Fiddle Leaf Fig trees (Ficus lyrata) are increasingly popular as indoor plants in the UK, with their large, glossy leaves adding a sophisticated touch to any space. As the warm days of summer transition into the cooler months of autumn and winter, your Fiddle Leaf Fig will need some adjustments in care to keep it thriving. Here, we’ll cover the most common issues Fiddle Leaf Fig owners face during the cooler months and provide practical solutions to keep your plant looking its best.
Problem 1: Reduced Light Availability
Symptoms to Look For:
- Leaf Drop: Reduced light levels can lead to leaf drop, starting with yellowing.
- Sparse Growth: Insufficient light can cause sparse or stunted growth, with fewer new leaves appearing.
- Leaning or Stretching: When light levels are low, Fiddle Leaf Figs may lean towards light sources, resulting in uneven growth.
Solution: Place your plant near a bright window with indirect sunlight. In the shorter days of autumn and winter, consider using a supplemental grow light to keep it healthy. Regularly rotating your plant can also ensure all sides get even light, helping to prevent leaning.
Problem 2: Overwatering
Symptoms to Look For:
- Wilting Leaves: Overwatering can cause root rot, leading to wilting leaves due to a lack of oxygen.
- Yellow or Brown Leaves: Yellowing or browning leaves often indicate overwatering.
- Soggy or Mouldy Soil: Consistently wet soil can become soggy and may develop mould.
Solution: In the cooler months, Fiddle Leaf Figs require less water due to slower growth rates. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. Make sure your pot has drainage holes and uses a well-draining soil mix to prevent water from accumulating around the roots.
Problem 3: Dry Indoor Air
Symptoms to Look For:
- Brown Leaf Tips: Low humidity can cause the tips of leaves to brown and become crisp.
- Curling or Brittle Leaves: When humidity is low, leaves may start to curl or feel brittle.
- Slow Growth: Fiddle Leaf Figs may grow more slowly in dry indoor air.
Solution: Central heating in UK homes can make indoor air dry, which can stress tropical plants like Fiddle Leaf Figs. To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly, place a humidity tray beneath the plant, or use a room humidifier nearby.
Problem 4: Drafts and Temperature Changes
Symptoms to Look For:
- Wilting Leaves: Drafts and sudden temperature changes can lead to wilting.
- Leaf Damage: Exposure to cold drafts may cause leaves to curl, tear, or brown at the edges.
- Uneven Growth: Rapid temperature changes can lead to irregular growth.
Solution: Fiddle Leaf Figs are sensitive to cold drafts and temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing your plant near drafty windows, doors, or radiators, and aim to keep the temperature between 18°C and 24°C for optimal growth.
Problem 5: Nutrient Deficiency
Symptoms to Look For:
- Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing along the veins often suggests a lack of nutrients.
- Stunted Growth: Without enough nutrients, growth may slow down and leaves may be smaller.
- Discoloured Leaves: Nutrient deficiencies can cause spotting or browning.
Solution: Fiddle Leaf Figs need fewer nutrients in autumn and winter as growth naturally slows. However, feeding your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser at half strength every 2-3 months will help it stay healthy and vibrant.
Problem 6: Pests and Diseases
Symptoms to Look For:
- Spider Mites: Look for tiny pests and fine webbing on the undersides of leaves.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs appear as small, white, cotton-like clusters on leaves and stems.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects look like raised bumps on stems and leaves.
- Root Rot: Signs include yellowing leaves, wilting, and an unpleasant smell from the soil.
- Leaf Spot: Fungal infections can cause dark spots or lesions, which may lead to leaf drop.
Solution: While generally resilient, Fiddle Leaf Figs can be susceptible to pests when stressed. Check for common pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. For treatment, try natural remedies like neem oil, or use a mild insecticide if needed. Regularly clean tools and dispose of infected leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Problem 7: Leaf Drop
Symptoms to Look For:
- Yellowing Leaves: Yellow leaves can result from overwatering, underwatering, or environmental stress.
- Drooping Leaves: Drooping may indicate underwatering, overwatering, or temperature stress.
- Brown Leaf Edges: Browning edges often point to dry air, over-fertilisation, or exposure to chemicals.
Solution: Leaf drop is common in Fiddle Leaf Figs during autumn and winter as they adjust to environmental changes. Address yellowing or drooping by adjusting your watering routine, stabilising temperatures, and removing any dead leaves to promote fresh growth.
By staying mindful of these seasonal challenges and following the solutions provided, you can help your Fiddle Leaf Fig stay healthy throughout the autumn and winter months. With proper care, this stunning plant will continue to be a stylish and much-loved part of your home.
Keen to read on? Check out this blog 'Repotting Your Fiddle Leaf Fig'.