TREE ENVY & A BOTANICAL MIRACLE
I had fiddle leaf fig tree envy for years. Every gorgeous interior shot in Domino and all the legit designers have fiddle leaf figs. They just scream, “Oh yeah. This room is so awesome that a giant plant just lives here 24/7.”
I wanted one. In the worst way.
I was pained by my inability to grow even a measly herb. All those majestic fiddle leafs in the pictures just mocked me. Fast forward a few years and miracle of all miracles, I’ve somehow kept mine alive almost almost two years.
I get emails all the time about Newton…my fiddle leaf fig tree. If you’ve been hanging around this blog for any amount of time, you’ve heard about my serial plant killing ways. I don’t just have a “black thumb”, my whole stinking arm might as well be deadly.
I love plants. But they rarely love me back.
When I brought Newton home, I vowed to keep him alive. Come hell or high water. The typical plant care tips weren’t gonna’ cut it. I needed to do more.
I had to woo my fiddle leaf fig tree.
THE DAY I BROUGHT HIM HOME
We have a little something my husband jokingly refers to as the “ceramic graveyard”. It’s a spot behind our tool shed where all my empty pots are stacked, plantless and unfulfilled. Here was the scene when I tried to casually sneak in a 3 foot tree into the house without him noticing…
ME: Oh hey, did you eat lunch yet?
(Nonchalantly trying to change the subject before the conversation ever started.)
(Almost chokes on coffee as he sees the tree.)
STU: Really?? Well, that’s optimistic of you.
ME: I can handle this!! Apparently the larger the plant, the harder it is to kill. (Lie.)
ME: Plus it was totally on sale, and I couldn’t pass up a good deal. (Another lie.)
ME: Doesn’t he look gorgeous in the living room?!?
STU: Sure…This week he does.
(Hums the funeral march)
(Gives inappropriate hand gesture and then whispers to the plant…)
ME: Don’t listen to him. You have your whole life ahead of you.
TIPS + SUPERSTITION
So here’s the deal…There are some “tried and true” fiddle leaf fig tree care tips that you can find anywhere online. I researched and followed most of them and will lay those out for you today.
However just “following the rules” has not served me well in my past plant endeavors. For Newton’s care plan, I added several unorthodox things that I routinely do. Here’s my take on how to keep a fiddle leaf fig alive and happy…
HOW TO KEEP YOUR FIDDLE LEAF FIG TREE ALIVE
1. Choose the Right Planter.
-The lovely lady at the nursery informed me that buying too large of a pot can be a deathtrap for a fiddle leaf fig. For a small plant, go with 8″-10″ diameter. For larger plants, 12″-14″ is the max size you’ll want to use.
-Make sure that there are drainage holes in the bottom on your pot. (I placed a few rocks beneath the soil and and also used a pot with holes. A clear plastic liner sits between the planter and my floor.)
2. Pick the Placement Carefully.
Fiddle leaf figs like sunlight, but too much harsh sunlight can be a problem. Place in a sunny area where they receive at least 4 hours of sunlight a day, but avoid direct sunlight. I placed mine in a corner that receives lots of light, but I have drapes that filter the sunlight’s effect.
3. Rarely Move but Often Rotate.
-These guys are homebodies. They don’t want to go galavanting all over the place, or they tend to act out. You might want to let it get some outdoor air a couple times during the year, just not in a windy season. Pick a place in your home that he’ll be able to stay put.
-Fiddle leaf figs trees grow toward the light, so you’ll want to rotate the planter every few weeks. (I did NOT do such a great job of this, so Newton is a tad heavy on one side. I can relate…)
4. Tend to the Leaves.
-You’ll want to lightly dust the leaves as needed. Even a thin layer of dust can block sunlight from absorbing and stunt the tree’s growth.
-Water the leaves by misting with a spray bottle after dusting.
5. Wait to Water.
-This is probably the most important tip…Do not overwater. The suggested method is to wait until the top inch of soil is dry but you can still feel moisture an inch deep. Factors like where you live, pot size, humidity can all affect how often this is. (See my REAL indicator to water below.)
*WATCH: Leaves dropping mean either over or under watering. Brown leaves at the bottom area sign of over watering. Brown leaves at the top could mean under watering.
6. Give Your Tree His Vitamins.
I heard from a couple readers that Superthrive Plant Vitamin Solution
was a miracle worker for their sick FLF, so I tried it out myself. Add a cap of it to some water and pour it right into the soil if you notice your leaves limp or sickly. You can even add this to the soil during growing season to help boost new leaves. (Just read the glowing Amazon reviews by botanists and you’ll be sold like I was.)
MY VERY UNOFFICIAL TIPS FOR KEEPING FIDDLE LEAF FIGS HAPPY
In addition to the “real rules”, here are my superstitious habits that have served my FLF well…
1. Name your tree.
He needs to feel like one of the family. Plus, if you name him it’s likely you’ll remember to take care of him more like a pet and less like a houseplant.
2. Serenade the tree daily.
Sometimes I’m belting the Beatles, and other times Ellie Goudling is blasting on Pandora. Newton seems to like both. Equally.
3. Fiercely guard against plant terrorists. (AKA: toddlers)
Newton and the surrounding area is completely off limits to my daughter. Ceramic vases and white chairs? Go for it. Come near the plant, and I will take your tiny hiny down.
