Caring for Fiddle Leaf Figs Can Be Challenging - Here's How to Maintain Their Lush and Shine
In the world of indoor plants, the fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) has become a popular choice for many homeowners. This striking plant, available from retailers like The Sill and Fast Growing Trees, can add a pop of color and elegance to your home.
Dom Butler, the Founder of Plant Drop, has seen the fiddle leaf fig's appeal firsthand. This plant, with its large, glossy leaves, is a statement piece that can thrive indoors with the right care.
Caring for a fiddle leaf fig involves providing bright, indirect light, preferably near a north-, east-, or south-facing window. It's essential to avoid harsh direct midday sun to prevent leaf burn. The ideal temperature for a fiddle leaf fig is between 60–75°F (15–24°C), and it prefers a humid environment. This can be maintained by misting leaves regularly or using a humidifier, especially in dry climates.
Watering should be done when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry, usually every 7-12 days, depending on your home’s humidity and temperature. Good drainage is crucial to avoid root rot, and the plant should never sit in standing water. Wiping leaves occasionally to remove dust allows better photosynthesis.
Pest control is another crucial aspect of fiddle leaf fig care. Common pests to watch for include spider mites or scale. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be effective treatments. However, be cautious with oils and spot-test to avoid damage.
Additional tips include fertilizing lightly twice a year in summer and winter only if needed, rotating the plant occasionally for even growth, and gently shaking the trunk to encourage strength in smaller plants. Pruning should be done by cutting just above nodes to encourage healthy new growth.
Following this care routine will help your fiddle leaf fig stay healthy and grow strong indoors. It's important to remember that each plant is unique, and adjustments may be necessary based on your specific environment.
In winter, the fiddle leaf fig benefits from increased humidity due to dry air from radiators. Overwatered fiddle leaf figs usually have yellowing leaves and brown markings in the middle of the leaves that work their way out towards the edges. Conversely, underwatered plants may show signs of wilting or drooping leaves.
The fiddle leaf fig can be propagated or grown from wood cuttings or division of existing plants. If you find your fiddle leaf fig becoming susceptible to pests like mealybug or aphids, natural bug control formulas or a drop of washing up liquid in a spray bottle of water can help.
Priced at $309 from The Sill and $64.95 from Fast Growing Trees, the fiddle-leaf fig tree can make a statement in your living room and entryway. Properly cared for, these plants can live up to 10 to 15 years, with some possibly reaching 20 years and beyond.
References:
[1] The Sill. (n.d.). Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide. Retrieved from https://www.thesill.com/plant-care/fiddle-leaf-fig-care/
[2] Fast Growing Trees. (n.d.). Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide. Retrieved from https://www.fastgrowingtrees.com/plants/fiddle-leaf-fig-care
[3] Plant Drop. (n.d.). Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide. Retrieved from https://plantdrop.co.uk/plants/fiddle-leaf-fig-care/
[4] HGTV. (2018, March 29). Fiddle Leaf Fig Care: How to Grow Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees. Retrieved from https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoors/plants-flowers/fiddle-leaf-fig-care-how-to-grow-fiddle-leaf-fig-trees
[5] Garden Design. (2018, July 25). Fiddle Leaf Fig Care: How to Keep Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Happy. Retrieved from https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/fiddle-leaf-fig-care-how-to-keep-your-fiddle-leaf-fig-happy/
- With a pop of color and an elegant presence, the fiddle leaf fig can be a trendy addition to your home's interior design, with options to purchase from retailers like The Sill, Fast Growing Trees, and Plant Drop.
- Incorporating art and decor into your home-and-garden lifestyle, a fiddle leaf fig can add a statement piece to your living room or entryway, creating a harmonious blend of nature and modern living.
- With the right care, such as providing bright, indirect light and a humid environment, a fiddle leaf fig can thrive indoors for up to 20 years, making it a long-lasting investment in your lifestyle and gardening hobbies.
- To maintain the health of your fiddle leaf fig, it's crucial to care for its pests, like spider mites or scale, using natural solutions like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a drop of washing up liquid in a spray bottle of water.
- As seasonal changes occur, care for your fiddle leaf fig may need adjustments to adapt to the varying temperatures and humidity levels, ensuring it continues to live happily and grow strong in your home.
