Posts in Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Fiddle Leaf Fig Care: The 10 Commandments

The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree: a gloriously sculptural plant with fiddle-shaped leaves.

Want your Fiddle Leaf Fig to flourish?

The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata) is a stunning houseplant that is known for its finicky nature, and you’ve likely heard of how unforgiving this plant can be towards improper care. This can be intimidating if you have never cared for one before, but rest assured that as one of the most popular indoor plants out there, many newbies have found success in owning and growing a beautiful Fiddle Leaf Fig and its lush, attractive foliage. If you’re new to the game, too, discover invaluable Fiddle-Leaf Fig care insights and techniques shared by our guest writer, Claire Akin, the one and only Fiddle Leaf expert and owner of The Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource Center. As a true authority on this beloved plant variety, Claire's expertise and tips can be of great value to both new and seasoned Fiddle-Leaf owners alike!

1. Provide Proper Drainage

2. How to Water Fiddle Leaf Figs: Don’t Overwater!

3. Give your Fiddle Bright Light

4. Let Them Rest in Winter

5. Leaf Drop: Let Old Leaves Go

6. Create Humidity

7. Repot When Necessary

8. Feed It the Right Plant Food

9. Check-in Regularly & Have the Right Tools at Hand

10. Respond to Issues Right Away

1. Provide Proper Drainage

Your plant’s overall health depends on the health of its root system. Roots need two things to stay happy, water and oxygen. In order for both of these to be in balance your plant needs to be able to breathe properly. As such, one of the first things you need to make sure of when it comes to potted plants, particularly the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, is if your planter or pot has a drainage hole. If you have a decorative planter that you wish to use that does not have one simply keep you plant in its plastic nursery pot and slip it inside of the decorative container. At Léon & George, we actually pot all of our plants like this, as it allows us to use sleek and stylish planters and also ensure the root safety and health of our plants.

Apart from drainage, you’ll want to allow a bit of oxygen into the roots. One way to make sure the roots are getting enough oxygen is to aerate the soil every once in a while. All that you need to do this is a chopstick and a moment of spare time.

2. How to Water Fiddle Leaf Figs: Don’t Overwater!

It’s important that you allow your Fiddle-Leaf Fig to dry out a bit between waterings. This simulates the conditions of their native environment and will keep them happy. This may seem like a relatively simple task, but overwatering is where first-time owners of this plant tend to go wrong. Overwatering can lead to more serious issues like root rot, which can cause the quick demise of your plant. Overwatering can also create the perfect habitat for pests like fungus gnats, and lead to weaker root systems that are prone to infestation.

A good rule of thumb is to water your Fiddle Leaf Fig no more than once a week. Always take a moment to check the soil before watering though, your plant may not be as thirsty as you think!

If you want to be certain you’re watering your plant correctly, check out this ultimate guide to watering the Fiddle Leaf Fig, and also consider using a moisture meter!

3. Give your Fiddle Bright Light

Fiddle Leaf Figs absolutely need plenty of bright indirect or filtered light to thrive. These plants will not tolerate low-light areas, and it’s very possible your plant will quickly decline if you try to place it in an area that does not receive much natural light.

The ideal spot for a Fiddle Leaf Fig is near a bright window that receives plenty of indirect light throughout the day, such as a south-facing window. Read our full guide on where to place your Fiddle Leaf Fig to ensure your plant is set up for success!

4. Let Them Rest in Winter

Just like us, our plants notice the changing of the seasons, and will require slight modifications to their care throughout the year. The darker days of winter, for example, result in your plant using less energy. They do not grow as much during this time and therefore need less water. They also do not have the same need for nutrients, so it’s a good idea to fertilize less or stop entirely until the springtime.

However, one thing you will want more of in the winter is sunlight. Depending on the placement of your indoor tree, you may need to change your Fiddle’s location for the winter months if it is no longer getting enough light where you originally placed it.

5. Leaf Drop: Let Old Leaves Go

Your plant is a living being. This means that growth is natural and the loss of old leaves is nothing to mourn. As Fiddle Leaf Figs grow taller and mature, they sometimes drop their lower leaves. So long as you see new shiny new leaves and growth, this is generally not a cause for concern.

That said, if many leaves are dropping rapidly, you could have a problem on your hands. You will have to quickly diagnose the issue to make sure that your Fiddle Leaf Fig is on the right track and does not suffer permanent damage.

6. Create Humidity

Your Fiddle Leaf Fig craves humid conditions. Their ideal range is between 30 to 65 percent humidity. This can be hard to achieve in your home, especially if you run your AC or heater often as they dry out the air. You can try to create these ideal conditions by misting or using a humidifier. Misting every couple of days is a standard practice amongst experienced Fiddle Leaf Fig owners.

7. Repot When Necessary

If you take good care of your Fiddle Leaf Fig, its root system will outgrow its container every few years. It's important to inspect houseplants regularly, and with the Fiddle Leaf Fig, you’ll know it's time to repot if you spot roots peeking out from the bottom or edges of its container. Only repot during its growing season (spring and summer); your plant will not have enough energy in winter to handle such a big change. And don’t forget to always use the appropriate potting soil!

If your Fiddle Leaf Fig is already in the largest planter that your space can accommodate try top dressing the soil. All that you need to do is remove and replace the top four inches of the soil.

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8. Feed It the Right Plant Food

In order to keep new leaves sprouting on your Fiddle Leaf Fig is getting all of the nutrients that it needs. Give them a liquid fertilizer like Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food, which has the NPK ratio of 3-1-2 that Fiddles like best. You want to give your plant fertilizer during the growing months, from spring to fall. But be careful not to overdo it! Using too much fertilizer can result in fertilizer burn.