4. Water as a last resort.
I wait until the top leaves start dropping just the teensiest bit before giving any water. I am an over-waterer by nature, so this ensures that I don’t overdo it. This trick has worked well for me and my guy, but it is a tad risky. (*It ends up being about a once a week watering for the climate we live in and the size of my tree.)
Who knows what’s really kept him alive for nearly 2 years (Sheer luck? A miracle?) but I’m not taking any chances.
I will continue to do all of the above. For as long as we both shall live.
*The small brown portion that looks like a dying bud is actually normal. All new leaves look like this in the beginning.
TROPICAL PLANTS IN COLD CLIMATES?
Because these are tropical plants a lot of people think that you have to live in a sunny state to have one. Well, I happen to live in the tundra of Missouri, and I still have a thriving plant. Creating the right conditions inside is the key. We use a humidifier in the coldest months for my daughter, but I’m sure Newton appreciates it as well.
So yes, Midwesterners…you too can have a fiddle leaf fig.
PLANT FEAR
Scared to strike out for the 1,000th time with a plant, much less a gorgeous fiddle leaf tree? I’m telling you, it’s worth the risk to try. Buy one from IKEA or your local nursery and just go for it! Newton and I are rootin’ for ya.
PS: Check out my FREE guide below with 11 of my favorite houseplants even YOU can grow:)
*affiliate link used in this post.
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Omgosh… 🙂 so enjoyed the post! I recently purchased a few plants….small steps and all that jazz but you have inspired me, I may just branch out to a larger guy…(pardon the pun) 🙂
Do it!!! If you strike out it’s just more practice, right? All the best with your new little guys. May they grow & prosper:)
I over watered my plant based upon poor info from my nursery…I am so afraid it will die…is there anything I should do or can do to counter the error?
Look for signs of root rot there are several videos on youtube for how to care for FLF and how to help if things go wrong and it becomes sick. I’d take a look at that. Good luck
love the unofficial rules! mine is not doing great- i have had it over a year and it’s certainly doing ok, but not thriving. can’t wait for warm weather …. i think it’s just cold in all the corners of our home.
Give him a fiddle leaf fig “spa weekend” (AKA: a space heater & a humidifier). Maybe that will give him a boost through the final cold days of winter!
This made me laugh……because I can totally relate! I just had a bad experience with Paper Whites and killed a lovely succulent garden last year!! I have banned myself from future plants of any kind for at least a year!!
I’m a succulent killer too! Everyone says they’re impossible to kill…Well, I guess we proved them wrong. Lol.
I think all those people who say succulents are hard to kill are from the south. I’m from Canada and only a select few will survive (indoors) through our winters, I think we just don’t get enough light. I’ve had way better luck with the tropical leafy types.
Now I have some that last through the winter, but with very little water, and I had to buy a special light for them.
Good point, Lauren…It totally depends on the climate where you live. I’ve read about using lights during the winter but haven’t tried it yet.
Oh thank you I need these tips! I literally just got up and ran to look at my FLF to make sure he’s still hanging on. This is the longest I’ve ever had one and I will cry if I kill it! Newton…he he!
Sing to him, friend. Don’t forget that one.
Haha, love your unofficial rules and your tree is absolutely gorgeous! I have a tiny one and against all odds was able to keep it alive
Nice! Here’s to hoping for a growth spurt this spring for your guy!
Please send plant prayers and wishes my way! My beautiful little FLF now looks puny with only 4 leaves left. I don’t over water (at least I don’t think I do) I give it two glasses full every two weeks and usually place it in the bathtub for a couple of hours so that it can completely drain. Maybe its getting too much light….it is across from 3 full size windows.
Robin @ http://www.designbyrobinsnest.blogspot.com
Hi, Robin! Do your windows have any kind of treatment filtering the light? Maybe move it further back in the room, and see how it does. Outside air gusts might be a factor too. Is it near an exterior door that is used often? My guy is in our formal living room, where the front door only gets opened to check the mail briefly. Fingers crossed and plant prayers said. Good luck!
We just celebrated “Jewel’s” 2nd anniversary in our home and I completely agree with talking to and catering to your fig tree! And not watering for weeks at a time is working for me and Jewel too!!! 😉
Yes, yes, yes! Maybe we should set Newton and Jewel up on a virtual plant date. I’m sure they’d perk up with the thought of long-distance love, right? I mean that’s not totally taking it too far or anything…
I love your unofficial tips too!! your tree is beautiful. I ended up getting a fake one because it was almost the same price as the real one and figured it was guaranteed to last forever. I really love it.
Hi, Albertina! Since posting, several people have emailed me and told me they love their faux FLF. Glad to know that if (God forbid) Newton takes a turn for the worse that there’s a suitable option out there:)
Great post! I’ve had my huge FLF for about 7 months now and Fiona is still doing pretty well. She gets watered once a week but I need to do a better job with dusting and rotating. Several of the leaves have small brown dried-up sections… I’m not sure what that is all about? Looking forward to longer days and warmer weather ahead!!
Sarah, occasionally my leaves have those too. If a leaf gets more than just a couple brown spots, I go ahead and remove it. As hards as that is to do;/ (Not really sure what that means either.) May Fiona live a long and prosperous life!!!
The brown spots are most likely spots from scales or mealy bugs (crawling bugs that attach under the leaf and suck the sap out)…I believe the real secret to a happy FLF is the humidity level: if the air gets too dry the plant isn’t as healthy; which makes it vulnerable to pests; and it’s all down-hill from there. Keep your plant reasonably warm and misted with water (or ideally use a humidifier)…
P.s. You can try different treatments for the scales (removing by hand, soap spray, kitchen oil and alcohol or diluted alcohol) but the most important thing is humid environment: It helps the plant be healthy so it isn’t vulnerable to pests.
