevent waterlogged soil.
  3. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry, usually every 7-10 days in the spring and summer, and less often in the fall and winter.
  4. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

Diseases:

Fiddle Leaf Figs are susceptible to the following diseases:

  • Root rot: caused by overwatering, which can be treated by repotting the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and reducing watering frequency.
  • Leaf spot: caused by fungal infections, which can be treated by removing affected leaves and treating the plant with a fungicide.
  • Mealybugs: small, white insects that can be treated by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
  • Spider mites: tiny, spider-like insects that can be treated by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.

Toxicity:

Fiddle Leaf Figs are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The sap of the plant contains a toxic compound called ficin, which can cause oral and gastrointestinal irritation, and skin irritation in some individuals.

Additional Tips:

  • Keep the temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) to promote healthy growth.
  • Humidity levels should be around 40-50% to prevent leaf drop.
  • Prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming leggy.
  • Rotate the plant every few weeks to maintain its shape and prevent it from leaning towards the light source.
  • Fiddle Leaf Figs can grow quite large, so prune them regularly to maintain a desired size.