FIDDLE LEAF FIG
The big , the bad, the beautiful. I know I say beautiful for all my plants, but the fiddle leaf ficus is always sought out for and also known as a finicky plant. The large foliage on a standard truck is stunning and used to anchor rooms due to its figure. Native to the rainforests of western and central Africa, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree (Ficus lyrata) is a stunning plant.
Fiddle Leaf Figs appreciates a warm, humid environment, a fair amount of water and plenty of light. Choose a location away from air vents and drafts where the tree will receive plenty of bright ambient light. Directly in front of, or close by a southern or western facing window is ideal, and eastern exposure can also work as long as the plant is directly in the window and the space feels very bright. A few hours of direct sun is also beneficial. If placed in a full-sun location with at least 6 hours of direct light, a humid environment will keep your Fiddle Leaf looking its best. Cleaning the leaves periodically will also help with the plant collecting nutrients and rotating the plant for even growth!
Light -
Indirect bright light - East facing window all day
Direct/High Light - West/South facing window
Either closer to the window to absorb more Direct bright light but up to 6 ft away as long as you can still cast a shadow in the location will provide enough light. Keep an eye on how its being watered in these different locations.
Temperature & Humidity:
Tropical plants do best in a humid and slightly warm environment. They thrive best above 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and they love a light misting of water.
If your plant gets too dry, it may begin to develop brown tips on its leaves. In the event that this happens, placing it next to a humidifier will help avoid further damage to the leaves.
If your Fiddle Leaf Fig gets too cold, it may suffer from shock and may even die. Ensure that you are placing this plant away from any drafty windows or A/C vents that could blow cold air onto your plant.
Water:
Water well. Check every 7-10 days.
ensuring all excess water drains and plant is not sitting in any excess water. (Always recommend pots with drainage holes and saucers)
Fiddle Leaf Figs do not need to be watered frequent and it is a plant that can go slightly dry between waterings, but make sure that it’s being watered well.
This allows the plant to dry down correctly vs watering lightly and then giving it 7-10 days. You will notice your plant staying too dry and crispy tips and foliage dropping. Consistency is key.
Overwatering - can cause your plant to die, and wilted or soft leaves that have yellowed are often a sign of overwatering. It is preferable to keep your soil slightly moist, letting it dry out in between waterings and if in doubt let it dry out! Many different factors can change your watering schedule.
Sunlight and seasons affect how quickly a plant will drink water and you just adapt to those changes. That’s what makes it fun!
