If you’re a plant lover, you’ve probably heard about fiddle-leaf figs. These gorgeous trees are becoming increasingly popular as a houseplant, and for good reason. Fiddle-leaf figs (Ficus lyrata) are available in many plant nurseries and garden centers. They have large, bright green leaves that can grow up to 5 feet long.
One thing to keep in mind when caring for fiddle-leaf figs is that they can be a bit finicky. They thrive in warm, tropical areas, so if you live in a colder climate, you’ll need to create the right conditions for them. They prefer a temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and they should be placed in a western or eastern-facing window to get enough sunlight.
When it comes to watering your fiddle-leaf fig, less is more. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other diseases, so it’s best to let the top inch or so of soil dry out before watering again. On average, fiddle-leaf figs should be watered about once a week, although this can vary depending on the humidity levels in your home.
Fiddle-leaf figs can also be propagated by taking cuttings. To do this, you’ll need to make sure the cutting has at least 3 to 5 leaves, and that it’s taken from a healthy branch of the plant. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone, then place it in a potting mix that drains well. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and within 8 weeks, you should start to see new growth.
One common problem with fiddle-leaf figs is yellowing leaves. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including over or under-watering, too much or too little fertilizer, or a lack of sunlight. If you notice your fiddle-leaf fig’s leaves turning yellow, try adjusting its care routine and see if that helps. Trimming off any yellowing or mushy leaves can also help improve the overall health of the plant.
Now that you have all the information you need to care for your fiddle-leaf fig, it’s time to put your plan into action. These beautiful plants can be a bit high-maintenance, but with the right care, they can thrive and bring a touch of greenery to any space.
(We may receive a commission on purchases made from links)
10 Things Nobody Tells You About Fiddle-Leaf Fig Trees
- 1. Fiddle-leaf fig trees love bright light, but not direct sunlight. Place them near a window where they can get plenty of indirect light.
- 2. Fiddle-leaf fig trees can be fickle with their watering needs. It’s important to find a watering schedule that works for your specific plant.
- 3. Fiddle-leaf fig trees grow slowly, so don’t expect them to become large, leafy trees overnight. Be patient and let them grow at their own pace.
- 4. Fiddle-leaf fig trees are known to be picky about their environment. They don’t like to be moved around too much, so find a spot for them and leave them be.
- 5. Fiddle-leaf fig trees can be prone to bacterial leaf spot disease, especially if they are over-watered or exposed to cold temperatures. Keep an eye out for any signs of disease and take action if necessary.
- 6. Fiddle-leaf fig trees are not the easiest plants to propagate. It takes time and patience to successfully grow new plants from cuttings or seeds.
- 7. Fiddle-leaf fig trees can drop leaves if they are not receiving enough light or are being over-watered. Adjust their care routine accordingly if this happens.
- 8. Ikea sells a popular faux fiddle-leaf fig tree, which is a great option for those who want the look of a fiddle-leaf without the maintenance.
- 9. Fiddle-leaf fig trees are not the only type of fig tree available. There are many other varieties to choose from, each with its own unique shape and leaf type.
- 10. Fiddle-leaf fig trees are a popular houseplant choice thanks to their large, violin-shaped leaves and Instagram-friendly appeal. However, they do require consistent care and attention to thrive indoors.
1 You cannot grow a new fiddle-leaf fig tree from a leaf
If you’ve recently become obsessed with the fiddle-leaf fig plant trend on Instagram, you might be tempted to try growing your own from just a leaf. However, unlike some other houseplants, fiddle-leaf figs cannot be propagated from a single leaf.
When you look at a fiddle-leaf fig tree, it may seem like it consists of just one big leaf, but that’s not the case. The fiddle-leaf fig tree is actually made up of multiple individual leaves, each with its own stem. The main trunk of the tree is just a collection of these stems growing together.
If you were to cut off a leaf from a fiddle-leaf fig tree and put it in water, it will not grow into a new tree. The leaf may stay green for a while, but it won’t develop roots or new growth. This is because the necessary stem and other components for growth, such as the main trunk and roots, are not present in just a detached leaf.
In order to grow a new fiddle-leaf fig tree, you will need to start with a stem cutting. This involves taking a small branch or stem from a healthy fiddle-leaf fig plant, usually measuring around 10 to 12 inches in length.
Once you have your stem cutting, you can either place it directly into a potting soil or start it in water before transferring it to soil. Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to provide consistent care in terms of watering, light, temperature, and fertilizer to ensure the cutting successfully roots and grows into a new plant.
If you’re looking to add more fiddle-leaf fig trees to your indoor plant collection, the best option is to buy new plants from a nursery or online source. Moreover, there are many different varieties and sizes available, making it easy to find the perfect fiddle-leaf fig tree for your home.