Thanks for your plant wisdom, Tiffany! We use a humidifier during winter, which I think has helped keep ours bug-free. I’m glad to hear about removing the scales. Thanks so much for weighing in! (I’m going to repost your comment to Stephanie, so she can get your tips:)
I’m still mourning the loss of my fig…. who I’m pretty sure my cat peed on and initiated the quick death spiral I so painfully watched over the next few days.
But, this post has given me new hope to try again.
Thank you!
Oh no! I guess we should add cats to the list of plant terrorists…
lol……loved this post ! I am just like you with plants……………tried it all and now feel like I’m ready for the fiddle fig tree. Thanks for sharing Heather……….hugs.
Best of luck, Lynda!! Here’s to another “black thumb” having a fiddle leaf fig miracle!
I”ve had my FLF for a year now, and it’s done well even through the winter. I’ve even started a new plant with just a leaf I broke off. At first I followed all that I read about not over-watering but new leaves showed reddish spots. I started watering twice/week (2 C water on Thurs am, and a handful of ice cubes on Sun nights) and it just took off. New set of leaves every two weeks until Fall. I’ve just now used some fertilizer (works for 6 mos) for the first time, so fingers crossed this spring.
I’ve heard about the about the ice cube trick for other plants. Good to know it works for a FLF. I haven’t used fertilizer yet because I’m still so worried I’ll jinx things. Good luck with yours and thanks for the great tips!
I used time-released granules (once/yr in March) and used very, very little of the recommended amount. New leaves on both planst–So far, so good.
Oh, I just love this post so much! You’ve inspired me to have a few green plants inside!
you are too funny! loved this post. i’ve started finally seeing these fig trees at reasonable rates at my local nursery…they used to be so expensive i never even considered them…but maybe i’m ready to try my hand at it. love, love your tips!
Go for it, Emily! I’m guessing with how popular they’ve become, nurseries are catching on. Perhaps the fact that they are stocking up has helped prices drop. Good for us…especially if we need to buy replacements eventually. Kidding!
I have a huge fiddle Leaf that I have had for 5 years. I water it weekly even in the winter. It has never lost a leaf. Fig trees like regular watering.
Wow, five years!!! That’s awesome. I end up watering mine about every week or so in the winter too. I just found that at some points in the year, every week was too often for it. I hope my FLF can live as long as yours!
LOVE this – especially the unorthodox rules! I have kept mine alive for a year! My fiddle leaf, which I will now name as Frank did not like our move last summer. So he is now closer to a window. He ha some brown spots along the edges and did lose about 4 leaves over the winter but is still hanging in. I think I was watering him too much. Living on the West Coast, humidity is not an issue. Fingers crossed he will grow more leaves! Just discovered your blog via Emily Clark – LOVE It. I sent my sister a link to your Old House woes….she has an old house too and they are cursing it!
Thanks so much!! I hear that FLF trees stop go dormant around September, so this summer should be when you see new growth. Another reader suggested a fertilizer that she used. I’m planning to snag some this month and give it a go. Hoping to see some new leaves in the next few months too. Thanks so much for stopping by and saying “hello”. (Isn’t Emily the best?) Oh yes…hopefully your sister will feel some solidarity in the comment section of that post. Lots of us have been through it!
Great post! I didn’t realise it was required to serenade a tree I have to say, but you learn something new everyday!
Hah! Yes, it helps I think.
Love this post! I’ve been wanting a fiddle leaf tree for some time, but like you, feel bad bringing one home to a slow and inevitable death. Thanks to your hints I think I may just be able to keep him alive! Love your blog. Thank you so much for the inspiration!
You can do it Erin! (And if you can’t, oh well. Buy another one and pretend nothing happened;)
i water my 6 foot tall fiddle leaf fig (named Fiddle Faddle) once a week, exactly 3 and a half cups very slowly. Haven’t lost any leaves yet so will stick to this schedule. Does anyone know what causes the little indentions, or craters, in some of the leaves?
I am having Fiddle Leaf Fig envy too and can not find one. Any tips? I live in Oklahoma, is there an online shop or a chain store that I can find one at? On my to-do list is to call local nurseries, and then I saw this post. I’m also new to Oklahoma with a toddler so stopping into nurseries hasn’t been an easy option.
PS I’m loving your new site, I just came across you through Hey Thuy Instagram.
Hi Jacque! Well, I got mine from a local nursery (they usually have the best selection. Online might be a last resort, but shipping would be high and I’d want to see my FLF in person.) BUT I’ve had several readers email me and tell me that Lowe’s in now carrying them. Check your city first, but they might even be able to get one sent to your local store from another location (?). Oh, and I TOTALLY relate to every errand feeling like a marathon when you have a toddler in tow. Hah! Thanks for following along and look forward to chatting with you more:)
I got mine at Home Depot.
