I have to admit, there was a bit of a learning curve here as I’ve never considered myself someone with a “green thumb”. But as you know I’m team real plants, and I was completely committed to seeing a fiddle leaf fig (ficus lyrata) thrive in my home. After a few failed attempts, I’m happy to say I am now the proud plant momma to not one but 4 fiddle leaf figs that are happy and healthy! So today I’m sharing what I’ve learned when it comes to caring for the somewhat finicky fiddle leaf fig.
Take Your Fiddle Leaf Fig From Finicky to Thriving With These Simple Tips
1. Don’t Repot It Too Soon After Buying
This is mistake number one, in my humble opinion. I learned this one the hard way. Two things to note here: a.) Fiddles don’t really like a change of location. and b.) They like their roots to be somewhat snug in their pots. So just pulling them out of the store where you bought them and bringing them home is enough of a shock their system. Give them some time to readjust to their new surroundings before further shocking them with a brand new pot. After a few weeks when you do repot, use something that is about the same size as the pot they came in, unless their roots are coming out of the holes at the bottom (which is a good indication that they’re ready for a larger pot).
2. Choose a Good Location, Location, Location
This is everything to a fiddle. They love light ~ specifically indirect light. What is indirect light? It’s basically filtered light where the space is filled with light, but the plant is not being directly hit by the sun’s rays. So choose a bright, sunny spot in your home near a window with some breeze-y curtain panels.
Trying to make a fig thrive in an area with low light is like trying to make fetch happen. 😉 (Who besides me lives for a Mean Girls reference?!) Also of note regarding location, fiddles are not big fans of drafts, especially cold drafts.
3. Do Wipe the Leaves
Photosynthesis can’t really do it’s a thing through a layer of dust. So wipe the leaves down every so often.
4. Feed it Vitamins
Add a cap of this to the soil ~ just mix it with water and pour right in ~ to give your fiddle a boost during the growing season.
The Trick to Watering A Fiddle
Fiddle leaf figs don’t like to be overwatered. They also don’t like to be completely dehydrated. Basically they like a really good soaking and draining, and then they don’t want another drink until they’re almost dry. I like to take my fiddles outside to water them with the hose. Or even better, I bring them out when it’s raining. Then I let the water drain before bringing them back inside.
*A good way to gauge whether your fiddle is ready to be watered is to stick your finger in the soil about 3 inches down to see if it’s dry, if it is, it’s ready for a drink. If it still feels wet you can probably wait a couple of days.
How often you’ll need to water will depend on the weather conditions that affect moisture levels. For example the fiddle leaf figs I have out on my screen porch are being watered every 3 days right now because it’s very warm and humid.
Does Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Have Brown Spots?
Don’t fret, the most common cause is overwatering! So just lay off the watering a bit, and you should be back in business.
Fiddle leaf figs are such beauties! And I promise you, if I can care for them, anyone can! But if you prefer houseplants that require a lot less thinking and seem to thrive on neglect, click here. I got you covered!
You are a rockstart! Four fiddle figs! Great job!