Remember that fiddle-leaf fig trees may not be the easiest houseplants to care for. They require bright, indirect light, consistent watering, and well-draining soil. Additionally, they are susceptible to certain pests and diseases, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any problems and take action to address them.
In conclusion, while fiddle-leaf fig leaves may be beautiful to look at, they cannot be used to grow new trees. If you want to grow fiddle-leaf figs, it’s necessary to start with stem cuttings or purchase established plants. By following the proper care instructions and providing a suitable environment, you can ensure your fiddle-leaf fig trees thrive and bring a touch of nature into your home.
2 You can buy a fiddle-leaf fig tree for $1299 from Ikea
If you’re interested in adding a fiddle-leaf fig tree to your collection of houseplants, you’re in luck! You can purchase one from Ikea for $1299. The fiddle-leaf fig tree is a popular and trendy plant, known for its large, attractive leaves and ability to add a touch of elegance to any space.
Fiddle-leaf fig trees can be a bit challenging to care for, but with proper attention and care, they can thrive in your home. One of the main issues you may encounter with these trees is dropping or browning leaves. This is usually a sign that the plant is not receiving enough light or water. To ensure your fiddle-leaf fig tree stays healthy, you’ll need to place it in a brightly lit area and provide it with consistent watering.
Repotting the tree may also be necessary if you notice that its roots are starting to outgrow the current pot. You can do this by carefully removing the tree from its plastic container and transferring it to a larger pot with fresh soil. Be sure not to pull or trim any healthy roots, as this can damage the tree.
In terms of fertilizer, fiddle-leaf fig trees typically do not need a lot of additional nutrients. A high-quality balanced fertilizer used once a month during the growing season should be sufficient. Over-fertilization can lead to yellowing leaves, so it’s important to use the correct amount.
Another issue you may encounter is the growth of tiny brown spots on the leaves. This could be a sign of disease or pest infestation. To address this, you can use a spray solution specifically designed to treat common fiddle-leaf fig tree diseases and pests.
If you want to encourage your fiddle-leaf fig tree to grow bushier and fuller, you can try topping it. This involves cutting off the top branch, which will stimulate new growth in the lower areas of the tree. Just be sure to make a clean cut using sharp and sterile pruning shears.
Moreover, fiddle-leaf fig trees love bright, indirect light. Placing them near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. However, they can also withstand lower light conditions, although their growth may be slower.
One thing to watch out for is bleached or bleached-out leaves. This can happen if the tree is exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to become discolored or burnt. If this happens, simply move the tree to a location with less intense sunlight.
In conclusion, if you’re considering adding a fiddle-leaf fig tree to your houseplant collection, Ikea offers an option for purchase. By following proper care guidelines such as providing adequate light and water, repotting when necessary, and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure your fiddle-leaf fig tree flourishes in your home.
3 A tiny fiddle-leaf fig might suit your lifestyle better than a tree
If you love the gorgeous leaves of a fiddle-leaf fig but your lifestyle or space doesn’t allow for a big tree, a tiny fiddle-leaf fig might be the perfect option for you. It’s a popular choice among plant enthusiasts who want to enjoy the beauty of fiddle-leaf figs but have limited room or prefer a more manageable plant.
Tiny fiddle-leaf figs have all the charm and elegance of their larger counterparts, with their brightly colored and clean leaves. They look great on a table, desk, or any other small space in your home. With their compact size, they are also easier to care for than larger fiddle-leaf fig trees. They require less water, and pests are less likely to become a problem.
Moreover, if you’ve recently tried to grow a fiddle-leaf fig tree and it failed, a tiny fiddle-leaf fig might be the solution. Many people have thought they couldn’t care for a fiddle-leaf fig because of the problems they had with their larger trees. But the truth is, these tiny fiddle-leaf figs are much easier to care for and less likely to suffer from common issues like yellowing or drooping leaves.
Another advantage of tiny fiddle-leaf figs is that you can easily move them around your house. If you like to change the look of your space frequently, these plants are a great option. They can be placed on a table, near a window, by the door, or anywhere else you’d like to add a touch of greenery. You can even place them outdoors during warmer months.
Growing tiny fiddle-leaf figs is a great way to enjoy the beauty of these plants without the commitment of caring for a larger tree. They are not only easier to care for, but they also require less space, making them perfect for small apartments or offices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced plant lover, you can’t go wrong with a tiny fiddle-leaf fig – it’s a dramatic and gorgeous houseplant that is almost guaranteed to bring some life into your space.
If you’re interested in growing your own tiny fiddle-leaf fig, you can start with cuttings from a larger tree or purchase baby figs from a nursery. They are readily available and can be shipped directly to your door. Just make sure to provide them with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients they need to thrive. Even though they are small, they still love bright, indirect light and regular watering. Last but not least, trimming the top of your tiny fiddle-leaf fig will help it grow bushier and prevent it from becoming too spindly.