9. Check-in Regularly & Have the Right Tools at Hand

Having a good relationship with your Fiddle Leaf Fig is the best way to ensure that it thrives. Make sure that you take the time to check in with your plant once a week to see how its doing. Rotate to keep a lean from developing. Feel the soil before watering to gauge how much water it actually needs. This is a good time to wipe down and inspect its leaves! Keep your eyes peeled for wilting and brown spots as you clean them.

To ensure that you’re giving your plant the best care you’ll want to use the right tools. Ideally you should have some sharp pruning shears, a watering can, and a moisture meter. As Fiddle Leaf Figs are prone to leaning it can be helpful to have yours on a roomy planter or even one with wheels, this will allow you to rotate it more easily.

10. Respond to Issues Right Away

Fiddle-Leaf Figs spend a lot of energy creating their large viola shaped leaves. So they are slow growers indoors and do not bounce back well from health issues. So you’ll want to act quickly if you spot a brown leaf, mass of insects, or a pronounced lean. Even if you adjust your care do not expect you Fiddle Leaf Fig to show sign of improvement in the winter. Fiddle Leaf Figs can take up to a year to show signs of recovery for certain health issues.

If you have brown edges on the leaves of your Fiddle Leaf Fig that are bothering you do not remove the whole leaf. Instead cut off the spot following the natural shape of the leaf. Given enough time and patience it is possible for your plant to recover from most ailments, and you’ll be a certified green-thumb in no time!

Thank you to resident expert Claire Aiken of the Fiddle Leaf Fig Resource Center! To access comprehensive knowledge and guidance, don't hesitate to acquire your own copy of "The Fiddle Leaf Fig Expert" book and consider checking out The Ultimate Fiddle-Leaf Fig Care Webinar to further enhance your expertise. Your thriving Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree awaits!

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Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees, Plant CareLéon & GeorgeSeptember 27, 2023Plant care, Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Comments

Fiddle Leaf Figs and Root Rot: The Only Corrective Guide You'll Ever Need

How to diagnose and treat root rot in fiddle leaf figs

Root rot is common issue with indoor plants, and can be a very serious problem with the popular Fiddle Leaf Fig. Though this plant is prone to browning and dropping leaves, if root rot goes untreated it can lead to the quick demise of your plant. So what is root rot? In this article we’ll explain what causes root rot, how to treat it, and what to do to prevent future cases!

What causes root rot?

How to diagnose root rot

How to treat root rot on Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

What Causes Root Rot?

As the name implies, root rot is caused by an accumulation of moisture or humidity in the plant’s soil due to overwatering. Like most indoor plants, Fiddle Leaf Figs like to dry out a bit in between waterings, and by watering them too frequently or too much, they may develop a nasty rot that will first infect the roots below the soil and later begin to show up top by browning or dropping leaves. Root rot may also be caused by a lack of drainage in the pot, or a combination of less than ideal or no drainage and overwatering.

How to Diagnose Root Root in a Fiddle Leaf Fig

Root rot can be difficult to diagnose by looking plainly at a potted plant. Even a Fiddle that appears to be relatively dry on the surface of its soil may be in the processing of rooting down below. The only way to truly know is to see the roots below the surface. If you are noticing signs of distress like dropping or browning leaves on your plant, you may want to remove the plant from its pot and have a look.

Here are a few clear signs your Fiddle Leaf Fig has root rot:

Wet, soggy, or mushy brown roots
Dripping, soaked, or waterlogged soil and roots
An unpleasant smell in the soil or around the roots

The beginning signs of root rot: the roots on the left are healthy and strong, whereas the roots on the right are soggy and waterlogged.

Once a section of the roots begins to rot, this can spread through the rest of the root system and begin to travel up to the leaves of the plant.

How to Save Your Fiddle Leaf Fig from Root Rot

Root rot in Fiddle Leaf Figs does not necessarily mean certain death, though catching it quickly is important if you want to save the plant. At the first sign of distress, remove your plant from its pot and carefully inspect the roots. Is there accumulated moisture around the base of the plants? Do the roots feel mushy or are they turning dark brown?

If so, act immediately by following these steps and repotting your plant:

Rinse all the roots throughly with water. Once they are clean, remove any that are damaged with a pair of clean scissors or pruning shears.
With a new container with good drainage, repot your plant with fresh, fast-draining soil. You may consider adding some gravel or a foam block to the bottom of your container to improve the drainage and help keep your plant dry.
Place your Fiddle in bright, indirect light (these plants are picky about this!) and water once. Do not water again until you’re positive the roots have dried out. This may be anywhere from one to two weeks or more depending on the size of the plant and the temperature it lives in. Erring on the side of underwatering is usually best!

Repot your fiddle leaf fig with fresh potting soil in the well-draining container. Then, water once and make sure the excess water is draining out of the bottom of the container. After that, wait. Do not water again until you’re sure the roots have had a chance to dry out. You can also use a moisture meter to check the bottom of your plant.

Your plant may still lose a few leaves at first, so be patient and wait for the plant to stabilize. You may remove the heavily damaged leaves, and trim some of the slightly damaged ones to remove the brown edges. Make sure not to remove too much of the plant (a good general rule is no more than 30%), as this may throw the plant into further shock. Whatever the case, with a bit of water, light, and love, your Fiddle has a good chance of recovering!

