Regardless of where you live or where you’re from, there’s nothing more refreshing than having a houseplant in your space. These decorative items can enhance a room’s aesthetic appeal and reduce stress. They can also help purify the air, improving your well-being.
One of the best houseplants you can get for your living space is the fiddle leaf fig (FDF). This popular option has shiny, violin-shaped leaves that can grow up to six feet tall. While caring for and keeping it alive may be tricky, it will be worth it once you see it thrive.
If you want to enjoy something lovely for your home, let this article help you care for your fiddle leaf fig.
1. Find the Best Location
Put your fiddle leaf fig in a spot that doesn’t have drafts or direct sunlight but still gets a lot of bright, indirect light. Once you find the perfect location, don’t move it! Turn the plant slightly when watering to ensure equal sunlight for all leaves.
2. Clean the Leaves
Wipe down your plant’s leaves with a damp cloth to remove water spots and dust. Don’t use coconut oil because it can suffocate the leaves. Also, dust the leaves monthly to prevent pests and keep your plant looking healthy.
3. Check the Humidity
While fiddle leaf figs prefer warm and humid environments, they can still thrive in homes with 40% humidity. If your home is dry, mist your plant once a week or add a humidifier.
4. Don’t Repot the Plant Immediately
You don’t need to repot your fiddle leaf figs today, but you can place them in a decorative container or basket to hide the plastic pot they came in.
How Can I Water a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Water the plant about once a week or every ten days, soaking the soil until dripping and allowing it to dry completely between waterings. Use a drip tray or take the plant outside to water it. Also, check the soil moisture by inserting your finger or using a meter.
What Are the Effects of Overwatering?
If your fiddle leaf fig has spotted leaves, it may be due to overwatering. This bad habit can lead to harmful bacteria growth and damage the plant’s roots. Fortunately, you can prevent this by allowing the soil to dry between watering sessions.
Can I Save a Rotting Plant?
Remove sickly leaves and assess the root damage if your plant rotates. Remove any rotted sections and repot them in fresh soil. Water with root rot formula, allow the soil to dry before watering again and fertilize as normal if needed. Also, remember that rehabilitating your plant can take half a year or more.
How and When Should I Fertilize the Plant?
If you bought your FLF in spring or summer, fertilize once a month with a fertilizer with a 3:1:2 ratio of nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium. Buy premade fertilizer, mix it in your watering can according to package instructions, and water usually. Don’t fertilize in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Why Should I Prune and Shape My Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Pruning helps remove dead leaves and promote new growth. Use sharp shears and cut at an angle. Don’t remove too many leaves at once. You can encourage new growth by snipping the top or pinching off the bud at the top of the plant.
How and When Should I Repot My Plant?
You should repot your plant when it outgrows its pot or roots start to grow out of drainage holes. Select a slightly more prominent option, add stones to the bottom, add well-draining soil, and place the root ball in the center. Top with soil and water as usual.
Growing for a More Aesthetically Appealing Home
Fiddle-leaf figs are best known for their uniquely shaped leaves, but you must care for them properly if you want them to thrive. You can enjoy something tall and attractive for your home by placing the plant in the best spot, watering it when needed, and conducting regular maintenance.
If you need help removing the brown tips on your fiddle leaf fig, visit House Fur! Our platform is for green living tips and personal updates from living with 100+ houseplants in a Victorian home. Read more of our articles now!