Why Fiddle Leaf Fig is Losing Leaves: Here’s Why and How to Fix It
When your fiddle leaf fig starts losing leaves, it’s easy to feel something’s gone wrong. These beautiful but sensitive plants can react to changes in light, humidity, or watering habits. The good news? Once you identify the cause, you can take steps to help your plant recover. Here are the most common reasons why your fiddle leaf fig is dropping leaves—and what you can do to fix it.
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 causes the leaves to dry and drop. The key is consistency: keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again, and always ensure your pot has proper drainage.
Want to simplify watering? Try our galvanized watering can for precise hydration without overdoing it.
The Light Struggle: Does Your Fiddle Get Enough Sun?
If your fiddle isn’t receiving enough light, it may drop leaves—especially the lower ones. Fiddle leaf figs love bright, indirect light and will struggle in dim corners.
Try moving it closer to a bright window or supplementing with a full-spectrum grow light to mimic natural sunlight.
Too much direct sun, however, can scorch the leaves—aim for balance.
Temperature & Humidity: The Jungle Factor
Fiddle leaf figs come from warm, tropical climates and don’t do well with drafts or dry indoor air. Sudden temperature changes or low humidity can shock the plant and trigger leaf drop.
Keep your fiddle away from heating vents, drafty windows, or AC units. Boost humidity by misting or placing a humidifier nearby.
Use our glass plant mister to recreate a jungle-like environment your fiddle will love.
Nutrient Needs: Feed Your Fiddle for Happy Leaves
Fiddles require nutrients to grow lush and healthy. If your plant is dropping leaves and hasn’t been fed recently, it may be nutrient-deficient.
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the active growing season to encourage healthy leaf production.
We recommend our fiddle-friendly fertilizer—a concentrated formula designed for optimal growth and leaf retention.
Root Health: The Foundation of a Strong Fiddle
Unhealthy roots often lead to leaf loss. If your pot doesn't drain properly or the soil retains too much moisture, root rot can set in—causing stress and defoliation.
Gently inspect the roots for mushy, brown sections. Trim affected roots and repot in a well-draining soil mix.
Our organic potting mix offers excellent aeration and moisture control to protect root health.
Seasonal Changes and Natural Leaf Drop
In colder seasons, fiddle leaf figs often enter a dormancy phase. It's completely normal for a few older leaves to drop during fall and winter.
Keep an eye out for new growth in spring as a sign your plant is adjusting and healthy overall.
Stress from Moving: Avoid Too Many Changes
Fiddle leaf figs thrive on stability. If you’ve recently moved your plant, changed pots, or shifted its position, it may respond with leaf loss.
Once you find a good location with proper light and humidity, leave your fiddle there so it can settle and thrive.
Conclusion: Bringing Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Back to Health
Watching your fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves can be discouraging—but recovery is possible. By identifying the cause—whether it's watering, lighting, or temperature—and adjusting your care routine, your plant can bounce back stronger than ever.
Explore our full collection of Fiddle Leaf Figs and houseplant care essentials to give your plant the support it needs to thrive.