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

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Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees, Plant CareLéon & GeorgeJuly 14, 2023Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Comments

How to Care for and Grow Your Fiddle Leaf Fig TREE

The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, known for its sculptural shape and stick-thin trunk, is arguably the “it” plant of the moment. If you are not familiar yet, you will be soon: this incredibly gorgeous tree, which also comes in bush or columnar form, appears in magazines, design blogs, and all over Instagram. But despite the popularity, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is not necessarily the easiest of plants to take care of. It is notoriously finicky, and is known to drop leaves with even the most minimal change in its watering schedule, temperature, or environment. Worth it? We think so. Read on for simple tips on how to care for and grow the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree.

Light, watering, and growth
Common problems with Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees
Maintaining the beauty of your Fiddle over time
How to propagate Fiddle Leaf Figs

Light Requirements for Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

The Fiddle prefers bright indirect light — and a lot of it. If you place this plant in an area of medium to low light, it will quickly start to lose leaves. However, leaves may scorch in harsh direct sunlight, so keep it out of strong rays of sun. Read our guide on finding the perfect placement of your Fiddle Leaf Fig.

How to water Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Water thoroughly when topsoil is dry, usually once every ten days or so. Avoid overwatering, and keep in mind that watering schedule may be less frequent during winter months. Read our ultimate guide to watering the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Growth Rate

In prime conditions, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is a fast grower and can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors. Make sure to fertilize your plant regularly during the spring and summer.

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Common problems with Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Yellow or brown leaves - overwatering

Symptom - leaves turning yellow or brown, usually starting at the center of the leaf
Cause - overwatering and/or not enough sunlight
Remedy - allow soil to dry out completely, sometimes this can take 2-3 weeks. Check the soil’s moisture through the drainage holes at the bottom. Overwatering can lead to more severe ailments like root rot and that may eventually require you change the soil.

Yellow or brown leaves - underwatering

Symptom - leaves turning yellow or brown, usually starting at the edge of the leaf
Cause - underwatering
Remedy - give your plant a full shower! Take it out of its decorative pot and put in a bathtub, shower or outdoor area and give it a thorough watering. You may even let it sit in water for a few hours so that the roots can drink from the bottom. Let it drain out completely before returning it to its decorative pot.

Leaf drop - overwatering or underwatering

Symptom - leaves dropping, either at the bottom of the plant or from all areas of the plant
Cause - usually overwatered fiddles will drop their bottom leaves, while underwatered fiddles will drop leaves from anywhere on the plant.
Remedy - follow instructions above for either overwatered or underwatered Fiddle Leaf Fig plants!

Leaf droop - underwatered or too warm

Symptom - leaves sagging or drooping
Cause - fiddles will sometimes begin to droop if it’s warm and they are thirsty
Remedy - adjust your watering schedule. During warm summer months, your plant may need more frequent waterings.

Is this all very confusing? Fiddles are known for that. Dive deeper on some common issues with the Fiddle Leaf Fig:

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How to maintain a beautiful and healthy Fiddle Leaf Fig

Take care of your Fiddle Leaf Fig and it will take care of you! Below are simple tips to continue caring for your plant over time.

Pruning - Remove dry or dead leaves all year round, but save any major pruning for the spring and summer months. It is not uncommon for fiddles to grow like crazy toward the light (especially if you don’t rotate them!), and if this is the case, you may want to prune it back. When pruning your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, wear gloves and protect your floor with newspaper — the sap that leaks out can be sticky and damage floors. Use sharp, clean shears and cut just above the node at a 90 degree angle.
Staking - Sometimes Fiddles can grow so large that they need some extra support. If you’ve pruned and still find your plant leaning, try staking it, or inserting a wooden dowel gently into the soil near the trunk.
Cleaning - Take a damp cloth or sponge and gentle clean each leaf (this also helps the plant soak in more light!).
Repotting - Houseplants grow much slower than they would in the wild. Depending on the size of your plant and the density of the roots, this is nice to do every 2-3 years to provide fresh nutrients and encourage new growth.
- When to repot - if the roots start to become visible outside the soil (i.e. circling around the grow pot), it is time to consider repotting your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree.
- Pot sizing - if you want your plant to grow taller, find a nursery pot that’s 2” in diameter larger than the current pot. If you want your plant to stay the same height, you can reuse the same pot and simply change the soil.
- Get your hands dirty - spread out newspaper on the floor, remove the plant from the pot and shake off as much of the old soil as possible so that you have clean roots. Place the plant in the center of the pot, add new soil and pat down firmly. Water the soil thoroughly and place the plant in an area with bright indirect light. Your plant will take 2-4 weeks to settle from the shock and adjust to its new home.

Shop beautiful Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees at leonandgeorge.com

How to propagate a Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Whether you want to recycle your Fiddle Leaf Fig cuttings or you simply want to create a new plant, propagating the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is relatively simple. Though there are many ways to do this, water propagation is generally the easiest way to go about it. Follow these instructions to propagate your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree:

Select a small branch to propagate - Using sharp, clean scissors or shears, cut a two to three inch branch just above a node (a leaf joint). Do not cut a branch off with more than three leaves— it will require too much energy to grow roots.
Place in water - Find a clear glass and fill with water. Make sure only the stem of the branch is submerged, and no leaves are sitting in the water. You may like to use a rooting hormone to increase your chances of rooting.
Place in a bright area and wait! - Avoid any direct sun. You may need to change the water out every few days to keep it fresh. It could take up to several weeks for your cutting to form roots.
Transfer to soil - After some time, you will start to see tiny white roots emerging from the cutting. Give it a few more days until the roots have grown, and then transfer to indoor potting soil. A small pot is best — no larger than 6” in diameter.
Keep hydrated - During the first few weeks, or until your plant feels firmly rooted in its soil, regularly water and drain your plant. The soil should be just barely moist to the touch at all times.

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Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees, Care GuideLéon & GeorgeJuly 14, 2023Fiddle Leaf Fig TreeComment

Planning On Fertilizing Your Fiddle Leaf Fig? Read This First!

