Fiddle-leaf fig care: watering, light and repotting
Also called fiddle leaf fig, fiddle fig · Ficus lyrata · Moraceae family
14 d in winter
How often to water the fiddle-leaf fig?
Allow about 8 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 14 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Hates being moved and draughts. Wipe its large leaves so they catch the light.
What light does it need?
The fiddle-leaf fig loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 5–10 ft (1.5–3 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Brown spots in the middle of leaves
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Let half the pot dry out before watering.
Dropping leaves
Cause: A new spot or cold. What to do: Keep it in the same place, away from doors and radiators.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the fiddle-leaf fig?
About every 8 days in spring and summer, and every 2 weeks in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the fiddle-leaf fig?
The fiddle-leaf fig loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the fiddle-leaf fig?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the fiddle-leaf fig?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the fiddle-leaf fig safe?
The fiddle-leaf fig is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the fiddle-leaf fig needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.