It’s easy to fall in love with fiddle leaf figs (Ficus lyrata). These stunning plants are cherished for their large, shiny leaves and striking appearance. They can make a bold statement in any room, potentially reaching heights of up to 10 feet. However, while fiddle leaf figs have many admirers, they are known to be a bit challenging to care for. They require specific growing conditions to flourish, making them less beginner-friendly than other plants.
Watering is a crucial aspect of fiddle leaf fig care. Too much or too little water can quickly lead to issues for your plant. We’ve consulted with professional gardeners and horticulturists to provide you with expert advice on properly watering this particular plant, including helpful tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Meet the Experts:
– Justin Costa, horticulturist at Costa Farms
– Linda Langelo, horticulture specialist at Colorado State University Extension
– Sharon Yiesla, plant knowledge specialist at the Morton Arboretum
How Often to Water:
Like many plants, there isn’t a fixed schedule for watering your fiddle leaf fig. However, ensuring that these trees are adequately hydrated is essential. “Fiddle leaf figs come from the rainforest, where they experience heavy rainfall for extended periods,” explains Linda Langelo from Colorado State University Extension. “They can tolerate prolonged moisture.” Instead of a set timetable, your watering routine should be based on the plant’s needs. “Watering should be based on necessity rather than a strict schedule,” says Sharon Yiesla from the Morton Arboretum. “Many houseplants, including fiddle leaf figs, should be watered when the top inch of the soil is dry.” Usually, this occurs approximately every 10 days, but it’s crucial to check the soil’s dryness level before watering.
Factors to Consider:
Various factors such as light exposure, temperature, and even the choice of pot can influence the watering requirements of your fiddle leaf fig.
Soil:
Langelo recommends using well-draining potting soil for fiddle leaf figs. Justin Hancock from Costa Farms suggests that the type of potting mix you use can affect watering frequency. “A potting mix designed to retain moisture may require less frequent watering to prevent waterlogging,” Hancock explains. “The ideal potting mix depends on your watering habits.”
Sunlight and Temperature:
Light plays a significant role in determining how much water your fiddle leaf fig needs. “Light is crucial,” emphasizes Hancock. “More light results in enhanced plant growth and increased water consumption.” These plants thrive in bright, sunny locations, so it’s essential to place them near windows that receive ample sunlight. Temperature also impacts watering frequency, with warmer environments requiring more water. Langelo suggests maintaining a consistent temperature, adjusting your watering schedule if the room temperature fluctuates.
Container:
The choice of pot for
The material of your plant pot matters, especially if it has drainage holes that allow you to monitor the water absorption. Hancock also advises considering other factors, such as the porosity of the materials used in the pot. “Porous materials like clay and terracotta promote more evaporation from the pot’s sides compared to plastic or glazed ceramic pots,” he explains. “As a result, they tend to dry out a bit faster.”
When it comes to watering your fiddle leaf fig, there are different methods you can use. Top watering involves allowing water to flow down through the soil by gravity. Yiesla suggests watering until some water drains out into the saucer, indicating that the entire root ball has been watered thoroughly. Hancock also recommends bottom watering, where you let the plant sit in a dish for about 10 to 15 minutes to absorb water. This method helps prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Overwatering can be detrimental to your plant, manifesting in wilted leaves, brown edges, or soaked soil. To determine if your plant is getting too much water, you can also consider its weight as the potting mix absorbs water.
On the other hand, signs of underwatering include curled and dropping leaves, along with dry soil and a lighter pot. Fiddle leaf figs are popular houseplants but require careful attention to watering and environmental conditions. Sudden changes in temperature, light, or watering frequency can stress the plant, resulting in leaf drop.
Avoiding drastic changes and providing consistent care are key to helping your fiddle leaf fig thrive. Despite their popularity, these plants may not be the best choice for beginners due to their sensitivity to environmental fluctuations. By understanding the specific needs of your fiddle leaf fig and maintaining a stable environment, you can help it flourish in your home.