I just got mine from Williams-Sonoma ! 🙂 I ordered it online and it shipped from FL. Came in beautifully! Looking for the right spot in our house for it 🙂
HI Heather, you’ve given me great inspiration to pursue my dream of having a FLF in our home. We unfortunately have duct work in the ceiling for air conditioning and heat. I live in eastern Washington and the winters get cold and the summers are very hot. As I am in an apartment the rooms are small, so do you have any ideas about the blowing of cold or hot air in and around my new friend I want to get? Also something happened when I bought my zee zee plant from a chain store with beautiful plants…..bug, gnats…don’t know their real name, but when I brought my plant home and a week or so later put him into his new plant apartment ( a pot), there were bugs,flies everywhere. I’m not one to give up until the death certificate has officially been handed to me, so I checked FB, Pintrest, friends…every day looking at a solution to this devastating problem. I didn’t want them to infect my only other zee zee plant and my aloe. It took months, but nothing published worked, so I heard that if you let the plant dry out for at least two weeks in the “dry ” stage, the larve will die. Your plant looks like heck, but you know it worked! I couldn’t believe it. Hope this helps, and I’m going to make a trip to Lowes in a few weeks. Cheers!
Hi, Donna! I have heard of those crazy bugs attacking large plants. From what I remember, you can even get them form a neighbor near by. (Apparently they find their way over.) Glad to hear you got rid of them! I say spring for a FLF. If he works, you’ll have a true plant pal that brings such a nice presence to a room.
Hello, i am on my second fiddle leaf plant.. first one i bought online from home depot the leaves started to get brown. i had just watered it. perhaps it was used from underwater as roots where exposed at the top..needless to say it eventually died.. i found another one at a local grocery store couldn’t believe my luck. it has started to get cold here on the east coast. i live in an apartment which means i have no control; over the heat. i tried to turn it down but its still hot. i purchased a humidifier to help the air from being so dry. i notice one of the leaf have a brown spot. i did relent as the roots where coming out of the bottom of the pot. so this is only my second watering.. i did make sure the top soil was dry but slightly damp below.. the temperature did drop outside to the 40’s at night. windows where closed and heat came on in the early morning
do you think the cold air is the cause.. Help! don’t want to loose this plant.. i generally have good luck with plants. such as ficus and orchids.. please let me know what might be the issue..
That’s such a bummer, Sherron! I honestly am NOT an expert. The only thing I can suggest is to check the drainage in your pot. If you don’t have good drainage, you can get root rot. I hope that helps and fingers crossed for you FLF!
What is the stalk or base or whatever you want to call it look like? Mine is brown at the bottom but greenish at the top and I can’t tell if it’s dying or its supposed to look like that or what its doing!
HI Heather
My leaves have browned a bit on the edges of the bottom 3-4 leaves, should I trim the brown off? What does that mean? Just as Erika says the top leaves of mine look great bright green and healthy, just not sure what the brown lower leaves browning means. HELP!
Eeeek! Not sure what the problems is for sure, but I’ve heard that if the old (bottom) leaves tun brown this can be a sign of overwatering. I would not trim, but rather wait. Back off on the watering. I would not trim the brown areas. I do however remove a leaf that has turned completely brown or yellow. (Happened a few times over the last few years.) Hope that helps!!
Hi Stephanie! Another reader had some great tips for your FLF that might help, and I wanted to be sure you saw this…Tiffany says, ” The brown spots are most likely spots from scales or mealy bugs (crawling bugs that attach under the leaf and suck the sap out)…I believe the real secret to a happy FLF is the humidity level: if the air gets too dry the plant isn’t as healthy; which makes it vulnerable to pests; and it’s all down-hill from there. Keep your plant reasonably warm and misted with water (or ideally use a humidifier)…
P.s. You can try different treatments for the scales (removing by hand, soap spray, kitchen oil and alcohol or diluted alcohol) but the most important thing is humid environment: It helps the plant be healthy so it isn’t vulnerable to pests.”
My fiddle fig just started sprouting an abundance of new leaves. It’s January?! 4 on on one trunk and 3 on the other. She did nothing last summer. Moved Tootie inside for the winter and crazy town new leafs everywhere. My confusion is why all the new Leaves in the winter?
What?!? That’s amazing, Brig. Mine hasn’t gotten anything new since fall. I have NO idea why this would be happening, except maybe the environment is more humid or better light-apparently she’s liking her new spot! Haha
Great post! I just bought a lovely 10 foot fiddle leaf off Craigslist, and am praying to the green gods I don’t kill it. The corner I have it in gets light, but not sure it is enough. Also not sure how much to water it, since the person I bought it from had someone else water it and does not know how much it was getting and how often. Also, anyone have experience or tips with using a growing light for a fiddle leaf fig? I have a light in our ceiling that I could possibly replace with a growing light.
Wow! I’ll bet it’s gorgeous, Tiffany! Best of luck with your new addition. On “Newton”, who is about 6 feet, I use a full pitcher of water, around a gallon, every 7 -10 days. BUT it totally depends on your humidity level where you live. Yours could need more or less than this. Hope that helps!! xo
I have a green thumb, when I want too. But for some reason me and FIF trees don’t get along. I think I will give it one more try. I really liked your style and tenacity for never giving up, lol. Since my husband passed I am determined to have plants all over my house. I will post pics for you too see. Have a great day
Thanks, Darcy! (I thought I emailed you a while back responding to this, but now I’m not seeing it!) Best of luck. I love plants and they definitely can bring comfort in our homes. All my best to you and thanks for saying hello:)
This article has helped so so much! I have one quick question you mentioned above that a small plant, should be in planter about 8″-10″ diameter, and a larger plant would be 12″-14″.
What would you constitute as a small plant and a large plant? Thanks!!
