Fiddle Leaf Fig
Meet the Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata), the ultimate plant diva with big, bold, glossy leaves that make a dramatic statement in any room. If you’re looking for a showstopper to elevate your space, this beauty is it! But, as with any diva, she requires a little extra TLC to keep those leaves lush and vibrant. Don’t worry though, we’ve got your back! Let’s break down how to keep your Fiddle Leaf Fig feeling fabulous.
🌞 Light: Bright & Indirect Is the Way to Go Fiddle Leaf Figs love bright, indirect light. They thrive in spots with plenty of natural sunlight, but they’re not fans of direct sun, which can scorch those gorgeous leaves. Place her near a window that lets in lots of light, but avoid harsh, direct rays — she’s more of a “soft glow” kind of gal.
Bonus Tip: If the leaves start to lean toward the light source, that’s your Fiddle Leaf’s way of saying, “Hey, I need a little more sun!” Rotate her every couple of weeks to help her grow evenly.
💦 Watering: Keep It Consistent, But Not Too Much Fiddle Leaf Figs like their soil to be kept moderately moist. Water her when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Be sure to water thoroughly, allowing water to drain out of the pot, but don’t let her sit in water — that can lead to root rot, and no one wants that!
Bonus Tip: In the winter, when growth slows down, your Fiddle Leaf won’t need as much water. Scale back on watering to avoid overwatering during the colder months.
🌡️ Temperature: Warm and Comfy Fiddles are tropical plants, so they like it warm! Keep her in temperatures between 60°F – 75°F (15°C – 24°C) and away from cold drafts. She’s not a fan of chilly temperatures, so avoid placing her near air conditioners, heaters, or cold windows.
Bonus Tip: Be mindful of sudden temperature changes, as this can stress your Fiddle Leaf out. She prefers a consistent environment to stay happy and healthy.
🌱 Humidity: A Little Extra Love Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer moderate to high humidity. If the air is too dry, especially in winter, the tips of the leaves may start turning brown. To boost humidity, consider placing her on a humidity tray, grouping her with other plants, or using a humidifier in the room.
Bonus Tip: Misting the leaves can also help boost humidity, but don’t overdo it — Fiddles don’t like their leaves to be wet all the time. A little mist goes a long way!
🌿 Soil: Well-Draining, Moist Mix Fiddles prefer well-draining soil that retains some moisture but doesn’t stay soggy. A potting mix designed for indoor plants will work, but adding a little perlite to improve drainage is a great idea. The key is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged — soggy soil can lead to root rot, and that’s a no-go!
Bonus Tip: Always ensure the pot has drainage holes. Fiddles are not into sitting in standing water, so make sure the water can escape.
🌳 Potting & Repotting: Keep It Cozy Fiddle Leaf Figs aren’t in a rush to outgrow their pot, but you will need to repot her every 1-2 years, or when you notice the roots are outgrowing the current pot. When repotting, go for a pot that’s about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Bonus Tip: Repot in the spring or early summer when your Fiddle Leaf is actively growing. Avoid repotting in winter when she’s chilling out, as she won’t appreciate the change.
🧹 Cleaning: Show Off Those Gorgeous Leaves Your Fiddle Leaf’s large, glossy leaves deserve to shine! Wipe them down with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to remove dust and help them photosynthesize better. This simple step will keep her looking fabulous and functioning at her best.
Bonus Tip: If you want to go the extra mile, use a plant-safe leaf shine product (nothing too harsh!) to give the leaves a little extra gloss. But remember, a gentle cleaning with water is often enough.
⚡ Troubleshooting: What to Watch For
- Brown Leaf Tips: This can be a sign of low humidity, inconsistent watering, or a sudden change in temperature. Make sure the humidity is sufficient and your watering schedule is regular.
- Yellow Leaves: Yellowing leaves could mean overwatering or underwatering. Check your watering schedule, and make sure the plant is getting the right amount of water. Also, make sure she’s getting enough light.
Dropping Leaves: Fiddles are a bit dramatic with leaf drop if they’re stressed. If leaves are dropping, it could be from a sudden change in environment, a move, or a temperature shift. Try to keep her in a consistent environment with steady light, humidity, and temperature.
Fiddle Leaf Fig’s Signature Look With its large, glossy, fiddle-shaped leaves, the Fiddle Leaf Fig makes a bold statement in any space. Whether placed as a floor plant or in a decorative pot, this plant’s dramatic foliage adds instant style and personality to your home. As long as you give her the love and care she deserves, she’ll reward you with stunning, lush green leaves that elevate your space to the next level.
You’ve got this! Keep those leaves glossy and beautiful by following the basics — bright light, consistent watering, a warm, stable environment, and a little extra humidity — and your Fiddle Leaf Fig will thrive, making your space look fabulous. 🌿✨