The complete Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide

Want to add a fiddle leaf fig to your plant collection? They aren’t the easiest plant, but they aren’t too difficult! Here’s my Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide.

One of the most photogenic houseplants is the fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata). There’s a reason that these plants have been on trend so hard for so long.

Their large green leaves are shiny and gorgeous. They grow very tall and can dramatically fill the corner of a room.

But, these are not the easiest plants to keep happy. They are a bit finicky and have specific wants and needs.

This fiddle leaf fig tree care guide will help to make sure that you are making your plants are as happy as possible!

Are fiddle leaf fig plants toxic?

Fiddle leaf fig plants can be toxic if ingested. Definitely keep them away from pets and kids. The sap can also cause skin irritation.

Can you keep fiddle leaf fig plants outdoors?

You can definitely keep fiddle leaf fig plants outdoors, but make sure they are out of direct sunlight. Their leaves will burn in direct sun! They love being on a covered porch in the summer. Bring them indoors when the temperature drops below 50 degrees.

Where should I put a fiddle leaf fig in my house?

Fiddle leaf figs light to be in a window that gets bright, indirect morning light. It’s super important to find the right window for them. Once they are happy, don’t move them except to rotate the pot!

How to clean fiddle leaf fig leaves

All house plants like to have clean leaves, but the Fiddle Leaf Fig’s leaves get especially dusty. Clean them periodically so the plants can best absorb light through their leaves!

How to wind train fiddle leaf figs

As tropical plants in the wild, fiddle leaf figs would be blown in the wind frequently. Indoor plants don’t get that same wind. This can lead to thin branches that can bend and bow. To strengthen the stems, periodically shake your tree by the stem to simulate wind!

Why are my fiddle leaf fig leaves turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves mean that your plant is not getting enough nutrients. This usually means not enough light! If the leaves are limp and yellow, it could be overwatered.

Why is my fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves?

Dropped leaves mean the plant is conserving resources. If it’s lower, older leaves, that usually means that it is not getting enough light!

Why are my fiddle leaf fig leaves brown and crispy?

Brown and crispy leaves often mean sunburn. If it’s in direct sunlight, move it! I moved a FLF onto my patio and it immediately got sun burned. Lesson learned!

If your plant is getting yellow spots and brown tips on the leaves, this could be a sign of over watering. Make sure that your pot has plenty of drainage holes to avoid this.

How to care for Fiddle Leaf Figs

Fiddle leaf fig lighting requirements

The best light for a fiddle leaf fig is bright indirect light. This means a sunny window. They really love morning light! If your window gets too much direct light, you can add a sheer curtain panel.

Aim for an east or west facing window. Southern facing windows usually get too much light and northern windows not enough!

Fiddle leaf fig watering schedule

The fiddle leaf plant likes to stay fairly moist. If the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch, it’s time to water it. Look for a pot with drainage holes to avoid water puddling, which can lead to root rot.

How often should you water a fiddle leaf fig?

Most fiddle leaf figs can be watered heavily once per week. However, check your soil to be sure – if it is drying out quicker, water more often. A thorough watering means water until you see water coming out of the drainage holes.

you can also look at the leaves. If they look limp, they need water. If they are sticking out to each side, they probably are OK!

Should I mist my fiddle leaf fig?

Fiddle leaf figs love humidity! Mist the leaves about once a week to keep them happy, especially in the drier winter months.

Fiddle leaf fig pot + soil requirements

Fiddle leaf fig plants do fine in regular potting mix soil.

You should repot your fiddle leaf fig every 18-24 months in a pot 1 to 2 inches larger to promote growth.

Do fiddle leaf figs like to be root bound?

Yes, Fiddle Leaf fig plants actually do fine root bound. They won’t grow as much, but if you are happy with their size, it’s OK to leave them in a smaller pot.

How to make a fiddle leaf fig branch

One thing that can be annoying about a fiddle leaf fig is that they can get long and leggy. To encourage branches, simply cut off the new growth or take any sort of cutting. It is likely to fork at the spot you cut it and grow 2 or more new branches.

You can also notch your plant by cutting 1/3 of the way into the stem anywhere along it. I have had mixed success with this method.

Fiddle Leaf Fig propagation

You can easily propagate Fiddle leaf figs from stem cuttings. They can be propagated in water or soil.

You can read my complete guide to fiddle leaf fig propagation here.

Any more questions about fiddle leaf fig plant care?!

Want to show your houseplants some love?!
–> How to clean plant leaves
–> How to propagate a plant (free eBook!)
–> When to repot a plant
–> Rotating houseplants
–> When to cut leaves off of plants