Fiddle leaf figs are right now the most advertised flowering plants out there- due to the unique charm, they add to minimalistic homes. So, if you’re thinking about getting one of these plants in your home, it’s always a good idea to learn about caring for them properly.
So, if you’re wondering how to take care of fiddle leaf fig, don’t worry because I’ve got you covered. I’ve come up with this discussion to help you taking care of a fiddle leaf fig in your home without any hassles.
What Is a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Scientifically known as the Ficus lyrata, this is an attractive plant belonging to the fig/ mulberry clan.
Comprising of large green leaves, these fig plants look exceptional in any home setting. Their leaves are usually highly veined and in the shape of violins, making them look more unique than anything else you’ve seen.
They grow up to 10 feet indoors and can have a maximum height of around 50 feet outdoors, which is pretty amazing.
How to Take Care of Fiddle Leaf Figs
Considering how beautiful they are, you need to invest a lot of time and effort into maintaining these beauties. Let’s have a quick look at how you can care for these plants;
Temperature and Light
Fiddle Leaf Figs are known for their warm origins in central Africa. By this, you can already assume how much heat they’re accustomed to.
These plants require a warm and humid environment to grow in with plenty of water and sunlight. Please select a location for your plant where it gets the best sunlight exposure. Since they have big leaves, their cell count is pretty high, so the more the sunlight, the better their food production.
A temperature of around 60-75°F and a humidity between 30-60% will do the job for these plants.
Keep in mind that you need to keep them away from air vents to maintain their sustainability. Choose a light setting where they will receive a maximum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil
When I’m talking about raising fiddle leaf figs, let’s not talk forget the soil that they need. Soil is one of the most important factors when it comes to taking care of these plants.
These beautiful plants require loamy and well-drained soil to grow well. Try looking for loamy soil with a medium moisture level to them. Components like coconut coir or peat, pine bark, sawdust, and different mineral rocks make the soil for Fiddle Leaf Fig.
Usually, with this composition, you can be assured about the pH, water retention, fertilizer absorption rate as well the introduction of air within the roots. With the best soil for fiddle leaf fig, your plants will have the best growth and transition.
Water
Like any other plant, fiddle leaf figs are dependent on water for their growth and survival. Without an appropriate amount of water, these plants will lose their color and beauty and eventually die.
Since these plants require a good deal of moisture in their soil, water is vital for them. Therefore, increase your watering habits during their growing season and reduce it during the winters.
To minimize salt accumulation with the water, try to flush the soil until you notice water reaching the pot base once a month. Since an excess of salt can be bad for the roots, this process might help you keep your figs safe and sound.
Fertilizers
Fertilizers play a huge impact when you’re taking care of fiddle leaf figs. Since these plants are widely available and are quite special, you can find fertilizers designed exclusively for fiddle leaf figs.
These plants usually need fertilizers throughout their growing season. A plant food rich in nitrogen will be perfect for them. It’s better to opt for commercially available ones exclusive for these plants to save some effort into choosing a good fertilizer.
Potting and Repotting
When you’re done choosing the proper environmental conditions, let’s talk about potting and repotting your fig plants.
It’d be best if you repotted fiddle leaf fig once a year for the best results. Choose spring as the season since this is the best and most favorable time for repotting it.
With a strong container around 2 inches bigger than the former one, place the plant inside it by firmly propping up the base of the plant. Use the soil mix to cover the bottom of the plant, and you’ll be good to go.
Try changing the topsoil each year by adding new and crisp soil instead. Maintain the potting temperature at 55-60°F to provide the best conditions for your young plant to grow well.
Preventing Diseases
Last but not least, all plant needs extra attention to prevent any major diseases from minimizing their growth.
Like most figs, these spider mites and a few fungal diseases can attack these plants, which can be severe for hampering their maturation.
Observe the plants every once in a while, and look for signs of dark spots, big patches, or the presence of any mites on top of the leaves.
With these danger signs, you can have an idea that your figs have been affected. Use a good quality fungicide, pesticide, etc., to provide adequate treatment to the plants.
You can prevent such diseases by maintaining good airflow within the plants and avoiding damp areas for storage.
Final Words
Summing it up, I can say fiddle fig leaves are one of the most beautiful plants that you can raise in your home and if you take care of them, they will grow perfectly.
They need proper maintenance and care if you plan to nurture them. However, with the discussion on how to take care of fiddle leaf figs, you can bring these plants up indoors without any difficulty.