The best fertilizer for fiddle leaf fig trees

How Should You Fertilize a Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant?
What N-P-K ratio does a Fiddle Leaf Fig need?
Which Fertilizer is Best for a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Fiddle Leaf Figs are beloved for their large sculptural leaves. But these viola-shaped beauties take a lot of energy for your plant to produce! Many owners find that when they bring their Fiddle Leaf Figs home the leaves that they produce outside the nursery aren’t as full. This can be due to not receiving the right light or water, but it is most likely due to not being fertilized.

Your home can never perfectly rival the natural environment of these plants, but you can still come close! In the wild these plants are able to grow to a staggering 40 feet tall because of the abundance of nutrients found in their soil. While we can’t hope for such statuesque houseplants we can strive towards keeping them as healthy as possible. By using the right fertilizer you give your plant the nutrients it needs to reach new heights and grow healthy leaves.

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How Should You Fertilize a Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant?

You want to fertilize plants when they are in their growing season, which is spring and summer. During this time your plants are growing new leaves and need all the help they can get! So in the spring and summer you want to add liquid fertilizer to your watering routine every other week. Liquid fertilizer is the easiest to use and generally the safest for your plant. But you always want to follow the instructions on the package when diluting it into water so that you don’t accidentally use too much! If you aren’t careful you can give your plant fertilizer burn.

When it is fall you want to taper off fertilizing your Fiddle Leaf Fig to every three or four weeks. This is so your plant can get ready for its dormant stage in winter.

What NPK Ratio Does a Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Need?

Fertilizer Terminology can be confusing if you’ve never encountered it before. NPK stand for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Every plant needs a different blend of these nutrients, which is why you can find plant specific fertilizers.

Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2. This is because they have the high-nitrogen content that these plants crave.

Which Fertilizer is Best for a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

So now that you know how and when to fertilize you’re probably wondering which fertilizer you should get. You’ll find plenty of fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2 that will work just fine. However, Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food is formulated specifically for these plants and provides instructions on best care.

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

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Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig TreesLéon & GeorgeJune 22, 2023Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Comment

Top 6 Problems with Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees

Six ways to tell if your fiddle leaf fig tree is healthy

What are signs of an unhealthy Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Fiddle Leaf Figs are notoriously finicky plants. From brown spots to dropping leaves, there are a few common ailments of this plant that can sicken it, or worse, quickly lead to its demise. Keeping an eye out and catching them early is key to keeping your plant happy and healthy. Look for these signs of a potentially unhealthy Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Brown spots on the leaves
New growth is smaller than the older leaves
Dropping leaves
Leaves turning yellow
Stunted or slow growth
Dirty or dusty leaves

Brown spots on the leaves

Fiddle Leaf Figs are incredible prone to browning on their leaves. While minor markings here and there are nothing to worry about, brown spots that begin to develop and spread should be looked into.

Unfortunately it can be quite difficult to diagnose the issue, as most brown spots on Fiddles are caused by two opposing forces: over watering or under watering. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Brown spots that start in the middle of the leaf and spread outwards are likely caused by overwatering, which in turn causes root rot. Root rot is a fungal infection that will spread to the leaves and eventually kill your plant. If your plant has root rot, you will need to repot, sooner rather than later. Remove the plant from its soil, thoroughly wash the roots and remove any that are brown or mushy. Afterwards, repot in fresh soil with proper drainage and cut off the affected leaves.

Are your Fiddle’s brown spots are starting on the edge of the leaves and spreading inward? This is likely caused by the plant being overly dry. Give your Fiddle a good shower, and also make sure it’s not placed too close to any air vents or heaters, that will likely dry the plant out faster than what’s ideal.

Finally, brown spots may appear randomly due to trauma. A plant can go through trauma simply by moving homes (i.e. changing environments). If your plant has just one or two damaged brown leaves, cut them off at the stem and give your plant time to recover.

The new growth is smaller than the older leaves

New growth is always a great sign of a healthy plant, and if the leaves on your Fiddle grow large and strong, that means your plant is thriving.

However, if the new leaves grow in small and stunted, it could be a sign that your plant is lacking in nutrients. If it’s been years since you repotted, consider repotting to give your plant fresh soil, or simply fertilize your plant in the spring and summer to give it the extra nutrients it needs.

Dropping leaves

Fiddle Leaf Figs can sometimes seem to drop leaves at the drop of a hat. One leaf here and there is nothing to worry about, but if your plant has lost multiple leaves within a few days, you will need to act fast to save the tree. Once again, the most likely causes of leaf drop in Fiddle Leaf Figs is under watering or over watering. So how can you tell the difference? Look at where the leaves are falling from the plant: if the older leaves (towards the bottom) are going first, it’s likely over watering. However, if the leaves are falling off from all over the plant, it’s likely under watering. Here are more ways to tell the difference.

Leaves turning yellow

Are you seeing yellow leaves on your Fiddle Leaf Fig? There are a few possible causes:

Not enough light. Fiddle Leaf Figs need as much bright indirect light as possible. A bit of direct sunlight is fine too, but avoid areas of medium or low light. Also keep in mind that a Fiddle that does not get enough light is more prone to over watering.
Poor nutrition. Your Fiddle could show yellow leaves due to a lack of nutrients in the soil, and you may consider feeding your plant with liquid fertilizer
Pests. Fiddles may also show yellow leaves if they are suffering from an insect infestation. If you suspect this is the case, thoroughly examine both the top and bottom sides of the leaves for any possible bugs.

