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The Fiddle Leaf Indoor Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
Welcome to the world of indoor gardening, where nature meets creativity.
As a gardener, you understand the joy of seeing your plants grow from tiny seedlings into beautiful blossoms.
However, there’s one plant that has captured the hearts of many indoor gardeners – the fiddle leaf fig.
What is a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Ficus lyrata, commonly known as a fiddle leaf fig or simply FLF, is an ornamental tree native to Western Africa.
It features large leaves with a distinct violin shape that can grow up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide.
FLFs are popular among indoor garden enthusiasts due to their aesthetic appeal and air-purifying properties.
They’re also versatile and can thrive in various environments such as homes, offices or businesses.
Caring for Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
While FLFs are often touted as low maintenance plants by some sources on social media platforms like Instagram, this isn’t quite accurate.
In fact they require specific care in order for them to thrive indoors.
Watering Your FLF:
- Your FLF requires regular watering but be careful not overwater it!
- Avoid using tap water with high levels of fluoride which can cause brown edges on your plant’s leaves
- To check if you need to water your plant look out for signs such as drooping leaves or dry soil at least once per week
- If watering seems like too much effort consider purchasing self-watering pots which are ideal for busy people who want their plants taken care of without having do it themselves!
Lighting Requirements:
- FLFs require bright, indirect light to grow.
Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause leaf burn.
Humidity:
- The natural habitat of FLFs has a high level of humidity so they need adequate moisture to thrive indoors.
Use a humidifier or place your plant near the shower/bathroom/kitchen area and keep the soil moist to help maintain optimal growth conditions for your plant
Fertilization:
- FLFs require regular feeding with balanced and complete fertilizers for optimum growth.
Feed every two weeks during growing season and every four weeks in winter months.
Potting Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Your FLF should be in a pot that’s not too small or too big, but just right for its size; ideally one that has drainage holes at the bottom.
You can use terracotta pots which are porous and can absorb excess water which helps prevent root rot from overwatering.. Alternatively, you may choose self-watering pots specifically designed with adequate drainage systems to ensure proper air circulation around your plants’ roots without flooding them.
Troubleshooting Common Issues With Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Brown spots on leaves: This is typically caused by exposure to direct sunlight or fluoride found in tap water.
Ensure you follow our earlier advice about lighting requirements and avoid using tap water when watering your plants
Dropping leaves: If this happens it could mean your plant needs more water so check if soil dryness is causing this problem
Fungus gnats: These are small black flies that feed on your plants soil and can be a sign of overwatering.
Conclusion
The fiddle leaf fig is one of the most popular indoor plants due to its beauty, air-purifying qualities, and versatility.
By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure your FLF thrives indoors for years to come.
Remember to check for signs of under or overwatering, place it in bright but indirect sunlight and use self-watering pots if necessary.
With these precautions taken care of, you will have a healthy plant that adds life to any indoor space.