What’s Causing my Fiddle Leaf Plant to Die?

Fiddle Leaf Fig plants have become a popular choice for indoor plants due to their beautiful and unique appearance. These plants have large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches in length, making them a stunning addition to any room. However, they are notorious for being difficult to care for, and many plant owners struggle with keeping their fiddle leaf figs alive.

If you’re one of those individuals struggling to keep your fiddle leaf fig plant healthy, there could be several reasons why your plant is dying. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of fiddle leaf fig plant death and provide tips on how to save your plant.

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common causes of fiddle leaf fig plant death. Fiddle leaf figs are sensitive to excessive moisture, and their roots can easily rot if they are consistently exposed to water. If you notice that the leaves on your plant are turning yellow or brown and falling off, this could be a sign of overwatering.

To prevent overwatering, make sure that your plant is in a well-draining pot and that you allow the soil to dry out partially before watering it again. It’s also important to avoid watering your plant on a schedule; instead, check the soil regularly and water only when it feels dry.

Underwatering

While overwatering can be detrimental to fiddle leaf fig plants, underwatering can be just as harmful. If you notice that the leaves on your plant are drooping or curling, this could be a sign of underwatering.

To prevent underwatering, make sure that you are watering your plant enough to keep the soil moist but not soaking wet. It’s also important to ensure that your plant is getting enough sunlight; if your plant isn’t getting enough light, it may not need as much water.

Lack of Sunlight

Fiddle leaf fig plants require bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, you may notice that the leaves are turning yellow, brown, or falling off. In some cases, the plant may even start to lean towards the light source.

To ensure that your plant is getting enough sunlight, place it near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight. You can also rotate your plant regularly to ensure that all sides are receiving equal amounts of light.

Lack of Humidity

Fiddle leaf fig plants are native to tropical regions and thrive in humid environments. If the air in your home is dry, your plant may struggle to absorb moisture and could become dehydrated.

To increase the humidity around your fiddle leaf fig plant, you can mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier near the plant. You can also place a tray of water near the plant to help increase humidity levels.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can also be a cause of fiddle leaf fig plant death. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and weaken the plant over time.

To prevent pests from infesting your fiddle leaf fig plant, make sure to keep the plant clean and free of dust. You can also inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests and use natural pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

FAQ

Can I save my fiddle leaf fig plant if it’s already dying?

Yes, it’s possible to save a dying fiddle leaf fig plant if you act quickly. Identify the cause of the problem and take steps to correct it, such as adjusting watering habits or increasing humidity levels. You can also prune away any dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.

How often should I fertilize my fiddle leaf fig plant?

Fiddle leaf fig plants should be fertilized every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Can I propagate my fiddle leaf fig plant?

Yes, fiddle leaf fig plants can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy branch and place it in a pot with moist soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light until the cutting starts to grow new leaves.

In conclusion, fiddle leaf fig plants can be challenging to care for, but with proper attention and care, they can thrive and become a beautiful addition to your home. By identifying the cause of your plant’s death and taking steps to correct it, you can save your fiddle leaf fig and enjoy its stunning foliage for years to come.