Stunted or slowed growth

Healthy Fiddles usually grow new leaves every four to six weeks during spring and summer. Growth tends to be in spurts, and it’s possible to see your plant grow several new leaves in a matter of just a few days or weeks! In the winter, it’s normal not to have any new growth. If you aren’t seeing the type of growth that’s normal with this plant, once again, it may be in need of fresh nutrients in the form of a good plant fertilizer .

Dirty or dusty leaves

When was the last time you cleaned the leaves of your plant? Plants not only absorb sunlight through their leaves, but they also breathe through them too! If your plant has a layer of dust on its large leaves, it won’y be able to perform either of these functions as well as we’d like. Cleaning the leaves on your Fiddle Leaf Fig every few months is a great way to keep the plant healthy, glowing, and vibrant. Here you can read about a few different ways to clean your Fiddle Leaf Fig.

While Fiddle Leaf Figs can be relatively low maintenance plants, they are known to be pickier than most. Keep a regular watering schedule, fertilize in the spring and summer, and above all, make sure your plant is getting the light it needs throughout the year (yes, this may mean moving it in the winter!). Keep an eye out for any of these signs, as catching them early is key to keeping your plant looking fresh and feeling good!

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

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Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig TreesLéon & GeorgeFebruary 16, 2023Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Comments

Are You Starving Your Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Fertilizer is an important tool for potted plants, and with their large, dense foliage and tendency for fast growth, Fiddle Leaf Figs are no exception! One common mistake plant parents make is rarely or never fertilizing, which can result in slow or stunted growth and poor overall health. So how often should you fertilize, and with what? Here we’ll answer a few common questions when it comes to fertilizing your Fiddle Leaf Fig!

How Often Should You Fertilize a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Unlike their counterparts in the wild which live in the ground and are constantly replenished with nutrients, our potted plants depend a great deal on the extra nutrients we feed them in their soil. While potting soil contains plenty of nutrients itself, if it’s been over a year since you last repotted or fertilized, it’s very possible your plant’s nutrient level is severely depleted. Fertilizing your plant every 2-4 weeks in the spring and summer is good practice to keep it looking vibrant and healthy!

How Should You Fertilize a Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant?

There are a few different ways to fertilize a Fiddle Leaf Fig. No matter how you fertilize, one thing to be careful with is overdoing it, as this can lead to leaf scorch or fertilizer burn in any indoor plant—not just Fiddles! Also keep in mind that fertilizing is not necessary during the winter, as this is when plants typically slow down their growth and have less need for extra nutrients.

Here are a few different ways to fertilize your Fiddle Leaf Fig:

With liquid fertilizer, which is usually diluted in water and simply watered over the soil.
With dry fertilizer, usually by sprinkling over the top of the soil and then watering.
Foliar feeding, or misting the plant with something like Plant Elixir.

What is the Best Fertilizer for a Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant?

Plant fertilizers have a specific N-P-K ratio, which represents the amount of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium in the solution. Indoor plant food is formulated specifically for, you guessed it, indoor plants! But we can get even more specific than that with an N-P-K ratio designed specifically for the needs of the Fiddle Lead Fig. According to the Fiddle Leaf Fig expert, Claire Akin, this ratio is 3-1-2.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food is a great choice for fertilizing this specific plant, and is gentle enough to use at each watering. You may also try foliar feeding with something like Modern Colony’s Plant Elixir, which is diluted in water and then sprayed on the leaves, and can be used in tandem with liquid fertilizer.

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Symptoms of a dry Fiddle Leaf Fig

Determining if your Fiddle is underwatered or overwatered requires a bit of intuition, but chronically dry Fiddles do show a few kew differences from overwatered ones, and one is curled leaves.

Another way to tell your plant is underwatered is noticing where the brown spots lie. Oftentimes, brown spots on a dry Fiddle will show up on the edge of the leaf, versus in the middle near the “veins”. The brown spots will also often appear all over the plant, from top to bottom, whereas root rot usually starts to affect only the bottom leaves first.

Finally, and probably most importantly, the leaves of your dry fiddle leaf fig may look otherwise healthy, whereas the leaves of a plant with root rot will begin to look sickly, with either yellow, droopy, or “spotted” leaves. Furthermore, while both cases will show leaf drop, usually overwatered Fiddles drop their bottom leaves first, whereas a dry Fiddle will drop leaves from anywhere on the plant.

Symptoms of an overwatered Fiddle Leaf Fig

A telltale sign of too much water and/or root rot in Fiddle Leaf Figs is brown spots near the center of the leaves, as well as around the edges. Multiple yellow almost always means too much water.

Overwatered Fiddles will also show a general browning, with tiny dark spots or shady areas, that can spread quickly from one leaf to another over the course of a week.

As mentioned above, you may also notice that your plant drops its bottom leaves first. That could be a sign of root rot, as plants tend to protect their new growth and shed the older leaves first.

If you’re still not sure, try using a moisture meter to check the moisture levels in your plant’s roots.

What about erratic watering?

To make things even more confusing, sometimes plants will show signs of both underwatering and overwatering. You aren’t going mad! Your plant may experience both, and that could be a result of erratic watering.

Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive on routine, so if necessary, set reminders to water your plant more or less at the same time every week (or two!)—whatever makes the most sense to water your plant consistently to ensure that the roots dry out just enough between waterings.

Our ultimate watering guide for Fiddle Leaf Figs has more information on determining the best watering situation for your plant. Léon & George customers also have 24/7 access to our digital plant doctors, should you need personalized assistance. Good luck!