Hi Kelsey! I’d say a small plant is 2-3 feet, and anything larger go ahead and use in the larger planter. Hope this helps! xoxo
Oh man. I just bought my first beautiful fig tree and am so afraid I’ll kill it, especially since I’ve never spent so much on a single plant in my life. I’m so glad to know someone else in the Missouri tundra has had success!
You can do it, Amanda! Just keep him warm and hydrated. (Sorry for the late reply.) XO
Omg! I’m just purchasing my FLF as well. How is your FLF doing being it’s been almost 5 months now?? I spent a nice penny on mines as well and don’t want it to die either! I’m so nervous that I’ll mess up and my $150 (it’s 8ft) will be a huge waste down the drain!
It’s alive and thriving! I decided to try watering it on the same day each week, just two cups for now. (You should do more, if yours is that big!) I dust and rotate it then, too. It has done well. New leaves keep popping up and hardly and brown spots. 🙂
SO gorgeous!! I have citrus trees & Chicago Hardy fig trees inside in Massachusetts during the winter and outside all summer. I have a gardening group if you or others need help or tips. I’ve collected experts from all over the globe in my group. Just search Gardening Indoors, Outdoors, or on the Roof on FB or Fbdotcom/groups/gardeninggeekery Now on to looking for a fiddle ear fig tree… man is that magnificent. Those leaves are gorg!
Ok I have 3 of these babies at home. I went fiddle leaf fig crazy when I found fairly big ones for $25 each! My daughter keeps attacking one (she’s a curious 18 month old) and another came with some leaves that had a few brown spots. I thought I could nurse it back to health. It’s no worse no better so far. And my 3rd one got mealy bugs which I sprayed with a mild dish soap solution (I read that was ok?). They appeared on new growth and now the new leaves have lots of brown spots and the rest of the leaves aren’t doing so well. I have a bad feeling I’m going to kill all of them!:(
Question: my FLF is just over a year old and grows so much now it’s starting to hit the ceiling… What shall I do? I’m afraid to cut it!
Lesley, what did u decide to do? Did u cut it? I bet it’s BEAUTIFUL!!! How do u take care of it for it to grow so big??
My new fig friend has sprouted 5 new leaves since I got him at the end of March. I planted him in a planter just a bit larger than his root ball and I put 3 inches of rock at the bottom of the pot. There are no drain holes and I love the pot and would prefer not to repot anytime soon. My question is I feel like he is sucking up water the past week or so at a remarkable pace and I am nervous that I am over watering since there are no drain holes. I am waiting until the top inch is dry. I watered it (probably 1 1/2 cups water) 2 days ago and today the top inch is dry but moist under, and the top 3 leafs are wilting and feel thinner than the rest of the leaves. Do you think it is possible for it to need to be watered twice a week during the summer or do you think I am possibly over watering and going to have to repot with a pot with drainage holes?
Well, I’m no expert but just had to learn by trial and error with my FLF. If the top leaves don’t have brown spots, then you probably aren’t over watering. If you’re in a dry climate, he might need that water. Are you misting your leaves every so often? Also, did you add a fertilizer to the soil? (I need to update my blog post, as those are things I have done as well.)
Maybe wait until the top two inches of soil are dry since your pot does not have drainage. It might be that your tree needs more water at certain times depending on the humidity. I’d wait as long as possible before repotting…FLFs are so finicky and even that kind of change can be a lot for them.
Hope that helps and good luck!
Did you just trim the bottom leaves to help it stay more full on top? I like this look vs. the bushier look but don’t want to take the clippers to mine until I know the correct method 🙂
Actually it came like this (only much smaller). I’m not sure how they did it! I think the only time to really prune is in the summer, but I’m not an expert on this. I would consult a local nursery, as they should be able to look at pics of your tree and provide specific advice. Good luck:)
Aaron I just bought my FLF yesterday at a local Nursery here in Charlotte,NC. They had two kinds. The ones that the leaves are at the top of the plant and the bushy ones. Mine is the one with the leaves at the top. I’m loving this information I’m getting on this site.
My question was “what does the reddish/rusty spots all over the NEW leaves coming out?
Honestly, I am not sure but this forum discusses the problem:
http://forums.gardenweb.com/discussions/2104670/new-leaves-on-fiddleleaf-fig-has-clusters-of-small-red-dots
My question was what does the reddish/rusty spots indicate all over the NEW leaves?
I recently bought my first fiddle leaf fig. After having seen them in magazine layouts over and over, I was intrigued. It was hard to find! I found a puny runty looking one I got half price due to a store pricing error, and have loved it ever since. It has rebounded and quickly added leaves, liking its bright spot in the living room. I have kept it in its original container and will replant once it appears to have slower growth. Thanks for the vitamin link; it’s on my “to buy” list. I’ll ask my grandson to officially name it for me, too.
Nice job, Debbi! You’re obviously a “plant whisperer”. Good luck with your FLF:)
Do you put anything on the leaves to make them look shiny? I just bought one from Home Depot and the leaves have white “shower scum” like droplets on them. Can I put anything on it to get them pretty and healthy looking?
Hi Megan! I actually just use a spray bottle with water, spritz the leaves and then towel dry them off with paper towels. Then once the “gunk” is off, you can spritz them again to keep the leaves healthy. Good luck!
