Fiddle Leaf Fig , Ficus Lyrata Bambino – Plant

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Fiddle leaf fig plants (Ficus lyrata) are popular houseplants known for their large, violin-shaped leaves. While beautiful, they can be a bit particular about their care.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your fiddle leaf fig :

1. Light:

• Bright, indirect light is key. Fiddle leaf figs love a lot of light, but direct, harsh sunlight can scorch their leaves, leading to white or tan patches.
• Ideal placement: A few feet from a south or west-facing window, or directly in front of an east-facing window, is often ideal.
• Rotate regularly: Turn your plant 90 degrees every 1-3 weeks to ensure even growth and prevent it from leaning towards the light.
• Signs of insufficient light: Slow growth, leggy appearance (long spaces between leaves), dull spots on leaves, and leaves turning yellow.
• Artificial lighting: If natural light is limited, consider using an LED grow light for 10-16 hours a day, placed 6-12 inches above the plant.

2. Watering:

• “Soak and dry” method: Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Discard any excess water in the saucer. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again.
• Frequency:
  • During the growing season (spring and summer): Every 7-10 days on average.
  • During the dormant season (fall and winter): Every 10-14 days on average.
• Factors affecting frequency: Pot size and material (terra cotta dries faster), temperature, humidity, and light exposure. Always check the soil moisture, don’t just stick to a rigid schedule.
• Signs of overwatering: Yellowing leaves, black or brown spots on leaves (often indicating root rot), mushy stems, and leaves dropping.
• Signs of underwatering: Drooping, limp leaves, crispy brown edges, and lower leaves turning yellow and dropping.
• Water type: Filtered water, distilled water, rainwater, or tap water left out for 24 hours (to allow chlorine to dissipate) are best.

3. Soil & Potting:

• Well-draining soil: Use a high-quality potting mix that provides good drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy, clay-like soils.
• Drainage is crucial: Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating around the roots, which leads to root rot. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, be extra careful with watering and consider using aeration stones at the bottom.
• Repotting: Repot into a container that’s 3-4 inches wider in diameter and 1/2 to 2 inches taller than its current pot when the plant becomes root-bound. Early spring or summer is the best time for repotting.

4. Temperature & Humidity:

• Temperature: Fiddle leaf figs are tropical plants and prefer warm, consistent temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C).
• Avoid drafts: Keep them away from air vents, open windows, and drafty areas, as sudden temperature fluctuations can cause leaf drop.
• Humidity: They love high humidity (50-65%). If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider:
  • Misting the leaves occasionally.
  • Using a pebble tray with water underneath the pot.
  • Placing a humidifier nearby.

5. Fertilizing:

• During the growing season: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
• During dormant season: Reduce or stop fertilizing during fall and winter.
• Avoid over-fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can burn the roots. Always follow the product instructions for dosage.

6. Pruning:

• Shaping and promoting growth: Pruning can help create a more balanced shape and encourage new growth.
• Best time: Early spring or summer.
• Propagation: You can use pruned stems for propagation through stem cuttings or air layering.

7. Cleaning Leaves:

• Dust can accumulate on the large leaves, hindering photosynthesis. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean.

8. Common Problems & Solutions:

• Yellowing leaves: Often due to overwatering, but can also be from underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or temperature changes.
• Brown spots/patches:
  • Brown edges/tips: Usually underwatering or low humidity.
  • Black spots: Often a sign of root rot from overwatering.
  • White/tan patches: Sunburn from too much direct sunlight.
  • Small brown spots: Could indicate a pest infestation.
  • Large brown patches with undefined edges and yellow rings: Possibly bacterial leaf spot.
• Leaf drop: Can be caused by rapid changes in temperature, humidity, or light, overwatering, underwatering, or transplant shock.
• Pests: Inspect your plant regularly for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if found.
• No new growth: Could be due to insufficient light, lack of fertilizer, or needing a larger pot.

Important Note: Fiddle leaf figs are mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin. Keep them out of reach of children and pets, and wear gloves when handling if you have sensitive skin.