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig TreesLéon & GeorgeNovember 19, 2021Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, Plant Care, Watering Comments

The Ultimate Guide to Watering Your Fiddle Leaf Fig

Watering can prove challenging to even the proudest houseplant owners, especially when it comes to members of the ficus family. The Fiddle Leaf Fig (ficus lyrata) is especially notorious for frustrating its owners with its picky watering needs. First-time owners of these plants are prone to overwatering, which can lead to health issues such as root rot. Those fearful of overwatering thus underwater their Fiddle Leaf Figs. So how to find a happy balance when watering? Read on to find out.

How to Tell How Much Water Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Really Needs

It can be hard for some to diagnose whether their Fiddle Leaf Fig has been getting over or under-watered. But your plant will always tell you what it needs through its leaves and soil. Luckily, reading these signs gets easier with time. Some simple questions to ask yourself to know if you are overwatering are:

Am I watering more than once a week? Watering once a week at most is what your Fiddle Leaf Fig needs. Depending on the conditions of the environment (light, humidity, temperature), it could be even less!
Do I feel my plant’s soil before watering? You should always stick your finger an inch or two into your plant’s soil to feel how damp it is. If the soil is wet to the touch from the last time you watered, wait until it dries out more. If you aren’t checking in before watering, it can be easy to overdo it.
Do my plant’s leaves have dark spots or edges? Brown spots around the edges or center of leaves is a symptom of overwatering and root rot.
Is there a musty odor coming from my plant? Make sure that your plant is not sitting in a pool of water in its decorative container. Besides leading to fungal infections, this can also attract insects.
Does my plant’s pot have a drainage hole? Ideally, your plant should be in its plastic nursery pot inside of its decorative container. This allows for the best drainage and lets you maneuver your plant more easily. If you want your plant to just be in a decorative container make sure that it has a drainage hole.

For all the reasons listed above, owners of this plant can become leery of overwatering. But being too withholding with water can lead to its own batch of health issues for the Fiddle Leaf Fig. Here are some questions to ask yourself if you suspect you’ve been under-watering your plant:

Are the newer leaves smaller than the older leaves? If the newest leaves on your Fiddle Leaf Fig are much smaller than older ones your plant is likely struggling to get what it needs. Smaller leaves can point to a lack of water, nutrients, or light.
Is your plant rapidly dropping leaves? This can be caused by low humidity or thirst. Make sure that your plant isn’t in front of a vent where it is getting blasted with dry air.
Is the top inch of its soil dry to the touch? While you should let your Fiddle Leaf Fig dry out a bit between waterings you do not want to let your plant become bone dry. Allow your plant to dry out for brief periods before watering.
Are the edges of leaves brown and crumpled? These brown patches will start at the edges of leaves and work their way inwards. If they feel dry then your plant is probably thirsty.
Are the leaves curling inwards? This is a sign of a severely underwatered Fiddle Leaf Fig. You can give your plant a shower but it will probably need some time to fully recover.

If asking yourself these questions did not make it any more clear whether you are over or under-watering your Fiddle Leaf Fig, it’s usually safe to assume that you are overwatering. You are not alone! Concerned plant parents tend to overwater, and most indoor plant failures are a result of loving the plant a little too much when it comes to water! Try to check in with your plant more regularly and take time to inspect its leaves. Your plant will communicate to you what it needs through them. Once you have learned to properly read the signs, taking care of it will feel far easier.

So How Often Should You Water Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant?

A general rule of thumb is that Fiddle Leaf Figs do not need to be watered more than once a week. This can of course depend on the time of year, the amount of sunlight your plant receives, and the temperature and humidity levels of your home. But picking a day of the week to water on can take some of the guesswork out of when you need to water next. If on your designated day your plant still feels moist to the touch simply check back in with it later. Over time you may be able to determine exactly how many days your unique Fiddle Leaf Fig needs between waterings!

But remember — this strategy will only work if your plant has proper drainage. If your plant is in a pot without a drainage hole or has compacted soil you will struggle to improve its condition. If your plant’s soil is still wet to the touch a week after you watered it likely needs better drainage. If you’re unsure how to give your plant the drainage it needs try reading our guide on how to create the perfect drainage for Fiddle Leaf Figs.

The thing that your plants want most from you is consistency— don’t stress and change too many things at once. Simply make small changes, like moving your plant to a new window or adjusting your watering routine, and observe how your plant responds. Once you’ve found a rhythm, also try to give your plant the same amount of water every week.

How Much Water Do Fiddle Leaf Figs Need?

The amount of water your Fiddle Leaf Fig needs each week is unique and depends on the conditions of your home.

A simple rule that many owners like to follow is to give a cup per two feet. So if your plant is two feet tall from the base of the soil to the tallest leaf then you would give it one cup of water a week. This scales upwards, two cups if it is four feet, and so on. This rule can be helpful if you are just figuring things out but it doesn’t take the unique needs of your plant into account. So if you are following carefully observe how your plant responds. Is it drying out quickly? It needs more water. Is it still wet after a week? Scale back the water. Most importantly, always make sure that your plant is not sitting in water!

How Should You Fertilize A Fiddle Leaf Fig?

The growing season for most plants is the spring and summer. This is when your Fiddle Leaf Fig will be dedicating most of its resources to developing new branches and leaves. You will want to supplement your plant’s soil with fertilizer during this time to make sure that it is getting all of the nutrients that it needs. This is quite easy and can be done when you water. During the growing season simply dilute some liquid fertilizer into water and water your plant like usual. When your plant is winding down for a restful winter in the fall you should only fertilize every other time you water. You don’t want to fertilize in winter because your plant is dormant and not growing.

It’s best to use a liquid house plant fertilizer like our Boost Vitaminé, formulated to provide optimal nutrition for your plant.

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig TreesLéon & GeorgeNovember 14, 2021Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Comment

Home At Last: Find the Perfect Placement For Your Fiddle Leaf Fig!

