Greetings! Let’s talk about Ficus lyrata, the well-known Fiddle Leaf Fig. Whether you have only thought about growing this handsome plant, recently purchased it, or owned a Fiddle Leaf Fig for some time, Winter Gardens is pleased to offer some tips for successful long-term Fiddle care.
Maybe you’ve heard that Fiddle Leaf Figs are hard to care for. While these natives of tropical West Africa don’t take abuse as easily as some plants may, Fiddles are very responsive to intelligent care, and they are not beyond your ability to cultivate with rewarding success.
We will focus here on four key areas: lighting, watering, fertilizer, and temperature. If you address these four factors properly, expect your Fiddle to respond happily.
Lighting — Remember, plants get all of their energy from the sun. Fiddle Leaf Figs require more light than you may suspect–somewhere between bright indirect light and soft direct sunlight. An eastern window (Fiddle Leaf Fig Care, n.d.) providing morning light will serve your specimen beautifully and allow God’s miracle of photosynthesis to progress seamlessly.
Watering — As a tropical plant, your Fiddle Leaf Fig will require ample moisture. However, since conscientious house plant owners tend to over-water, a LARGE word of caution here. Only water after the top inch or two of your Fiddle’s soil has dried out (Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Care 101, 2020). Then provide a good drink. Your goal should be to water deeply and infrequently. But don’t let your fiddle reach the point of water stress.
Fertilization — A balanced houseplant fertilizer will give your Fiddle the nutrition it needs for healthy growth. Only fertilize during the spring and summer while your plant is growing. Your tree will need no fertilizer during the winter months while it is dormant. Apply fertilizer several times throughout the growing season according to the label dosage.
Climate — Fiddle Leaf Figs have been know to fuss about their climate. They do not respond well to changing light levels and temperatures. Because of this, do not be surprised if your new tree drops some leaves as it adjusts to your home or business environment. Since Fiddle Leaf Figs appreciate warm conditions, ensure that you have no A/C vents or other cold drafts in the vacinity of your plant. With time, your new specimen should recover, settle in to its new home, and begin looking sharp once again.
Have you admired the dramatic foliage and dark-green leaves of the Fiddle Leaf Fig and wished you could grow one yourself? Following the tips outlined here, success is more than likely within your easy reach. Give it a go!
Sources
Akin, C. n.d. Retrieve 7/26/21 from https://fiddleleaffigplant.com/fertilize-a-fiddle-leaf-fig/
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care, n.d. Retrieved 7/26/21 from https://bloomscape.com/plant-care-guide/fiddle-leaf-fig/#g1
Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Care 101 (2020). Retrieve 7/26/21 from https://www.platthillnursery.com/fiddle-leaf-fig-plant-care/
Fiddle Me This: Caring for a Fiddle Leaf Fig. n.d. Retrieve 7/26/21 from https://www.thesill.com/blogs/plants-101/how-to-care-for-a-fiddle-leaf-fig