Fiddle leaf figs: Fix yellowing, drooping leaves, brown spots in your plant with the right love and care

One of the most frequent issues you may notice with you fiddle leaf fig is yellowing leaves. This usually starts with the lower leaves and is often caused by overwatering (Image: Canva)

Fiddle leaf figs have big glossy leaves and have become a favourite among social media influencers. If you too have this plant and are struggling with its upkeep, there’s help. Fiddle leaf figs or the ficus lyrate have a striking appearance and can elevate any space, but they can be fussy and are sensitive to changes in their environment.

If you notice yellowing leaves or drooping branches, take a good look at your plant care schedule and identify the cause of the issue. Here’s a guide to the most common problems in growing fiddle leaf figs, how to spot them, and the best ways to fix them.

• Yellowing leaves: A sign of overwatering

One of the most frequent issues you may notice with you fiddle leaf fig is yellowing leaves. This usually starts with the lower leaves and is often caused by overwatering. When the soil is consistently wet or doesn’t drain properly, the roots can rot, making it difficult for the plant to absorb nutrients.

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To address this, check the soil’s moisture by inserting your finger or using a moisture meter. If the soil feels soggy, let it dry out before watering again. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes and empty any standing water in the saucer. If you notice the roots are black or mushy, it’s a sign of root rot, and you may need to repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.

• Brown spots and edges: Dehydration or fungal infections

Other common issues include brown spotting or edges on the leaves. Brown spots generally appear due to inconsistent watering or fungal infections, while crispy brown edges usually denote low humidity or dehydration.

To get rid of brown spots, develop a regular watering schedule, allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this encourages fungi to breed.

If brown edges are the issue, try increasing the humidity around your plant by misting the leaves, placing a tray of water and pebbles nearby, or using a humidifier. Additionally, trimming damaged leaves can help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

• Drooping leaves: A sign of watering problems or changes in environment

Drooping leaves can also mean your fiddle leaf fig might be a result of over- or underwatering, or sudden changes around it. In case the soil is too dry, water the plant properly, but make sure to drain out the excessive water. Contrarily, let the wet, heavy soil also get some time to dry out completely before trying again.

Drooping can also occur at the change of place and drafts. To avoid this, make sure that the fiddle leaf fig plant is in a comfortable, warm place and not near any cold window or air conditioning vent.

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• Leaf loss: Recovering from shock

Finally, leaf loss can be alarming for fiddle leaf fig owners, especially when it happens suddenly. This is often caused by shock due to environmental changes, such as a drop in temperature, low light, or being repotted. To help your plant recover, place it in a location with bright, indirect light and maintain a consistent temperature. Avoid moving the plant frequently and give it time to adjust to its surroundings. Proper care and patience are key to reviving a stressed fiddle leaf fig.

• Keep your fiddle leaf fig thriving

Fiddle leaf figs may be high-maintenance, but their beauty makes the effort worthwhile. With the right care and attention, even the most finicky fiddle leaf fig can flourish.