When it comes to owning a Fiddle Leaf Fig, the best thing that you can do for your plant is place it in the optimal spot in your home (with watering properly a close second!). Fiddle Leaf Figs are incredibly picky about their placement, and need the perfect balance of bright sunlight without direct exposure to harsh rays. Too much sun and your plant will burn, but too little sun and you will have a plant that seems to barely grow, drops its leaves, and is susceptible to all sorts of illnesses. Read on if you want to place your Fiddle Leaf Fig in the best light!

Where to place your Fiddle Leaf Fig

Whenever you add a new plant to your collection try to consider the natural conditions in which they thrive. Fiddle Leaf Figs naturally grow under the bright African sun, although they are actually banyan trees in the wild. This means that they grow high up in the branches of other trees and are protected from the sun’s direct rays. As such, bright, filtered light is what is best for these plants.

If you have a large window that receives lots of light and has a sheer curtain, that is perhaps the most ideal setup. You want to find a happy balance between lots of light without it being too direct.

In certain temperate areas, such as parts of southern California, you can actually keep Fiddle Leaf Figs outside in full sun. Outside in domestic conditions these plants will typically only grow to 25 feet tall. If you’re going to keep one outside try to place it somewhere where it isn’t in the shadow of larger plants and where it cannot cast a shadow on smaller plants. Remember that if your plant normally lives indoors, you will want to slowly acclimate it to direct sun if you plan on moving it outdoors.

Assessing Light for Fiddle Leaf Figs

While it can be tempting to place your Fiddle Leaf Fig wherever it best complements your decor, you (and your Fiddle!) will be better off in the long run if you consider first its light needs. It should be at least a couple feet away from any windows, although near a window is fine. You just want to avoid it getting too much direct sun. If you have a gauzy curtain that can filter the sun’s light for you Fiddle Leaf Fig that’s even better. Ideally, the window should be facing either south or east. You just don’t want to put a Fiddle Leaf Fig near a north-facing window as it likely won’t get enough light.

If you don’t know which direction the windows in your home face a simple way to find out is to use a compass app on your phone. Having this knowledge will make you an even better plant owner.

Photo credit : The Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource Center

Which Direction Should Your Fiddle Leaf Fig’s Window Face?

Check to see which direction your window faces to be sure it’s a good match for your Fiddle. This guide should be helpful for those who live in North America:

North-facing windows receive the least amount of sunlight, so you don’t want to put your Fiddle Leaf Fig in front of one if you can help it. However, if you live in a southern temperate region such windows might receive enough light. The farther north of the equator you are the less light such windows receive.

East-facing windows receive a good amount of early morning sun, but they catch little of the sun’s afternoon light. This is a problem because your Fiddle Leaf fig needs at least 6 hours of cumulative sunlight a day. Consider the size of your window carefully and observe whether it receives any midday light.

West-facing windows receive the most midday light. This is when the sun’s rays are most intense. So you need to be careful is you are going to put your Fiddle Leaf Fig in front of one, its leaves could get scorched. Keep your plant at least a couple of feet away from the window to protect it.

South-facing windows receive the brightest sunlight for the longest period of time. This makes them ideal for Fiddle Leaf Figs. Just make sure you don’t place your plant directly by the window or you could risk burning its leaves.

Fiddle Leaf Figs are known for being finicky but they are able to adapt to less than ideal lighting. If you don’t have the best lighting for your plant just focus on making the rest of their care as good as possible. Be careful not to overwater and fertilize with fiddle leaf fig plant food. And don’t forget to rotate your Fiddle Leaf Fig when you water! You plant craves sunlight and will lean towards its light source over time. Leaves without regular exposure to sunlight will also be less healthy.

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees, Plant CareLéon & GeorgeNovember 1, 2021Plant Care, Fiddle Leaf Fig TreeComment

Choosing the Best Soil for Your Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle Leaf Figs are known for their beauty, grace, and of course, finicky nature. While they can be pretty low maintenance plants (we promise!), setting them up in ideal conditions is key to success in their care. As such, choosing the correct soil is important when potting or repotting your Fiddle Leaf Fig. Fast draining, well aerated soils are ideal, as this plant prefers relatively dry soil to keep its roots moist but not wet.

Keep in mind that soil for indoor plants provides a handful of basic functions for your plant:

Serves as a place for the roots to anchor and support the plant
Provides nutrients for growth and photosynthesis
Allows the roots to access oxygen
Delivers water to the entire plant, via the root system!

So which soil is best for your Fiddle Leaf Fig? Read on to find out!

Which Soil is Best for Your Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Most houseplant soil blends use perlite to aid with drainage and peat moss to retain moisture. Any good quality houseplant soil mix will work for your Fiddle Leaf Fig, such as MiracleGro indoor potting mix , which is specifically designed to provide aeration, fast drainage, and nutrition for your plants, and is also resistant to fungus and gnats.

Giving your Fiddle proper drainage

Even if you purchase the very best soil on the market, it won’t matter if your plant does not have proper drainage. Fiddle Leaf Figs can be incredible unforgiving with overwatering, so set your plant up in a container with good drainage to make sure it gets the most out of its fresh soil!

How to fertilize your Fiddle Leaf Fig

The soil we give our plants is not an endless source of nutrients, and in fact only really nourishes our plants for ~6 or so months. After that, it’s a good idea to fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the spring, summer, and early fall. Any indoor plant food will provide fresh nutrients, and we recommend our all natural plant food for leafy beauties like this one.