Newton is just beautiful. 😊 I have been lusting after a fiddle leaf fig for a while and our lovely friends bought us one as a thank you for having them stay this last weekend. I’m a serial herb killer too but I am determined to see this lovely creature thrive! Thank you for your tips – especially the one about how it’s normal for new leaf buds to look brown! Now to find the perfect name. 😉
How often would you say you water your fiddle leaf fig; Once a week? Once every two weeks? I’ve read about the 1 inch rule, but each time I do that it just makes my toddler and my cats a little too curious about the plant. Thanks!
HELP!!! My poor plant isn’t doing so hot. I just came across your post and we are plant sisters. (I too have a black thumb and a ceramic pot grave behind the shed as well) Alfred could us all the good vibes he can get. I will be trying all of your tips and getting the vitamins you spoke about. Figures crossed, Alfred is going to out live me!
I will pray for Alfred &Gracie Grace. Now. Plants should not be this complicated.
I love this, especially the unofficial tips haha – I think you are on to something! Mine started suffering and dropping leaves at a frightening rate, and I freaked out but then decided to start encouraging it and singing it songs (my hubs thinks I’m totally insane), but it perked up and even grew a new leaf the next week!! Now it’s stable, but not really growing, so I’m going to try out your tips 🙂 Thanks!
Love your post! Just bought 7 ft FLF. It arrived in beautiful condition about 2 weeks ago. Today, the bottom leaves are stiff and “crispy” with brown spots of varying sizes. From reading the coversations above, it sounds like overwatering, but somehow I just don’t think so– and I think lighting is good. Just learning about naming, seranades, etc so will work on those :). Do you think it might just might be an adjustment problem? Really appreciate any suggestions.
Okay, im on my second FLF. My first beauty i bought. Place it in my home and did much of nothing. I changed it’s location every year twice,due to sun’s location in house. I had it for about 3 years didn’t do much of anything I would occasionally lose leaves(during winter) only to loose all last year. Once I Google tips for this fig tree I noticed I may have over watered it and house was too cold hence why it never did much of nothing. I bought a new Beauty 2 weeks ago it has a lot of little leaves. It’s already dropping leaves at first the tips were Brown at the end I watered then I noticed now leaves are dropping with brown @ top of leaf. Ugh send me prayers, her name is Grace!!! Thank god i can afford to lose a few leaves. i will water again tonight.
I started my new job in February and around March, the leaves of my boss’s 7 foot FLF started falling off. Well, he didn’t ask me to care for the plant until that started happening which meant no one probably watered if for three months! Sadly, I’m not known for keeping plants alive and thriving so I, naturally, got nervous and afraid that I would kill the CEO’s only plant. So I started watering it, checking in on it daily, rotating it, and low and behold, today it’s not only alive but totally thriving! It’s thriving so much that he asked me to get two more for his office to block all the glare of the sun coming in (we’re in Los Angeles). I just had the two new guys delivered today. Needless to say, his office looks like a forest now, but I’m excited to hopefully care for these two as I did the original. Wish me luck and let’s hope they all get along with each other as they’re lined up in a row! Thank you for your great tips!
Nice! Hey the more greenery the better in an office, right? LA is the perfect climate for FLFs. Sending happy tree vibes for all THREE of your beauties:)
Hi Heather, I love plants… I found a large fig tree in the trash, so I came across your article while I was looking for tips on how to take care of the fig tree. I had one long time and it died. Scared this large fig tree will die. But I will follow all of your tips wish me luck
Nice! Sending “good tree vibes” your way, Olga.
Love your post. Just got my own little one. I haven’t named him yet, may call him Phil. My question is whether Phil will survive if he’s close to an air conditioner. It’s about 3 ‘erred away from him, but in summer we tend to switch it on for a few hours a day. Really want him to thrive so worried that if I put him in harms way he’ll retaliate. HELP!
Hi! Well, I’ll be honest “Phil” might do ok but I would move him farther if ANY way possible. These FLF guys really do like warmer, humid environments. In colder months when the AC if off, obviously you’re fine. But maybe if you know you’ll be running the AC for several hours try to scoot him further away. Also, if you live in a dry climate, you might try using a mister every few days on his leaves. Sending happy tree vibes your way;)
I had a beautiful fiddle leaf for over 10 years. It grew so well I had to cut it back several times and it kept growing. I went south for the winter and left my plant at my sister inlays. It must have been heart broken to move to her house. It was gone when I got back. #1 don’t move it from your house.#2 I think she didn’t water it enough and #3 the room may have been to hot (she is old and likes the house warmer than ours. #4 change in filtered light. #5They are a part of the family and I believe it liked standing behind my husbands chair in the family room and felt lonely at her house.
Hi Heather, just curious…I bought the superthrive vitamins you mentioned for my trees, is there any special way you dilute it for use?. I’ve only had them for about a month now and I really want them to survive. Thank you 😊
Hello Heather, I bought a FLF and all the leaves turned brown/crunchy on the edges and fell off – really tall about 6 Feet. I refuse to have a funeral for Leafy. Your plant care tips are very simple and I’m going to continue to nurture Leafy back to health and beauty. The limbs/stems are still green but hasn’t produced any buds yet but I’m hopeful; he’s in a really good spot receiving adequate sunlight and water. And I’m going to rotate him when I get home this evening. Also, I just gave him the name “Leafy” which I think is be-fitting because of the beautiful big leaves.
He’s gorgeous! Not a brown spot to be seen! Great job and thanks for the tips. I’m a new FLF mama and determined to keep him alive <3
Here is a fiddle leaf fig plant growth photo story:
https://greengrowblog.wordpress.com/
Hi! Thanks for the pointers. I just got mine and it’s still little. I’m not sure how much water I should give it. Is there a specific measurement you use or a guideline? Thanks!
