Fiddle Fig Care
The fiddle leaf fig makes a gorgeous, architectural statement in any room of the house. These plants can grow up to many feet tall, enveloping a space bringing a jungle feel to any bright room. While this lush plant, with its shiny, violin-shaped leaves, is stunning, it is one of the more difficult to keep alive. Read below for tips to help you keep it thriving in your space.
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Light: Give it bright consistent light, preferably by a sunny window. Turn the plant once it begins to lean toward the light.
Water: Water only when the soil is dry 1 inch down from the top. Then water thoroughly and allow it to drain completely. If these plants do not get enough water, new leaves will turn brown and drop. On the other hand, if they are overwater, the oldest leaves toward the base of the plant will turn brown and fall off.
Some customers have found that covering the plant with ice is the best watering technique. This allows the plant to absorb the water slowly, which they found most effective.
Drafts: Make sure that your window is properly sealed. Figs are used to the still, warm conditions of the rainforest. Cold drafts from windows, doors, and air conditioning units may cause its leaves to dry out and drop.
Soil: These plants require rich, well-drained peaty soil. Plan on re-potting about once a year because once the roots become crowded they will start growing through the container’s drainage hole, causing circulation problems and even root rot.
Fertilizer: Feed with a water-soluble plant food throughout the growing season.