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

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Fiddle Leaf Fig TreesLéon & GeorgeAugust 15, 2021Plant care, Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Comment

How To Create The Perfect Drainage for a Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle Leaf Figs can be unforgiving plants if their requirements are not fully met. Beyond the very basic need—plenty of bright, indirect light—making sure your Fiddle Leaf Fig has proper drainage is probably the most important piece in ensuring a healthy and beautiful plant. And while this is the case for all indoor plants, none will let you know as quickly as a Fiddle Leaf Fig! So what type of drainage does this plant need, and how can you be sure your plant is getting proper drainage?

What Type of Drainage Do Fiddle Leaf Figs Need?

First of all, Fiddle Leaf Figs like to dry out between waterings, plain and simple. That means they don’t want to be watered too frequently, and they prefer a fast-draining soil. In the wild, this plant is never sitting in water or completely drenched: its roots are constantly draining. This is what we want to mimic indoors.

What happens if the soil cannot properly drain? The plant will accumulate moisture, and the roots may eventually develop root rot. As such, making sure your Fiddle Leaf Fig (and really any indoor plant!) has proper drainage is key to keeping it healthy and vibrant.

Creating Perfect Drainage for Your Fiddle Leaf Fig

There are a few different ways to pot plants for optimal drainage, but no matter what the case, your pot must have drainage holes, one way or another. We do not recommend potting this plant, which is known to be particularly finicky, in a pot without drainage holes. Never attempt to grow a fiddle leaf fig in a container without drainage holes. Here are a few different ways you can create drainage for your Fiddle Leaf Fig:

Use a pot with one large drainage hole at the bottom, usually the case with terracotta pots
Use a pot with several drainage holes, like some plastic pots, and then simply place your plant in the decorative container.
Add a layer of gravel or drainage rocks to the bottom of any pot, though we still recommend using a pot with drainage holes.

Do you have a decorative pot with no drainage holes? While some people like to DIY it by drilling a hole on the bottom, this can be cumbersome and also risks breaking the pot! In this case, we recommend “staging” your plant, which means leaving it in its plastic nursery pot and simply placing it inside the decorative container.

In fact, we do this for all of our plants, as it not only ensures optimal drainage but also allows our customers to use stylish mid-century plant stands!

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.

Indoor plants, potted & delivered

Premium plants paired with stylish pots, plus lifetime plant care support. Order online at leonandgeorge.com

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Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees, Plant CareLéon & GeorgeNovember 15, 2020Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, Plant Care Comment

3 Simple Secrets to a Healthy Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

If you haven’t heard, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is the plant of our era. But despite the place that it has won in our collective hearts and homes, many of us still do not know how to care for it properly. Even simple tasks like watering can cause issues for many owners.

Apart from trendy, stunning, and structural, Fiddle Leaf Figs are also described as finicky, delicate, and hard to please. But is that really the case? Truth be told, this plant often lands in the homes of brand new plant parents who could not resist the appeal. And while everyone can and should experience the joy that plants bring into our lives, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is not always our first recommendation for new plant parents! The Fiddle Leaf Fig can be a very low maintenance plant, but knowing the basics—and what to look out for when things go wrong—is crucial to keeping this plant beautiful and growing over time.

Below find the three expert secrets to maintaining a happy and healthy Fiddle Leaf Fig, for both novice and experienced plant owners alike.

The Secret to Keeping Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Happy Is Watering Properly

Fiddle Leaf Figs have unique watering needs and need to dry out for a brief period before being rehydrated. New owners are prone to overwatering their Fiddle Leaf Figs because they do not understand how crucial this cycle is for the plant. But even otherwise experienced plant owners can struggle with over and underwatering this plant. The secret to watering your Fiddle Leaf Fig just right lies in following these three simple tips:

Water your plant once a week. This is a great rule of thumb to get you started. Set a day for this in your calendar so you never forget. Watering once a week is likely the most that you want to water. Depending on the unique conditions of your home your Fiddle Leaf Fig might take longer to dry out between waterings and you might end up watering every 10 days. That’s okay, what is important is that you are giving your plant what it needs on a consistent basis.

Always take a moment to feel your plant’s soil before you water next. Stick your finger, or a chopstick, about two inches into the soil. Does dirt cling to it? If your plant’s soil is still moist and it needs more time before you water again. Did all the dirt fall away when you pulled it out? Your plant’s soil is likely dry enough and you may water. Over time you will begin to figure out how much time your unique Fiddle Leaf Fig needs between watering.

Give your plant the same amount each time you water. Many fiddle leaf fig owners like to follow a rule of one cup of water per two feet of growth from the base of the soil to the tallest leaf. The exact measurement for this rule varies from expert to expert but what we’ll say is that your plant desires consistency most. So try watering your Fiddle Leaf Fig a set amount each week and see how it responds. If it begins drying out faster than usual up the amount of water that you give it. At the end of the day measuring will be more precise than simply pouring water until you think it’s had enough. Also remember that you may need to water more during the warmer months of the year than you might, say, in the winter.

Fertilize your plant each time you water during the spring and summer months. If you want your Fiddle Leaf Fig to produce large glossy leaves then you need to give it the nutrients that it needs. The time to fertilize is from spring to summer, and you can slowly taper off your fertilizing routine in the fall. All that you need to do is add diluted houseplant food or Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food to your plant’s water every week in the spring and summer. This will become every other week in the fall. Your plant needs nutrients for growth that it can’t get from potting soil alone. Using a diluted liquid fertilizer will supplement the nutrients in your plant’s soil and might be just what you need if the newer leaves on your plant are smaller than the old ones.

Now you know the secret to maintaining an Instagram-worthy Fiddle Leaf Fig! Remember that patience is key, and always keep growing!

This post was adapted from the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource by expert Claire Akin. Head to their website to learn more about caring for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.