8 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Healthy

Are you a plant lover who wants to bring the beauty of nature into your home? If so, then a fiddle leaf fig tree might be the perfect addition to your indoor garden. With its large green leaves and vibrant color, it can become a stunning statement piece in any room. However, taking care of a fiddle leaf fig tree can be a bit tricky. Don’t worry, though! In this article, we’ll provide you with eight essential tips for fiddle leaf fig tree care, straight from an expert.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees Are Delicate, So Treat Them with Care

If you’re a beginner or looking for a low-maintenance houseplant, a fiddle leaf fig tree might not be the best choice. These plants can be a bit fussy, and if they’re not happy, they’ll start dropping leaves. However, once you find the right spot and give them what they need, they become much easier to care for. So, if you notice your fiddle leaf fig tree dropping leaves, turning brown or yellow, or even dying, it’s a sign that something needs to change.

Find a Spot with Plenty of Morning Light

Before bringing home a fiddle leaf fig tree, make sure you have a space that offers plenty of sunlight. These trees need around three hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Morning light works wonders for them, so if possible, place your tree near an east or south-east facing window. Imagine the beautiful green leaves basking in the gentle morning rays—it’s a sight to behold!

Morning Light is Crucial for Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Contrary to what some plant tags may say, fiddle leaf fig trees require more than just indirect light. They thrive with a few hours of direct sunlight each day. If you’ve tried giving them only afternoon light and noticed that they didn’t do well, you’re not alone. Many fiddle leaf fig owners have observed that providing morning light yields better results. Trees that receive morning sunlight tend to grow new leaves faster, drop fewer leaves, and overall, are much happier.

Avoid Repotting Immediately

When you bring your fiddle leaf fig tree home, it may experience some leaf dropping as it acclimates to its new environment. Don’t panic! This is a normal reaction. Resist the urge to repot the tree right away—it needs time to adjust. Wait until spring when the tree has grown a bit and genuinely needs more space. If you’re unsure about repotting, stick your fingers around the inside of the pot. If you can easily reach the soil, you’re probably okay for now.

How to Tell When it’s Time to Repot

To determine if your fiddle leaf fig tree needs a larger container, check for roots. If you encounter roots immediately upon touching the soil, it’s time to repot. When choosing a pot, opt for one that comfortably accommodates the plant’s size, providing enough room for growth. Ensure the pot has proper drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in water and potentially rotting. A peat-based soil mix designed for indoor plants will work perfectly.

Water Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Thoroughly

When watering your tree, be sure to give it a good soak. A pint or two won’t be enough. Use a planter with adequate drainage and place a saucer underneath. This allows the excess water to drain away, preventing the roots from becoming waterlogged. Avoid self-watering pots, as they tend to keep the soil too wet. Fiddle leaf fig trees prefer a thorough soak, followed by complete drying out. Remember to remove any leftover water from the saucer to prevent root rot.

Choosing the Right Pot for Your Tree

To achieve the desired watering results, Eric, our plant expert, suggests thoroughly watering the tree with a gallon or two of water. Start with a little water, let it soak in, and then gradually add more until the entire volume has been absorbed. Afterward, make sure to discard any excess water that collects in the saucer. If your plant is smaller, you can conveniently water it in the sink or shower and return it to its designated spot once completely drained.

Don’t Stick to a Watering Schedule

Eric recommends not sticking to a fixed watering schedule for any plant, including the fiddle leaf fig. Factors such as temperature, humidity, sunlight, and the time of year can influence a plant’s water needs. Instead of following a routine, insert your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, give your plant a drink. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days before watering again. Checking the soil every 2-3 days will give you an idea of your plant’s watering requirements.

Your Leaves Hold the Secret

Did you know that the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig tree can communicate its needs? If you notice brown, crispy leaves, it’s a sign that your plant needs more water. On the other hand, yellow leaves indicate overwatering, so cut back on watering and allow the plant to dry out more thoroughly between waterings. Understanding this subtle language can help you provide the precise care your fiddle leaf fig tree requires.

Give Your Tree the Nutrients It Craves

Unlike outdoor plants that benefit from nutrient-rich soil, indoor fiddle leaf fig trees rely solely on the soil in their pots. Therefore, it’s crucial to replenish their soil with necessary nutrients. If you don’t repot your tree regularly, make sure to fertilize it to ensure proper growth and overall plant health. Choose a high-quality fertilizer specifically formulated for fiddle leaf fig trees, and follow the instructions for best results.

Now that you have a handle on these essential tips, taking care of your fiddle leaf fig tree should be a breeze. Enjoy the beauty and vibrancy it brings to your home and watch it flourish under your expert care.

Do you have any houseplants? Share your tips for caring for a fiddle leaf fig tree or any other indoor plants. And don’t forget to check out Ames Farm Center for more gardening inspiration!

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