Why Fiddle Leaf Fig is Losing Leaves: Here’s Why and How to Fix It
When you find your fiddle leaf fig losing leaves, it’s natural to wonder what’s going wrong. Fiddles are a bit like drama queens – sensitive to just about everything, from watering to humidity. But don’t worry; once you know what to look for, you can fix it. Here are the most common causes for your fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves and the simple steps to bring it back to life.
Watering Woes: Is Too Much or Too Little to Blame?
Watering issues are the most common reason for a fiddle leaf fig losing leaves. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little makes the leaves dry and brittle. The key? Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
For best results, stick to a watering routine, and let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
Want to make watering easy? Try our galvanized watering can, designed for precise pouring and plant-perfect hydration.
The Light Struggle: Does Your Fiddle Get Enough Sun?
If your fiddle leaf fig isn’t getting enough light, it will start dropping leaves from the bottom up. Fiddles need lots of bright, indirect light to stay happy. If you notice your fiddle dropping leaves, consider moving it to a brighter spot near a window or adding a grow light to its space.
Keep in mind that too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so try to strike a balance.
Our full-spectrum grow light is perfect for boosting indoor light when the sun just doesn’t cut it.
Temperature & Humidity: The Jungle Factor
Fiddle leaf figs are tropical plants, so they crave warm, humid environments. If you’re seeing your fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves, it might be due to low humidity or fluctuating temperatures. Keep your fiddle away from drafts, air vents, and heating elements, as these can stress your plant and lead to leaf loss.
For extra humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby.
Bring the jungle home with our plant mister – perfect for giving your fiddle the tropical touch it needs!
Nutrient Needs: Feed Your Fiddle for Happy Leaves
Another reason for your fiddle leaf fig losing leaves could be nutrient deficiency. Like us, plants need nutrients to thrive, and fiddles are no exception. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help prevent nutrient-related leaf drop, keeping leaves lush and green.
Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for fiddle leaf figs to avoid any nutrient imbalances that could lead to more leaf drop.
Check out our fiddle-friendly plant fertilizer, specially designed to keep your plant in peak condition.
Root Health: The Foundation of a Strong Fiddle
Healthy roots are essential for a thriving fiddle leaf fig. Poor drainage or root rot can cause serious issues, making the plant drop its leaves as a response to stress. Make sure your fiddle is in a pot with good drainage and use well-draining soil to prevent root issues.
If root rot is a concern, carefully check your plant’s roots, trim any mushy parts, and repot with fresh soil.
Our fiddle leaf fig soil mix provides just the right balance of moisture and aeration for healthy roots. It's great for other houseplants, like Snake Plants and Pothos, too!
Seasonal Changes and Natural Leaf Drop
Sometimes, a fiddle leaf fig will lose leaves simply due to seasonal changes. In fall and winter, plants often go into a period of dormancy, which can lead to some natural leaf drop. This is normal, so don’t stress if you see one or two leaves dropping off as the seasons shift.
Check for new growth in spring as a sign that your fiddle is still healthy and adjusting to the changes.
Stress from Moving: Avoid Too Many Changes
Fiddle leaf figs are creatures of habit and don’t take well to frequent changes in their environment. Moving your plant to a new spot, especially one with different light or temperature, can shock it, resulting in leaf drop. Once you find a good spot, try to leave it there so it can adjust and thrive.
Conclusion: Bringing Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Back to Health
Seeing your fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves can be alarming, but with a little patience and the right care, it can bounce back. From consistent watering to providing ideal light and humidity, giving your fiddle what it needs will help it hold onto those prized leaves. Follow these tips, and soon enough, you’ll be back to admiring your fiddle leaf fig in all its leafy glory.