I just got my first FLF last week(Figgy) he seems to be loving his new home. I have a pretty green thumb but I’m still nervous because of all the horror stories of how hard they are to grow and how expensive they are. For some ppl killing an 80$ tree wouldn’t be a huge deal but I would be pretty sad. I decided to go for it last week and looked everywhere for one and finally found a place that has them. I love him so much and he really adds something I can’t exactly put my finger on, to my house so I decided to get him a few friends. I will go pick them up tomorrow.
I really enjoyed this blog and love that I’m not the only one who has named theirs and the reason for doing so is spot on. He needs to be a part of the family not another houseplant to forget.
I was gifted a large multi stalked fiddle leaf by a friend moving out of state. It thrived in the corner of my bedroom with just water every other week or so….growing to over 8 feet tall, for 27 years! This spring I decided to repot it and and used a potting soil that holds moisture more than the usual soil. Big mistake! It dropped over 50% of it’s leaves and I thought for sure it was a goner. Slowly I have pruned a few wily branches and it appears to have stopped dropping leaves and I do see new growth starting to appear. It will be years before it returns to its previous healthy splendor but I have learned my lesson….less is more with this plant.
Oh no! Hopefully it can recuperate. At least he survived…I’ve heard these can be very tricky with changing conditions.
I really enjoyed reading your story because I can relate. We move every 3 years (military family) and only in our first house I was able to keep 12 amazing plants (thanks to my friend who gifted them when she moved & my mom who used to come and change the soil). Then I moved too far for my mom to come by, that’s when I confirmed I was a plant killer. My aunt came to visit us when we lived in Hawaii & said it was a sin that I did not have plants in my house & since I should have inherited the family’s green thumb. She gave me a Veronica proof tropical plant. I don’t know the name but this thing was little and it grew in 2 years. Most of my guest thought it was plastic because it looked like I had oiled & cleaned the leaves (they would pierce the leaves). I had to put a sign that said it was real & stop piercing the leaves. We moved to the Midwest & couldn’t find my beautiful plant. I have seen this fiddle leaf fig tree in magazines and wish I could have one. We are moving to Miami this summer and hope to find my plant & venture with other plants. Thank you for sharing 🙂
Hahaha! That’s pretty funny about the sign. Obviously a good “imposter of imposter” plants:) Best of luck with your upcoming move. Hopefully that tropical climate will be conducive to lots of leafy greens!
Hey Heather,
I have 2 36″ fiddle plants (Figgy and Janice). I have had them for about 1 year now. I have noticed they get dried out brown spots and edges on some leaves. I have occasionally had some leaves completely dry out. I am watering them every 2 weeks…some time 2.5 if the dirt is still damp an inch lower. They do get pretty intense light in the evening, as they are near a west facing window. Could the leaves be drying out from light/lack of water? Do I have a bug or root rot? The leaves look pretty healthy, despite the spots. Are there specific songs that you could suggest? Perhaps I am singing the wrong songs 😉
Oh goodness, it’s hard to say what’s causing the brown spots. It sounds like you’re watering is ok if you’re doing the 1 inch test. Maybe try giving them half the normal amount about a week after the full watering and see if this helps. They could have a disease or root rot that’s not related to watering though. At least adding more water might rule that possibility out? Maybe try some Beattles music:) Best of luck!
I have fiddler tree outside it taller than my house are those round balls on the tree figs, are they good to eat.
Heather,
I found your article while searching for tips for keeping a Fiddle Leaf alive. I found my guy, Hamilton, at the GROCERY STORE (say whaaaaat) for $10. It was a total fluke. He was the only one and I have never seen figs there again. Anyway, I got him about a year ago and he’s still doing great! I’ve never changed his pot. I’m a little scared to try it. I’m a certified serial plant killer as well. I would like for him to get taller though so I know he needs a bigger pot. He’s currently about 2 feet tall and in an 8″ ish pot. I’m shocked and amazed that he’s still alive and beautiful. I hope to keep him happy for a really long time.
So I love plant’s and have a pretty green thumb though years of experience killing things. I also killed paperwhites this winter.
But I am fairly successful with many, the money tree, peace lilly, spider plant and a short snake plant, I’ve even kept an afican violet alive for 10 years though it died when I tried to repot it this spring. Anyway, I’ve been using diapers or the stuff in diapers in my garden for 12-15 years and recently saw a post on fb/YouTube about using them in your houseplants I usually use 1 diaper per plant but small pots I use 1/2 to 1/3. The first one I tried it on was my sad spider and now it’s a new plant I water it about 1x a month now.
The awesome thing about using diapers is the plant has access to water when it needs it and so when you water the diaper stuff holds the water and your plant won’t drown (easily) but it doesn’t have “dry spells and can get water as it grows.
If you have any questions
love love love gardening and plants but sometimes I still kill them
Melinda
Mxburg@gmail.com good luck
That is a great tip, Melinda! I’ve never heard the diaper trick before. I’ll be trying and sharing that one with friends for sure:)
I have one that my sister gave me a couple of years ago. She had it for 2 years before giving it to me. She named him “Fred”, but after giving him to me, SHE bloomed! Has anyone ever had one to bloom? I keep her in the spare bedroom where she receives morning light and am guilty of only watering when I happen to think about it. BTW, I have since named her “Freda”.
Hello! I just found your post and it is so helpful – thank you! I just bought my first Fiddle Leaf plant. It is 4′ tall and in a 8″ growers pot. Should I leave it in there for now and repot in the spring? Or get it into a new, slightly larger pot now, before winter?
Thank you!!
Hi Heather,
Love your article. I just bought FLF 4 weeks ago but the leaves are turning bown starts at bottom. So I think its over watering.
I just purchased the miracle plant food you reccomenended but unsure of the direction. Mybplant is about 20″ – 24″ tall. Please advice how much I should feed them with this thing?
Btw, I named him Herman. My favourite hockey player Victor Herman with Tampabay Lightning. I need to learn the serenade part.
Thanks Heather.
I absolutely love your post! I have quite a few plants (20 to be exact) but my new fiddle has gotten all of my attention and concern. I’ve read 100’s of articles because I know how difficult they can be but your article has been one of my favorites! Thank you for all the advice!
P.S. I name all of my plants too
Thank you for this post, I bought a fiddle leaf a few weeks ago and love her. My kids and I named her Figgy and she is beautiful! I have a question for you since you have had yours a couple of years, does yours seem to spit brown/black spots on your walls? I wash my walls every couple of days b/c she seems to be spitting something?
Would this large size white planter with no drainage holes be good for a 53″ fiddle tree?
https://www.westelm.com/products/cement-metal-standing-planter-d4646/?cm_src=PIPRecentView
Or this 16″ planter with one drainage hole?
https://www.westelm.com/products/cityscape-planters-d987/?pkey=cplanters
I thoroughly enjoyed your optimistic writing! I work at Lowe’s in Kentucky. We’ve never, ever had one come in my store in the three years that I had been there, until two or three days ago. I was working the return desk and this man came up with one in his basket. I spotted it immediately, and my face instantly lit up, I could feel the probably creepy smile creeping up on my face. The poor little old man said do you know how big these things get? I said indeed I did and I had been looking for one for a while now. Just a little fyi, garden centers around Louisville KY the plants go from $50-$100. Lowe’s sold it for $17 and some change. Fortunately when a customer returns something at Lowe’s and an employee wants to purchase the item, since it’s been returned managers will often mark it down more for it being a return. So I got mine for $3. Talk about being in the right place at the right time. I’ve got mine in just the right sized pot that has excellent drainage and sits in front of a window that gets a little bit of light a day, probably about 4 hours of bright light in the morning. The only problem I can forsee for now would be my little kitten. He’s been just as interested in the plant as I have. Other then that though the plant seems to be enjoying his new home.
THANK YOU!!!! And wish me luck!! My poor fig (recently *just now* named Jones) is going dry and brown at the end of its leaves 😭😭. Hopefully I can save this one!! Fingers crossed!
I also have a ceramic graveyard, and i also lied to my husband about just HAVING to buy a Fiddle Leaf because it was on sale. I paid full price. way too much in fact. but it was love at first sight and i had been coveting one for so long.
and now it is a pitiful brown leaved sad boy sitting in the corner.
Do you think i can revive him?
OMG I laughed the whole time reading this. Newton looks like hes doing just fine. Im always looking at the big plants. I have had rubber tree plant for years. it was huge. well i left it out one nite in Missouri and it got frost bit and crocked. I cried. I pampered that baby. well im Moving to wisconsin and Im going to try again. Maybe I will find me a Newton. OH! I almost bought a catcus from a lady her in Missouri. But i had no way to haul it. It was gorgeous. OH well.
Good luck to you and Newton
I have had mine for over 30 years and it’s always been healthy. I agree with the not over watering. I wait until it’s totally dry and then fill until the saucer is full. It’s over 14 feet tall so it takes a full gallon of water! I have an offshoot baby as well. I put it outside this summer to get it started. The first couple of leaves fell off, but now it’s going beautifully!
Can you tell me exactly which fertilizer to use along with Superthrive Plant Vitamin Solution for my FLF? I would certainly appreciate the info.
I loved reading this post! We just moved from Seattle to Denver, bought a new home and i was dying to have a FLF tree! Luckily Home Depot had the little guys! I’m sitting in our car reading this as we drive back to take Finn (our FLF tree) home!
Thanks for making me laugh out loud and giving insightful tips!! -K | Cordially K
Hi Heather!
I’m so happy I came across your blog!
I just gor a FLF from a friend about 3 days ago and I am in love, and also so determined to take care of this one as I too have been known to kill a few plants before unfortunately 🙁
My friend gave it to me with several browning spots on a few of the leaves (mostly on the tips) and I was wondering if you knew what exactly it could be caused by or what I could do to prevent that from happening any further.
I’d really appreciate your help!!
Thank you in advance!
-Stacy (a very hopeful FLF owner!)
Love your article thank you!! I live in the Midwest and my FLF is looking sad this winter! You mentioned a humidifier! How long do you run a humidifier?
Too funny!! I’ve had amazing success with my FLF named George, he is almost two now and growing like crazy (from 3 feet now 7 feet). I think he likes Reggae music most.lol He happily stands in front of my living room window facing South. I have to disagree on the pot sizing, George is in a large pot and quite happy to stretch those roots out and has given him room to grow. I have also moved him from one room to another without any drama. I water him once a week, wipe his leaves gently with a damp cloth and spritz him once a month. I just bought two more, Jose and Maria (don’t ask)!!!!! And I live in MICHIGAN! Don’t fuss too much, they can sense it ….😱